Sole Custody Attorney Little Rock

Obtaining Sole Custody in Arkansas

Child custody issues can be difficult and emotional. If you are planning to fight for sole custody and are looking for a child support attorney or child custody attorney in Little Rock, Destiny Law Firm can help you navigate Arkansas law and make sure your voice is heard.

There are two types of custody: physical and legal. Physical custody determines who the children are with, and for what period(s) of time. Legal custody determines who makes day-to-day decisions about issues like what school(s) a child will attend, which doctor(s) they will see, and where they will live when in a parent’s custody.

Child custody agreements or orders are intended to outline both physical and legal custody. They should always focus on what is in the child(ren)’s best interest.

Arkansas courts typically favor joint custody, or physical and legal custody shared between both parents. However, sole custody is sometimes awarded when there are extenuating circumstances. That does not mean that one parent is completely excluded from the child(ren)’s life, except for in extreme circumstances.

If you have questions about child custody, the family law attorneys at Destiny Law Firm can help. Destiny McHughes has helped families with a wide variety of divorce and family law issues over the years and understands the tough decisions you face.

When Do Arkansas Courts Grant Sole Custody?

The granting of sole custody is limited in Arkansas. Generally, Arkansas courts favor parents having a joint custody arrangement so that each has equal time with the child(ren) and equal say in important decision-making for the child(ren). However, there are some instances where sole custody may be a more viable option, such as:

• One parent is not available or willing to participate in custody of the child(ren);
• One parent is unsuitable to be involved in a custody agreement (such as if they are incarcerated);
• There is a history of violence, abuse, or neglect of the children;
• There is a history of parental drug abuse;
• One parent has been or is engaged in criminal behavior;
• Refusal of one parent to foster a relationship with the other parent;
• Situations in which a parent’s location or residence is far away from the other parent.

Though the courts favor involvement of both parents, matters that might impact the safety and well-being of the child(ren) are taken extremely seriously.

Child Custody and Visitation

In any custody arrangement, visitation is still a priority for the child(ren)’s well-being. Visitation rights allow the child(ren) to be in contact with the non-custodial parent and provide specific dates and times for the non-custodial parent’s time-sharing.

Visitation is designed to allow the child(ren) to have a relationship with both parents, even though one parent is the primarily custodian. In some instances, child custody may be revoked but can be granted again later; however, visitation is often still allowed. The process involving custody revocation and reinstatement can be complex, so it is best to consult with a family law attorney to determine next steps in your situation.

How a Destiny Law Firm Attorney Can Help with Sole Custody Questions

The process relating to child custody, regardless of the parents’ marital status, can be complex and require the knowledge of an experienced family law attorney to navigate the court system. There is a lot at stake when it comes to child custody. Although you may be able to file some of the child custody legal documents on your own, doing so without the consultation of an attorney could result in errors that cost you time and more, and which can be difficult to modify.

Contact a Little Rock Sole Custody Attorney

If you have questions or need assistance with child custody matters in Arkansas, contact Destiny Law Firm today.