Child Custody Lawyer in Sterling Heights

For parents going through a divorce, child custody is the issue they are usually worried about the most. Child custody hearings are a part of any divorce that involves minor children, and the fact of the matter is that neither parent will end up spending as much time with their child once the divorce is over. This only adds to the stressful and emotional process of divorce. 

Decisions made in child custody cases in Michigan will depend on your own ability to work with your spouse to reach an agreement and the laws of the state. When you work with a child custody lawyer in Sterling Heights, you will have an advocate who will uphold your rights and help you secure the best possible outcome.

Creating a Child Custody Agreement

In the best situations, divorcing spouses can reach an agreement about child custody on their own, without involving the court. Options such as mediation can help you and your spouse reach an agreement. Creating an agreement on your own has many benefits over litigating the matter. It allows you to retain control of the decision so you and your spouse can both benefit from the agreement. Reaching an agreement on your own can also help keep conflict out of the situation, which can make it easier to co-parent once the divorce is final.

Unfortunately, reaching an agreement with your spouse is not always possible or practical. For example, when there is a history of domestic violence between the couple, it is unlikely they would reach an agreement on child custody issues. If you and your spouse cannot agree on child custody issues, the court will decide. A judge will take many factors into consideration when they are making their decision, but they will all be in what is in the best interests of the child.

Regardless of whether you and your spouse reach an agreement on your own, or you let the court decide, the decision is final and legally binding. You can modify a child custody order in the future in some situations, but you need the court’s permission to do it.

What are the Best Interests of the Child?

There are 12 factors taken into consideration when child custody decisions are made in Sterling Heights. These include:

• The relationship the child has with each parent,
• The capability of each parent to provide love, guidance, affection, and education,
• The capability of each parent to provide for the basic needs of the child,
• How long the child has lived in a stable environment
• The permanence of the custodial home
• The moral character of each parent
• The mental and physical health of the parents
• The relationship between the child, their community, school, and home
• The child’s preference, when they are of a certain age and maturity
• The willingness of each parent to foster a good relationship between the other parent and the child
• Any prior history of domestic violence, and
• Any other relevant factor

A child custody lawyer in Sterling Heights can further explain these factors and how they apply to your case.

Call Our Sterling Heights Child Custody Lawyers Today

If you are going through a divorce that involves children, our child custody lawyers in Sterling Heights can advise on your case. At Iafrate & Salassa, we know the challenging issues you are facing, and how to overcome them. Call us today or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.