Child Custody Lawyers Pittsburgh

Protecting Your Child's Best Interests

Child custody in a Pittsburgh divorce directly impacts the lives of the children involved and defines their future well-being. At Very Law in Pittsburgh, we are dedicated to successfully representing the interests of custodial and non-custodial parents with the utmost commitment to the best interests of the child. We believe in amicable solutions whenever possible to minimize conflict and create a stable environment for children during and after the divorce process.

Types of Child Custody in Pittsburgh, PA

In Pennsylvania, child custody is determined based on the best interests of the child, and several types of custody arrangements can be established. The relevant statutes governing child custody in Pennsylvania include the Pennsylvania Child Custody Act (23 Pa.C.S. Chapter 53) and the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure (Rule 1915.1 et seq.). Here are the main types of child custody recognized in Pennsylvania:

Physical Custody 

Physical custody refers to the physical possession of the child. It can be shared between both parents or granted to one parent. Shared physical custody can be further divided into primary and partial physical custody based on the amount of time the child spends with each parent.

Legal Custody 

Legal custody relates to the right and responsibility to make important decisions regarding the child's upbringing, including matters related to education, healthcare, religion, and extracurricular activities. Legal custody can be awarded jointly to both parents or solely to one parent.

Primary Custody 

Primary custody typically refers to the parent with whom the child primarily resides and spends the majority of their time. It may also imply that the primary custodial parent has a greater say in making day-to-day decisions for the child.

Partial Custody 

Partial custody means that one parent has the right to spend a specified amount of time with the child, typically during weekends, holidays, or other scheduled visitation times. This is common in shared physical custody arrangements.

Visitation Rights 

In cases where one parent does not have physical custody, they are typically granted visitation rights to maintain a meaningful relationship with the child. Visitation schedules can be established by the court or through negotiation.

Supervised Custody 

In situations where there are concerns about the child's safety or well-being when in the care of one parent, the court may order supervised custody. This means that visitation or custodial time is supervised by a neutral third party or a supervised visitation center.

Third-Party Custody 

In some cases, a third party, such as a grandparent or another relative, may seek custody of the child. Pennsylvania law allows for third-party custody petitions when it is deemed in the best interests of the child.

High emotional stakes are involved in custody matters. Our Pittsburgh child custody attorneys are determined to protect your rights as a parent and uphold the best interests of your child in this profound family law matter.

What Factors will Our Lawyers Take Into Account While Negotiating a Parenting Plan on Your Behalf?

When negotiating a parenting plan on your behalf, our Pittsburgh child custody attorneys at Very Law understand that several crucial factors must be considered to ensure the plan aligns with your needs and your child's best interests.

• Child's Age and Development: Our lawyers recognize that the needs of a toddler differ from those of a teenager. We consider your child's age and stage of development when crafting a parenting plan that is age-appropriate and supportive of their growth.
• School and Extracurricular Activities: We consider your child's school schedule, academic commitments, and involvement in extracurricular activities. The plan will accommodate these responsibilities to ensure academic progress and participation in hobbies.
• Healthcare and Special Needs: If your child has any specific healthcare needs or special requirements, our legal team will factor these into the plan, ensuring they receive the necessary care and support.
• Work Schedules: We consider both parents' work schedules and commitments to create a visitation plan that allows for consistent and meaningful parenting time while accommodating employment responsibilities.
• Geographic Location: The location of each parent's residence is a key consideration. Our child custody lawyers in Pittsburgh strive to create a plan that minimizes disruptions and travel time for your child.
• Holiday and Vacation Arrangements: We address holiday, vacation, and special occasion visitation schedules to ensure that both parents have the opportunity to spend quality time with their child during these important moments.
• Flexibility: We advocate for a parenting plan that offers flexibility to accommodate unforeseen circumstances or changes in either parent's schedule, promoting cooperation and co-parenting success.
• Conflict Resolution: Our lawyers are skilled in conflict resolution techniques to help resolve disputes efficiently and amicably, reducing stress and tension during negotiations.
• Legal Compliance: We ensure that the parenting plan aligns with Pennsylvania family law regulations and legal requirements, protecting your parental rights while promoting your child's welfare.

How Our Child Custody Lawyers in Pittsburgh will Ensure Your Custody or Visitation Rights are Protected

When it comes to safeguarding your rights, our child custody attorneys have a client-focused approach.

• Thorough Case Assessment: Our lawyers will begin by conducting a comprehensive assessment of your case, understanding your unique circumstances, and identifying your custody or visitation objectives.
• Negotiation: If possible, we will pursue amicable negotiations with the co-parent to reach a mutually agreeable custody or visitation arrangement. Our goal is to preserve your child's best interests while securing your rights as a parent.
• Documented Evidence: To support your case, we gather compelling evidence, including witness testimonies, character references, parenting plans, and any documentation that substantiates your ability to provide a stable, loving, and supportive environment for your child.
• Child's Best Interests: We always advocate for arrangements that center on your child's well-being. We will present a strong case that demonstrates your commitment to your child's welfare.
• Court Representation: If negotiations fail or court intervention is necessary, we will represent you vigorously in court. Our trial lawyers have the courtroom skills and resources to present your case with professionalism and diligence to secure a favorable custody or visitation order.
• Post-Judgment Modifications: If circumstances change after the custody order, we assist in pursuing post-judgment modifications to adapt to new situations while protecting your rights.

Get Strong Legal Representation from Our Dedicated Pittsburgh Child Custody Attorneys

At Very Law, our experienced child custody lawyers in Pittsburgh are committed to providing you with steadfast support and advocacy. Our singular goal is to protect your rights as a parent while ensuring that your child's best interests remain at the forefront of all custody or visitation decisions. Reach out to our Pittsburgh family law attorneys for your legal needs.  Call Very Law today at 412-430-0131 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.