Knowledgeable Pickens Lawyers Aid Parents with Child Custody Matters
South Carolina attorneys work on issues of legal authority and residence
Divorce is not easy on children, but parents who are committed to the best interests of their child or children, and have the right legal support, can work out a custody arrangement that promotes cooperation and a supportive environment for their children. At Acker Lambert Hinton P.A. in Pickens, we are experienced, creative family lawyers who guide South Carolina clients on parenting time schedules, legal authority and related concerns.
Dedicated advocates pursue fair terms for legal and physical custody
It’s important to remember that parents likely will have to cooperate for many years after a divorce for the sake of their children. Our seasoned family law attorneys keep that in mind when addressing matters concerning:
- Physical custody — We look at many factors when setting terms about where a child will live, including the child’s ability to maintain their existing routine. If parents live near each other, joint physical custody is possible and preferable, where the youth spends time in both homes during the week.
- Legal custody — Usually, parents share legal custody so that each has a say in key decisions regarding their child’s education, religion, medical treatment and legal rights.
- Child support — Both parents are legally responsible for meeting the financial needs of their sons and daughters. You can rely on us for knowledgeable counsel on the establishment of initial child support terms, as well as modification and enforcement actions.
Though parenting issues are usually resolved best by consensus. Mediation can be a very effective tool for parents as they seek to preserve their children’s well-being and the stability of their lives during the turbulent process of divorce. Mediation can take some of the stress out of child custody conflicts and puts important child rearing decisions in the hands of the parents rather than the court. In some cases, however, litigation is necessary, and if so, we are well equipped to argue in court for custody terms that are in your child’s best interests.
Firm serving PICKENS, Greenville and Easley negotiates visitation schedules
Both parents should have the opportunity to spend significant time with their son or daughter. A parent who does not receive physical custody is usually given visitation rights as part of the custody order. Our attorneys look to draw up detailed schedules that address parenting time on weeknights, weekends, on holidays and during school vacations. Should a visitation question go before the court, the judge will make a decision based on the child’s best interests. In rare instances, the court might grant visitation rights to a grandparent or another third party if that person had a parent-like relationship with the child for a period of time and is being denied access to them.
Modifying a custody order
Should you seek a change to existing custody terms, it is best to petition the court for a modification to the order rather than relying on an informal agreement with your ex-spouse. To justify a revision, there must be a material change in circumstances and the proposed modification must be in the child’s best interests. Our firm represents parents seeking changes as well as those opposing them. In some cases, a parent might seek a revision to improve their son or daughter’s educational opportunities. Other times, a modification is sought because a parent is putting the child in danger or refusing to abide by visitation terms.
Thorough attorneys assist parents with relocation requests
Job changes, new relationships, family illnesses and other life events might compel a custodial parent to move to a new home. South Carolina courts typically allow relocations to occur within the state unless there is a compelling reason to block the move. However, a mother or father who wishes to relocate with their child outside the state must obtain consent from their co-parent or court approval. If an agreement cannot be reached, courts look at the reason for the move, how it might affect the child and if visitation terms can be revised to make visitation easier for the noncustodial parent.
Contact a South Carolina child custody lawyer to arrange a consultation
Acker Lambert Hinton P.A. represents South Carolina clients in child custody matters. Our office is in Pickens and we advise residents of Greenville, Easley and all area communities. To schedule a consultation, please call 864-668-1013 or contact us online.
