New Jersey Child Custody Attorneys

Child custody disputes are among the most sensitive and emotionally charged aspects of divorce cases. Parents often feel anxious about the outcome, as child custody decisions can significantly impact their relationships with their children. In New Jersey, courts prioritize the child’s best interests when determining custody arrangements, including legal custody, physical custody, and parenting time.

The New Jersey child custody lawyers at Zeigler Law Group, LLC handle child custody matters with the care and attention they deserve. Whether you are negotiating an initial custody agreement or seeking modifications to an existing one, we work diligently to help clients achieve resolutions that protect their parental rights while serving the best interests of their children.

What Are the Different Types of Child Custody in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, child custody can be divided into two main categories: legal custody and physical custody.

Legal custody refers to a parent’s right to make major decisions regarding the child’s upbringing, such as education, healthcare, and religious practices. Legal custody can either be sole (only one parent makes these decisions) or joint (both parents share decision-making responsibilities).

Physical custody determines where the child will live. Sole physical custody means the child primarily resides with one parent, while joint physical custody involves the child spending time living with both parents. In joint custody arrangements, the child’s time may be split equally or in a way that serves the child’s best interests.

New Jersey courts generally prefer joint legal custody unless there is evidence that one parent should not participate in major child welfare decisions.

How Can I Create a Custody Agreement?

Parents are encouraged to work together to create a custody agreement that serves the best interests of their children. This agreement typically addresses both legal and physical custody, as well as the parenting time schedule. By negotiating an agreement outside of court, parents can retain more control over the outcome and create a more flexible arrangement that works for their unique situation.

Mediation can be a helpful tool when parents cannot reach an agreement on their own. In mediation, a neutral third party helps facilitate discussions between parents to resolve disputes and reach a mutual agreement. If mediation is unsuccessful, the case will go to court, and a judge will decide on custody.

Our New Jersey child custody lawyers can assist in drafting a formal custody agreement with legally binding terms. They can also represent you during mediation or litigation, protecting their rights and interests.

How Do Courts Decide Custody in New Jersey?

When deciding child custody, New Jersey courts prioritize the child’s best interests. These factors are considered to determine what will best promote the child’s welfare and happiness:

• The relationship between the child and each parent.
• The child’s safety and well-being.
• The ability of each parent to provide a stable and nurturing home environment.
• The child’s preferences, if the child is of sufficient age and maturity to express an opinion.
• The mental and physical health of both parents.
• The parents’ ability to cooperate in matters affecting the child.
• The geographical proximity of the parents’ residences.
• Courts will also consider any history of domestic violence or substance abuse, as these issues can impact the child’s safety.

What Is a Parenting Time Schedule?

A parenting time schedule, often called a visitation schedule, outlines the specific times and dates that parents will spend with the child. In New Jersey, courts strive to create a schedule that allows both parents to maintain meaningful relationships with their children, provided it is in the child’s best interests.

Our New Jersey child custody lawyers assist parents in negotiating a parenting time schedule that works for both parties. If parents cannot reach an agreement, the court will step in and create a schedule based on the child’s needs. A detailed and clear schedule is essential to avoid misunderstandings and disputes down the line.

Can Custody Orders Be Modified?

Yes, custody orders can be modified after they are established, but there must be a major change in circumstances to warrant a modification. Common reasons for modifying a custody order include:

• One parent is relocating to a different area.
• A change in the child’s needs, such as educational or medical issues.
• One parent experiencing a significant change in their work schedule or financial situation.
• Evidence of abuse, neglect, or an unsafe environment.

In such cases, the parent seeking the modification must petition the court and provide evidence supporting the need for a change. The court will review the circumstances and determine whether a modification is in the child’s best interests.

What Happens if One Parent Violates a Custody Order?

Violating a custody order can have serious legal consequences in New Jersey. If one parent does not comply with the terms of the custody agreement, such as refusing to allow the other parent their scheduled parenting time, the affected parent can seek enforcement through the court.

What Should I Do if I Want to Relocate With My Child?

If a parent with physical custody wishes to relocate with their child, they must obtain permission from either the other parent or the court. Relocating can significantly impact the current custody arrangement and the relationship between the child and the non-relocating parent. In New Jersey, the court will only grant a relocation request if it is in the child’s best interests.

Relocation cases can be contentious, and it is important to have experienced legal representation. Our New Jersey child custody lawyers can help you present your case to the court, whether you are seeking permission to relocate or opposing the move.

Why Is Legal Representation Important in Child Custody Cases?

Child custody cases can be emotionally challenging and complicated. Legal representation is vital, as it helps parents understand their rights and responsibilities, present their case effectively, and protect their children’s best interests. Our New Jersey child custody lawyers can provide guidance, prepare the necessary documentation, and advocate for a fair custody arrangement.

The Compassionate New Jersey Child Custody Lawyers at Zeigler Law Group, LLC Offer Consultations

Our experienced New Jersey child custody lawyers help parents secure custody arrangements that serve the best interests of their children. This can be a challenging time for families, and we will be with you every step of the way. Call Zeigler Law Group, LLC at 732-361-4827 or submit our online form for a consultation. Located in Toms River, Red Bank, Princeton, and Mount Laurel, New Jersey, we serve clients in Ocean County, County, Mercer County, and Burlington County.