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Joint Custody Lawyer Can Protect You and Your Child
Coming to a custody agreement during divorce can be a difficult and complicated process. In order for children to benefit from cultivating relationships with both their parents, and to enable parents to share responsibilities, a joint custody arrangement can be the best compromise. The Law Office of Ryan S. Dougay in Austin, TX, can help you successfully form a legal or physical joint custody agreement that is in the best interest of every member of the family. Our compassionate joint custody lawyer can provide the experienced, personalized counsel you need.
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n Overview of Joint Custody
When couples separate, decisions must be made regarding where any children will live and who will be responsible for making important life decisions. Oftentimes, parents make arrangements amongst themselves or with the help of an attorney or mediator. If they are unable to do so, the court will intervene and determine what is in the best interest of the child.
In joint legal custody arrangements, parents share decision-making rights pertaining regarding the welfare and upbringing of the child. A collaborative effort will be made in deciding where the child will go to school, what health care provider they will have, what religion they will be exposed to, and so forth. In joint physical custody arrangements, parents split time housing and otherwise caring for the child. Main factors that can affect these decisions are the living situations of parents, the circumstances surrounding the divorce, and the child’s preference.
Approaching Joint Custody
Reaching an agreement with a former spouse or partner can be a difficult task. It requires both parties to set aside their differences and work together to care for their child. How can you make joint custody work?
- Do not speak poorly about your ex-spouse in front of your child
- Find an agreeable method to communicate with your ex-spouse
- Let your child express his or her feelings about the divorce and custody arrangement
- Remember that a bad spouse does not always make a bad parent
- Periodically review your arrangement and adjust if necessary
- Keep focus on what is in the child’s best interest
Crafting a fair joint physical custody or joint legal custody arrangement that serves the best interests of your child is not easy. Unfortunately, many times parties simply cannot settle custody issues outside of court. Family law attorney Ryan S. Dougay prefers peaceful and amicable solutions, but is not afraid to litigate the matter if necessary. He understands the many factors considered in a custody case, from the parent’s living situation to the preference of the child. He is personally invested in your success and committed to getting the job done.
Attorney Dougay offers a compassionate approach to family law and aims to alleviate the stresses associated with difficult legal matters.
The Benefits of Joint Custody
Joint legal custody and joint physical custody have a number of benefits. Children are able to grow up with influence from both parents without fear of alienating or losing one of them. Research conducted into joint custody shows that children who split time between parents fare better than those raised by a sole parent. Divorced parents will retain a common ground and learn to work collaboratively, increasing cordiality and even friendliness in some cases. In addition, joint custody can reduce stress and alleviate some of the physically and financially taxing responsibilities that come with raising a child
Essential Representation
Attorney Dougay offers a compassionate approach to family law and aims to alleviate the stresses associated with difficult legal matters. Contact us online or call (512) 469-0811 today to learn how he can help you win joint custody of your child and move forward with your life.