Fairfield Child Custody Lawyer

Fairfield Child Custody Attorney

Child custody battles in Fairfield, CT, can be challenging, presenting emotional and legal strain on everyone involved. At Reich & Truax, PLLC, a Fairfield child custody lawyer can lead you through this process and provide you with the legal and empathetic support you need. Our goal is to protect your rights and fight for your child’s best interests.

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Why Choose Us?

At Reich & Truax, PLLC, we understand how important child custody matters are. We fight to ensure that the needs of the child are placed at the forefront of all decisions. We also strive to protect the rights of our clients. We are familiar with Fairfield courts and family law and can provide you with the legal assistance you need for the most favorable outcome. We want to protect your parental rights so you can have peace of mind.

Understanding Connecticut’s Child Custody Laws

In Connecticut, there are two main types of custody: physical custody and legal custody. Legal custody gives parents the power to make important choices about their child’s education and healthcare, as well as religious education. When both parents are capable caregivers, Connecticut law supports joint legal custody because shared parenting decisions typically provide positive developmental outcomes for children.

The Hartford-based Children’s Law Center gives legal support to parents dealing with joint custody matters by explaining the distribution of decision-making powers between them.

Physical custody determines the child’s everyday living arrangements. Courts support parenting plans that provide children ample time with both parents because society increasingly values the positive impact of parental engagement on children’s emotional health. A recent poll showed that 96% of Connecticut residents support equal parenting time for children.

Factors Courts Consider When Determining Child Custody in Fairfield, CT

In Fairfield, CT, courts will consider a number of factors when determining child custody outcomes. Some of the main factors include:

• Parental cooperation. Judicial systems prefer parents who show a readiness to maintain the child’s bond with their other parent. The state prioritizes joint custody arrangements when parents reach an agreement that benefits the child.
• Child’s preference. Connecticut law permits courts to consider the preferences of children of sufficient age who demonstrate enough maturity, even though there is no set age for taking their preferences into account.
• Parental involvement. The extent to which each parent participates in their child’s life plays a vital role. Under Connecticut law, active parental involvement from both parents is seen as beneficial for children. National statistics show that mothers receive custody time roughly 65% of the time, while fathers obtain custody time approximately 35% of the time. However, in Connecticut, fathers typically receive custody 50% of the time.
• Any history of neglect or abuse. When domestic violence or substance abuse is present, the court must place the child’s safety above all else. The Connecticut Judicial Branch Family Services provides resources and support to families facing these problems.
• Financial standing. Family courts evaluate both parents to determine their capacity to meet the child’s requirements. The yearly average for child support payments in Connecticut reached $38,371.70 in 2018.
• Parent-child relationship. Judges evaluate the strength of the bond between the child and both parents as an important factor to consider. Children who build strong bonds with both parents typically experience improved emotional and psychological development.
• Adjustment to home, school, and community. Judges evaluate the effects of custody decisions on a child’s present home environment and educational and community connections. Most people recognize stability as a fundamental requirement for children’s healthy development.
• Willingness to foster a relationship with the other parent. The ability of a parent to encourage a beneficial relationship between their child and the other parent remains an important aspect of child custody. A survey by Shared Parenting shows that 84% of Connecticut residents believe that sole custody decisions lead to increased parental conflict.

Creating a Parenting Plan in Fairfield, CT

Connecticut law encourages parents to formulate a parenting plan together that outlines how custody and visitation will be carried out. A well-created plan includes details regarding:

• Weekly schedules
• Weekend visitations
• Holiday schedules
• Communication methods between parents and children
• Decision-making responsibilities

The Connecticut Judicial Branch Family Services Department helps families develop and evaluate parenting plans that adhere to state standards while prioritizing child welfare. Judges usually validate parenting plans agreed upon by both parties unless evidence demonstrates potential harm to the child.

FAQs About Fairfield, CT Child Custody Laws

How Much Does It Cost to Get Full Custody of a Child?

The cost of obtaining full custody of a child in Connecticut varies according to case complexity. The amount of legal fees varies based on whether the case is contested by the parties involved. The total cost includes filing fees, mediation costs, and attorney retainers. Legal cases that require professional testimony or psychological evaluations usually incur higher expenses.

What Is the Biggest Mistake in a Custody Battle?

The greatest error during a custody battle consists of speaking negatively about the other parent or trying to create distance between them and the child. Courts evaluate the best interests of the child and show preference towards parents who promote positive relationships with the other parent. Demonstrating hostility and refusing to cooperate can harm the judge’s perception of you and diminish your potential for obtaining a beneficial custody decision.

Who Wins Most Child Custody Cases?

Mothers usually obtain primary custody, yet courts are moving toward more equitable custody arrangements. The national data shows that mothers hold 65% of custody time while fathers receive only 35%. Connecticut courts now show a growing preference towards joint custody arrangements, which result in shared legal custody when parents show they can both adequately care for their children.

What Should You Not Say During a Custody Battle?

During a custody battle, never speak negatively or show hostility toward the other parent before your child. Accusations against the other parent of being unfit without proof could result in negative consequences. Do not discuss case details with your child because threats and non-cooperation with the other parent can create a negative impression in court.

Contact Reich & Truax, PLLC Today

If you have custody issues in Fairfield, you do not have to handle the legal process alone. Reich & Truax, PLLC can help you. Contact us today for more information.