Child Custody Lawyers in Lake Wylie, SC, Advocating on Behalf of Parents and Children
Child custody can be one of the most contentious issues parents encounter when they choose to separate and go their own way. Of course, parents typically want what is best for their children, but often this idea gets lost as parents try to come to an agreement about custody issues. Fighting and contention only make the legal process of deciding child custody that much more challenging and stressful for the children.
However, with the assistance of an experienced child custody lawyer, they can help you obtain a favorable resolution. If you are still anxious about dealing with child custody issues, contact Johannesmeyer & Sawyer, PLLC of Lake Wylie, South Carolina, immediately. We will gladly schedule a consultation to discuss your case and learn what legal options may be available.
Does a Mother Automatically Get Custody of a Child?
South Carolina does not favor either parent when determining child custody issues. Instead, the family court will thoroughly evaluate various factors to determine who will obtain child custody and what type of custody will be granted. It is vital to remember that a family court judge will always consider what is in the child’s best interests.
Some of the most common determinants that judges focus on when deciding child custody include:
- The ability of each party to meet the child’s emotional and physical health.
- Each parent’s willingness to have child custody.
- Any history of child abuse or domestic violence on the part of either parent.
- Each parent’s willingness to encourage and foster a relationship with the other parent.
- Each parent’s financial ability to care for the child.
- The child’s educational and community history.
- The child’s preference
- Any history of either parent making disparaging remarks about the other parent.
These are just some of the factors the court will consider when determining child custody. In addition, our law firm’s child custody lawyers can evaluate your situation and provide you with more information on how to increase your chances of obtaining custody.
What are the Types of Child Custody Arrangements in South Carolina?
One type of child custody arrangement is joint physical custody, where the parents share physical custody. Typically in this arrangement, the parent shares time with the child, with one parent maintaining the child’s primary residence and the other having visitation time.
The parent who maintains the child’s primary residence is known as the custodial parent, and the other is the non-custodial parent. Neither parent has more rights than the other, and both are legally entitled to make significant decisions for the child. This type of arrangement provides the child with a sense of stability and security living in one residence.
Another type of child custody arrangement is sole physical custody. This is when one parent has physical custody of the child, and the other parent has only visitation rights. The custodial parent is the one who makes major decisions for the child, such as education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. Generally, this type of arrangement occurs if one parent is deemed to be unfit or unable to care for the child due to underlying factors.
What Can I Do if the Other Parent is Not Honoring the Parenting Plan?
If your child’s other parent is not abiding by the court’s custody order, you can file a Motion for Contempt. If an individual violates an order handed down by the court, they can be held in contempt.
If the other parent is not following the parenting plan, you must keep a detailed record of dates, times, and a description of what occurred. This record will prove to be invaluable when presenting evidence to the court.
Contact Johannesmeyer & Sawyer, PLLC of York County, South Carolina are also ready to assist parents in holding the other party accountable for their actions and gladly assist you with your legal needs.
What Type of Results Can I Expect From Your Child Custody Attorneys?
Our law firm is passionately committed to working alongside parents to help them obtain a child custody arrangement that meets their needs. If we agree to take your case, we will listen to your side of the story and help you understand all the factors used to determine child custody.
Our child custody attorneys recognize that this is a difficult time for all parties involved and will work diligently to create an arrangement favorable to each individual’s needs. If you still have unanswered questions or are unsure how to proceed with your child custody case, our legal team can answer your questions and provide the support you need to find a resolution.
Contact Johannesmeyer & Sawyer, PLLC, by calling 803-266-1410 and asking to schedule a consultation immediately.