Phoenix Child Custody and Visitation Attorneys
At Cates, Hanson, Sargeant & Rakestraw, in Phoenix, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of parents and their children. Our team of experienced lawyers uses in-depth knowledge of the law and forceful advocacy to help you achieve the best possible results in a wide range of child custody matters. These include determination of child custody during a divorce, enforcement and modification of existing child custody orders.
Determining Child Custody After a Divorce
When it comes to child custody, Arizona law is gender-neutral — favoring neither fathers nor mothers in custody determinations. Courts usually give parents either joint legal custody or sole legal custody of a child. They may also make decisions about visitation with the child. Courts use the word "parenting time," instead of visitation.
The court takes a series of factors into account when determining child custody and parenting time. These include looking at which parent has been the child's primary caretaker and which parent is more likely to help build meaningful relationships between the child and the other parent. The court also looks at matters like domestic violence that occurred during the marriage and allegations of alcoholism or drug use. Evidence of substance abuse or domestic violence may create a presumption that the parent is not fit to have custody of the child.
Interstate Custody Issues
Once an Arizona family court grants a child custody order, that court usually has the continuing power — jurisdiction — over changes to that order. If you are considering moving out of Arizona, or if a spouse is contemplating a move, it is best to talk with a lawyer about the legal implications. The attorneys at Cates, Hanson, Sargeant & Rakestraw can help answer your specific questions.
Don't Just Search the Internet — Talk to an Attorney
When you have questions about a child custody agreement, the best way to get real answers about how the law applies to you and your children is to talk with a lawyer. Talk with the lawyers at Cates, Hanson, Sargeant & Rakestraw by calling us at 602-296-3434 or toll free at 877-229-9508.
