When it comes to divorce cases in Missouri, child custody and visitation are often some of the most contentious and emotionally charged issues that couples face. At Brydon, Swearengen & England, our team of local divorce lawyers in Jefferson City understands the complexities of family law and is dedicated to helping our clients navigate the legal process with compassion and expertise.
Child Custody in Missouri
In Missouri, child custody is determined based on the child’s best interests. This means that the court will consider various factors when deciding custody, including the child’s relationship with each parent, the child’s adjustment to home, school, and community, and all individuals’ mental and physical health.
In Missouri, two types of custody arrangements can be established: legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody refers to the right to make important decisions about the child’s upbringing, such as education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. On the other hand, physical custody refers to where the child will live.
It’s important to note that Missouri courts prefer to award joint legal and physical custody whenever possible, as they believe it is in the child’s best interests to maintain a strong relationship with both parents. However, this is not always feasible, especially in cases where there is a history of domestic violence or other extenuating circumstances.
Visitation Rights
In cases where one parent is awarded primary physical custody, the other parent is typically entitled to visitation rights. Visitation schedules can vary widely depending on the specific circumstances of each case, but the overarching goal is to ensure that the child maintains a strong and healthy relationship with both parents.
At Brydon, Swearengen & England, our family law lawyers understand the importance of creating visitation schedules that work for both parents and prioritize the child’s well-being. We work closely with our clients to develop visitation arrangements that are fair and feasible, taking into account factors such as each parent’s work schedule, the child’s school and extracurricular activities, and any other relevant considerations.
Divorce Financial Preparation
In addition to addressing child custody and visitation, it’s also crucial for individuals going through a divorce to consider their financial future. Our team of Jefferson City lawyers has extensive experience in divorce financial preparation and can guide on issues such as spousal support, child support, and the division of assets and debts.
We understand that financial concerns can be a major source of stress during divorce proceedings, which is why we are committed to helping our clients achieve fair and equitable financial outcomes. Whether you are concerned about protecting your assets or ensuring that you receive the financial support you need following your divorce, our team is here to advocate for your best interests.
Divorce Mediation vs. Litigation
Couples can pursue either mediation or litigation to resolve issues related to child custody, visitation, and financial matters in a divorce. Divorce mediation involves working with a neutral third party to reach agreements on key issues outside of the courtroom. This can be a more collaborative and cost-effective approach, allowing couples to maintain greater control over the outcome of their case.
On the other hand, litigation involves presenting arguments and evidence in court for a judge to decide. While litigation can be necessary when significant conflicts or disputes cannot be resolved through mediation, it often results in a longer and more adversarial process.
At Brydon, Swearengen & England, we have experience with both mediation and litigation and can help our clients determine which approach best suits their unique circumstances. Our goal is always to help our clients achieve efficient and amicable resolutions whenever possible, but we are prepared to advocate aggressively in court when necessary.
Divorce Strategies and Consultation
Navigating a divorce can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to complex issues such as child custody, visitation, and financial considerations. Our team of local divorce lawyers is dedicated to providing strategic guidance and compassionate support to individuals facing divorce proceedings.
We offer comprehensive divorce consultation services to help our clients understand their rights and options under Missouri law. Whether you are just beginning to consider divorce or are already in the midst of proceedings, we can provide clear and informed guidance to help you make well-informed decisions about your future.
Our team will work closely with you to develop personalized divorce strategies that prioritize your long-term well-being and the best interests of your children. We understand that every case is unique, so we take the time to listen to our client’s concerns and develop tailored legal strategies that address their specific needs and goals.
Child custody and visitation are among the most critical issues to address in any Missouri divorce case. At Brydon, Swearengen & England, our team of experienced family law lawyers is committed to helping our clients navigate these complex matters with skill and sensitivity.
Whether you seek guidance on child custody arrangements, visitation schedules, financial preparation, or divorce strategies, our team is here to provide the knowledgeable legal counsel you need. We understand the challenges of divorce proceedings and are dedicated to advocating for our client’s rights and interests at every step.
If you are facing a divorce or have questions about child custody and visitation in Missouri, we encourage you to contact our team for a consultation. We are here to provide the support and guidance you need during this challenging time.