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When going through a divorce involving children, it is often tremendously difficult to reach custody agreements that work for you, your ex-partner, and your kids. When disputes simply cannot be resolved out of court, the matter may be taken before a judge. In Kentucky, courts generally acknowledge that it is important for both parents to remain actively involved in their child’s life. Accordingly, there is a strong tendency to award joint custody. In fact, sole custody is typically only granted when it can be shown that one parent presents a direct danger to a child’s safety. Our Louisville family law attorneys are dedicated to assisting families through all aspects of child custody agreements and modifications to custody.
Questions about joint custody? Contact us online and discover your legal options.
“Joint custody” is a term that typically denotes two different parental responsibilities: physical custody and legal custody. Physical custody refers to the physical location and parent who looks after the child. On the other hand, legal custody refers to a parent's right to make choices about how a child is brought up, including educational and health-related matters. When deciding on the terms of a custody agreement, a judge may look at multiple factors.
Factors a judge may consider when awarding custody can include:
Additionally, when joint custody is awarded in any combination, parents may still be required to pay child support. While every family’s situation is considered on an individual basis, a judge may consider factors such as each parent’s annual income, monetary contributions, and time spent with children. If you have questions about pursuing joint custody or how an agreement may affect child custody or visitation, our firm can help you to find the answers you need.
Shared custody is typically the best option for many divorcing parents who want to work together for the sake of their children. Although it may be difficult to work with your ex-spouse, parents should consider that their children may be happier if both parents are present during special events, such as piano recitals or baseball games, in spite of the divorce. Children who spend time with both parents generally:
In order for this arrangement to become successful, parents should set their boundaries and understand their responsibilities as parents, and they should make sure to respect the boundaries.
When a marriage comes to an end, it can put families under tremendous stress and child custody is often a heavily disputed point. If you are a relative is currently fighting for joint custody of one or more children, our legal team wants to hear from you. Our Louisville family law attorneys understand what you are going through and can be in your corner every step of the way. Whether through mediation or litigation, our firm can help your family to find the most effective path towards your goals.
Contact us at (502) 812-1889 today and speak to us about your family’s situation.