Child custody arrangements are usually the result of a divorce decree or custody arrangement. Sometimes two unmarried parents have reached the agreement in accordance with what they deem to be the best way to raise their child. When these arrangements are agreed to, they are often made based on the current conditions surrounding the parents and the child. In short, what this means is that child custody arrangements can become less beneficial over time, either for a parent or the child. If conditions change, the child custody arrangement may need to be modified in order to better address the child’s best interests.
Sometimes, two parents may not agree upon what is the best custody arrangement for their child. Whether it be joint custody with visitation, sole legal and physical custody, or even the amount of parenting time available to each parent, disputes over child custody arrangements can arise. Since circumstances can change for a parent and/or a child, it can be best to advocate for the child custody arrangement that you believe to be a better fit for your child. Whether a change in custody supports the best interests of the child can make or break a case.
This is because the best interests of the child are the most important factor considered in child custody arrangements. For example, a divorce settlement could award joint legal and physical custody to both parents. But if one parent suddenly became addicted to drugs or exhibited violent behaviors, then a modification to sole custody for the non-offending parent may be better for the child’s health and safety.
There is a reason you and your child’s father or mother are not together. However, you still have to come together to raise your child. Even if you two do not see eye-to-eye, the court can help decide the arrangement that is best for the child. Change can be beneficial and very necessary for some child custody arrangements that are not functioning efficiently, but those who feel this is the case need to make a compelling argument to the court. This is where the assistance of an experienced family law attorney, like those at Terzich & Ort can be beneficial.
