Are you facing a custody battle? Alternatively, perhaps you’re trying to create a parenting plan that works well for your family. No matter if you’re going through a divorce or needing to revisit an existing order, child custody cases in Connecticut can be legally confusing and emotionally draining.
However, if you’re feeling uncertain about what comes next, there are resources to turn to. A Glastonbury child custody lawyer can provide you with structure and guidance during this difficult time. As your Glastonbury family lawyer, we can advocate for your parental rights every step of the way.
At Rich Rochlin Family Law, our attorneys have spent over 35 years helping families like yours resolve custody issues with care and strength. We understand what’s at stake, and we’re committed to helping you secure an outcome that puts your child’s interests above all.
Factors Influencing Custody Decisions
Connecticut courts consider a comprehensive set of factors when determining custody arrangements. Here’s how these factors are outlined according to General Statutes § 46b–56(c):
- The physical and emotional safety of the child
- The temperament of the child, as well as their developmental needs
- The capacity of each parent to successfully meet the needs of their child
- The wishes and preferences of the child
- The past and current interaction and relationship of the child with each parent
- The willingness of each parent to successfully facilitate a relationship with their child
- Manipulation or coercive behavior that seeks to involve the child in the dispute
- The possibility of each parent when it comes to being actively involved in the child’s life
- The child’s adjustment to their home, school, and community environments
- The length of time the child has lived in a stable and satisfactory environment
- The stability of the home that the child either already lives in or could move into
- The mental and physical health of all individuals involved
- The child’s cultural background
- The effect on the child of the actions of an abuser
These factors are not weighted equally. Rather, the court exercises discretion and reserves the right to determine which ones are pertinent to your case.
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Child’s Wishes and Age Considerations
While the child’s wishes are an important consideration, they are not determinative. Connecticut law does not specify a fixed age at which a child’s preference must be considered.
However, courts generally give more weight to the preferences of older children who can articulate their reasons for a preference. For younger children, the court assesses whether the child’s preference is based on a thoughtful and informed decision or is merely a transient desire.
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Parenting Education Programs
Connecticut requires parents involved in custody disputes to complete a parenting education program. This program aims to teach parents the impact of divorce or separation on children and to develop skills for effective co-parenting.
The court considers participation in such a program when making custody decisions.
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Modification of Custody Orders
Custody orders are not set in stone. Either parent can request a modification of the custody arrangement if there is a significant change in circumstances. The requesting party must demonstrate that the modification is in the child’s interests.
The court will re-evaluate the custody arrangement based on the same factors considered in the original decision.
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Visitation and Parenting Time
In addition to custody, the court also addresses visitation or parenting time. The goal is to ensure that the child maintains a meaningful relationship with both parents.
The court may establish a specific visitation schedule or encourage the parents to develop a mutually agreed-upon plan. In cases where parents cannot agree, the court will intervene to establish a schedule that serves the child’s interests.
Third-Party Visitation
Connecticut law allows for third–party visitation under certain circumstances. Grandparents or other individuals who have had a significant relationship with the child may petition the court for visitation rights.
The court will consider factors such as the child’s relationship with the third party and the impact of the visitation on the child’s well-being.
Enforcement of Custody and Visitation Orders
Once a custody or visitation order is in place, it is legally binding. If a parent fails to comply with the order, the other parent can petition the court for enforcement. The court has the authority to impose sanctions, including contempt of court charges, to ensure compliance with its orders.
Relocation and Custody
If a parent wishes to relocate with the child, especially if the move is out of state, the court must approve the relocation. The relocating parent must demonstrate that the move is what’s best for the child.
The other parent has the right to object to the relocation, and the court will consider the impact of the move on the child’s relationship with both parents.
The Role Glastonbury Child Custody Attorneys Often Play in Custody Disputes
Glastonbury child custody lawyers often assist parents like you in the following ways:
- Interpreting Connecticut custody laws and court procedures
- Helping clients fully understand their rights and obligations
- Filing or responding to custody petitions
- Making sure all legal documents are accurately prepared and submitted on time
- Representing parents during court hearings or mediation sessions
At this point, the lawyer’s role shifts from basic procedural tasks to more active involvement when it comes to ensuring that the client’s goals are clearly defined and supported. This involves actions such as:
- Advocating for their clients’ custody goals and protecting their interests
- Negotiating comprehensive custody agreements and parenting plans
- Working to avoid prolonged litigation
- Promoting cooperative co-parenting arrangements along the way
While these steps involve negotiation and strategy, a Glastonbury child custody attorney can identify additional factors that support your case. They will likely also challenge any unfair accusations made by the opposing side as well, including:
- Identifying factors that support the client’s case
- Challenging false accusations made by the other parent or their legal team
- Presenting evidence related to the child’s interests
Last but not least, in cases where circumstances may change, your attorney’s focus will often shift to making adjustments and ensuring the orders are being followed to maintain the child’s well-being in the following ways:
- Seeking modifications of existing custody orders when circumstances change
- Enforcing custody orders if one parent is not complying with the terms
- Protecting clients in cases involving concerns about the safety of the child
- Collaborating with child psychologists, guardians ad litem, and professionals
- Ensuring that custody arrangements are legally binding and enforceable
Reach Out to Our Child Custody Law Firm in Glastonbury for Legal Representation in Your Family Matters
If you’re going through a custody battle, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure about what comes next. These are challenging moments, but you don’t have to face them all by yourself.
Instead, consider connecting with Rich Rochlin Family Law as soon as possible. Our Glastonbury child custody attorneys understand the stakes in your case, and we’re here to advocate for your rights as we help you protect your bond with your child.
You don’t have to go through this process alone. All you have to do is take that first step today by giving us a call. Reach out to our Glastonbury office so that we can start working together toward a solution that puts your child’s well-being at the forefront of everything.
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