Before anyone attempts to design a custody order, there are several things a parent should consider. It’s helpful when the parents are able to sit down and design a custody order that works for everyone involved. The details of the plan should include a parenting time schedule that outlines who the child will spend time with every day of the year. Transportation arrangements and drop-off points should be established and so should holiday and vacation times. The order should also determine how a parent can contact a child when they’re with the other parent. These situations can become confusing, and that’s why a custody lawyer in Douglasville, GA should be contacted.
Can a Custody Order Be Changed?
Once a custody order is established, it can be difficult to change unless there’s a significant change in the family’s circumstances. Establishing a custody order right the first time with the help of a custody lawyer in Douglasville, GA will reduce many problems in the future. Every two years, the family court might review and modify visitation rights.
Sole Custody
It is uncommon for a judge to grant sole custody of a child because they prefer that a child builds a bond with each parent. Sole custody is usually only awarded when there are situations involving severe alcohol abuse, sexual or physical abuse, drug abuse, or any other type of conduct by one of the parents that could harm the child. Sole custody does not ban a parent from having visitation with their child unless it’s ordered by the court.
Joint Custody
The court system likes to award joint custody when the parents are able to work together on behalf of their child. This provides an arrangement where the parents split parenting time equally and are both involved in major decisions that affect a child’s life. In some situations, a judge might award primary custody, where a parent has the majority of the time.
Establishing a child custody order takes careful planning with a family law attorney. The laws can be complicated, and the attorney will be knowledgeable about the changes. For more information, please visit Website Domain.