If you are going through a divorce or separation, you may have to work out child custody arrangements with your ex-partner. These discussions can be emotionally draining and they often require a lot of work to reach an agreement. A St. Louis child custody lawyer can help you understand the laws in your state and provide legal advice to help you come up with a custody arrangement that is in your best interest.
A reputable attorney can help you decide whether mediation or litigation is the right route for your case. Mediation is a process where a neutral third party facilitates the discussion between both parents in order to find a solution. It is often less costly and more convenient than taking your case to court.
In Missouri, the decision of who gets custody of a child revolves around what is in the best interests of the children involved. This includes how each parent can maintain a healthy relationship with the child and whether the child will be safe in either home. It also considers how the children will be able to spend time with other important people in their lives such as grandparents and aunts and uncles.
Child support is another area of family law that requires the guidance of an experienced attorney. The amount of child support you must pay or receive depends on several factors including how much money each parent makes, what type of living arrangement the couple has and any special needs that your child might have. In most cases, the parent who has primary physical custody of your child will also be required to pay child support. The amount of child support you pay or receive will be determined by using a form provided by the state which takes into account both parties’ monthly gross income, as well as their child care expenses and health insurance costs.
Having an experienced attorney on your side can make all the difference when working out a custody and visitation agreement. Your attorney will be able to explain the terms of your agreement in ways that you can understand and make sure you fully comprehend them. A lawyer can also protect your rights in negotiations and ensure that your interests are taken into consideration when a judge makes a final ruling.
Langley Law Firm handles family-related issues for clients in the St. Louis area including divorce, spousal and child support, and custody and visitation. The law firm also helps its clients modify existing family court judgments. Principal attorney Brian Langley works to educate and communicate with his clients so that they feel confident during the divorce process. The firm also represents clients in guardianships and adoptions. Its attorneys have over thirty years of industry experience and they stress the importance of communication with their clients.
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