Understanding Child Custody During Your Divorce

– Guidance from a Leading Divorce Lawyer in Bossier City

Divorcing a spouse is a tough, heartbreaking decision. Gone are the years of happiness and the bond between partners. It is even harder for children who might wonder if they are the reason for their parent’s marital demise. Fighting for custody only heightens the anxiety of your split.

As you and your spouse work on dividing up the silver, consideration for the care of the children must take center stage. You need to determine if the children will reside with both parents part of the time, or if one of you should have sole custody. Louisiana courts will consider the custodial arrangement plan you create. In the event you two cannot agree, the court will decide for you.

Navigating the Louisiana family law requires an experienced attorney. When you contact experienced divorce lawyer David L. White in Bossier City, you will get the representation you need to protect your parental rights, and make the right decision for your children.

Understand Louisiana’s Child Custody Basics

There are a few definitions and factors that you need to know when facing a divorce in Louisiana with children involved.

Three types of custody
There are three basic types of custody: sole, joint, and shared.

  • Sole Custody: This refers to only one parent having custody, with the other parent having visitation. This is granted where the non-custodial parent is proven to have abused the child.

  • Join Custody: This refers to both parties having custody, with one parent being designated the domiciliary parent. Both parties are to confer on major decisions affecting the minor child. In the event of a dispute, the wishes of the domiciliary parent prevail.

  • Shared Custody: This refers to both parties having equal time with the children and both make major decisions concerning the children. If a dispute arises,the court will decide.

Fitness of Parents
Ideally, the courts prefer a divorcing couple to determine child custody arrangements amicably. When that does not happen, the court then must decide for the parents. Factors that are considered include:

  • The relationship between the children and their parents
  • Which parent has taken care of the children historically
  • The ability of each parent to provide for and give guidance to the child
  • The ability of each parent to encourage a relationship between the children and the other parent
  • The moral, mental, and physical health of the parents
  • If the child is of age, their wishes may be considered

Keep in mind that your custodial arrangements are not permanent. Circumstances can change dictating that a new agreement may be necessary. A family law attorney helps you make the best arrangements for your circumstances.

Hire an Experienced Divorce Lawyer in Bossier City, Louisiana

Learn more about your parental rights with David L. White. The legal professionals at our law practice will provide you with reliable, discreet guidance for your custodial needs.

Contact your divorce lawyer in Bossier City to find out more about handling custody as you finalize your divorce in Louisiana. Call us today at 318-747-7023.