Comprehensive Solutions For Arizona Child Custody Matters

Child custody is a sensitive and complex issue. It refers to the legal rights and responsibilities of parents to care for and make decisions about their children. As a seasoned attorney in Arizona law, I understand the emotional and legal challenges that come with child custody disputes.

At Glickstein Law, PLLC, I offer a supportive environment where you can be open about your situation. Whether you are in Scottsdale, Phoenix or elsewhere in Arizona, I am here to help. As your child custody attorney, I will work with you to develop a strategy that prioritizes your child’s well-being.

I serve clients from all walks of life, and my payment plans are designed to be fair and affordable. With over 15 years of professional legal experience, I am committed to providing personalized counsel that meets your unique needs.

How Is Child Custody Determined In Arizona?

When it comes to determining child custody in Arizona, the court may order a child custody arrangement or parents can work out an agreement themselves. If parents cannot agree, the court will step in to decide. In either case, the goal is to create a custody arrangement that serves the best interests of the child.

Here are some key factors that Arizona courts consider when determining custody:

• The child’s relationship with each parent
• The child’s wishes, if they are old enough to express them
• The child’s physical, emotional and psychological needs
• The parents’ ability to cooperate and communicate effectively
• Any history of domestic violence, child abuse or substance abuse
• The geographic location of each parent’s home

In Arizona, child custody laws involve two main components: legal decision-making and parenting time. Legal decision-making refers to the authority to make important decisions about the child’s life, such as education and health care. Meanwhile, parenting time refers to the actual time each parent spends with the child.

Child Custody: Complications And Modifications

Child custody arrangements can be complicated, and family law issues can arise over determining it. Some common complications of child custody include the following:

• Relocation: A parent wants to move out of state or a significant distance with the child, which impacts the existing visitation schedule.
• Noncompliance: A noncustodial parent or the custodial parent does not follow the rules of the custody agreement.
• Temporary orders: A significant change, such as a parent’s new job or a domestic emergency, necessitates a petition for temporary orders to protect the child.
• Contested custody: When parents are unable to reach an agreement on a custody matter, it can lead to a contested custody case where a judge must make the final determination.
• Parental alienation: One parent’s manipulative behavior undermines the child’s relationship with the other parent, often requiring a custody evaluation and judicial intervention.

After a divorce or legal separation, child custody arrangements may need to be modified. A major life event, such as remarriage, a change in employment or a serious mental health issue, can impact the original court order for child custody as well as child support and spousal maintenance.

This can happen if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a parent’s relocation or a change in the child’s needs. I can help you navigate the child custody modification process, which begins with a petition to the family court and may involve mediation to reach an agreement that a judge will review and approve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Child Custody

Child custody issues are some of the most emotionally intense situations parents can face. Here are the answers to some of the biggest concerns.

What are my parental rights?

As a parent, you have the right to the legal and physical custody of your child. Legal custody refers to a parent’s capacity to make important decisions about a child’s education, religion and medical treatments. Physical custody refers to a parent’s ability to be with a child, and it may refer to various visitation agreements.

In Arizona, unmarried mothers automatically have full parental rights over a child, while unmarried fathers must establish paternity before they can seek custody or visitation and participate in their child’s upbringing.

Is it possible to get sole custody?

Yes. However, sole custody is only given to a parent when it is in a child’s best interests. In general, the courts tend to prefer joint custody arrangements, so obtaining sole custody requires

clear proof that the other parent is somehow unfit.

Situations that might warrant sole custody include those where a parent has a drug or alcohol addiction, has been abusive or neglectful, is severely mentally ill or has abandoned the child.

Under what circumstances can I get an emergency child custody order?

An emergency child custody order may be granted if a child is in imminent danger of serious harm from their other parent. Situations that typically warrant an emergency child custody order include severe neglect, parental alcohol or drug abuse, domestic violence by the parent or in the home, or a risk of parental abduction or abandonment.

I can help parents get an emergency child custody order to protect the safety and well-being of their child.

Can a child choose which parent to live with in a custody case?

In Arizona, a child cannot choose which parent to live with, but their wishes must be considered so long as the child is mature enough to articulate intelligent reasoning. Ultimately, the court must make the decision based on the child’s overall best interests, not any one specific factor.

Consult A Child Custody Attorney To Protect Your Parental Rights

If you are facing a child custody dispute, it is essential to take informed action. As a skilled child custody lawyer, I can help you understand your rights and options under Arizona law. Don’t try to navigate this complex process alone – hire an attorney who will advocate for your parental rights and your child’s well-being. Contact my firm today at 602-842-0887 or through my online form to schedule your free 30-minute consultation.