A family lawyer in New Jersey can help you navigate legal issues associated with divorce; this includes determining custody of children. Laterra & Hodge is a family law firm that assists with custody matters. Here is more information about finding the best custody attorney in Bergen County:
Explains State Laws
A qualified family lawyer will review New Jersey laws surrounding child custody in divorce or separation cases. New Jersey State Act 9:2-4 is the state custody statute. State policy helps children have continuing contact with both parents, and it promotes parents sharing responsibility for caring for their children. Custody is separated into two components, which are physical and legal custody. Physical custody relates to the person the child lives with on a daily basis. Legal custody determines who is authorized to make healthcare, educational, and other significant decisions about a child. A parent can be appointed sole legal custody or joint legal custody and primary or joint physical custody. When determining custody, the court examines factors such as:
- Child’s needs
- Parent communication
- Child preferences
- Educational needs
- Abuse history
A lawyer will review the laws regarding visitation and custody arrangements with you to help you understand the legal options available. They will help you prepare your case for sole or joint custody, assisting you with putting together evidence for your cause. Our lawyers are knowledgeable about the local court proceedings in Bergen County, and we will help you create a custody arrangement that is beneficial for both yourself and the child.
Assists With Relocation
In a divorce or separation, one parent moving out of state with a child requires a relocation application. New Jersey law requires that either the child consents to the move or both parents do. If these are not met, then the parent is required to have a court order approving the move. There is a court-conducted relocation meeting. During the meeting, the parent who plans to move must demonstrate a sufficient reason for moving; they also show that the change will not be adverse to the child’s best interests. A lawyer is able to help prepare paperwork for filing if needed. Our custody attorneys are familiar with relocation laws and help people navigate trial opposition.
Helps With the Evaluation Process
During divorce proceedings, custody may be in dispute between the parties. A case management conference involves the judge meeting the parents to determine whether there are custody and parenting time issues. If there are, the couple attends a mediation, and they use the services of a neutral third party to discuss custody.
If resolution is not found during mediation, evaluation is required. Custody experts perform evaluations, and the parties have the choice of having a single evaluation, a court-appointed expert, or finding their own. An experienced lawyer is able to guide you through the evaluation process. During litigation, the expert provides custody recommendations. In New Jersey, the opposing party has the opportunity to cross-examine. Our lawyers in Bergen County assist you with litigation, as we are able to represent your interests in court and provide rebuttal.
Find a Family Lawyer
A qualified custody attorney in Bergen County helps you navigate custody requirements; they also support you in advocating for sole or joint legal custody of your child. Our attorneys also go over child support requirements with you. We offer divorce coaching services to help you develop court strategies, improve communication with the other party, and work on long-term parenting goals. Our firm is also able to protect fathers’ rights and assist with domestic abuse cases. To find a family lawyer in Bergen County, we invite you to contact Laterra & Hodge today.
