Child Custody Lawyer

When it comes to your family, you never compromise – and you should not start with any random York child custody lawyer. 

You deserve a York child custody attorney who has deep knowledge of family law and the ability to protect your rights in court. If you are uncertain about your family’s future after a divorce, you deserve the reassurance and confidence that comes with enlisting a child custody lawyer of FrancePaskeySwopePugh. in York, Pennsylvania. 

As your York child custody lawyer, we are available to provide you with the answers you need to make the most informed decision in your divorce and child custody cases. Divorce is hard enough; let our York child custody lawyer fight for you.

What Do You Need To Know About Child Custody In Pennsylvania?

How does a judge decide who gets primary custody in Pennsylvania?

A Pennsylvania judge decides primary physical custody by looking at the child’s best interests and not either parent’s personal preference. The court may review each parent’s ability to provide safety, stability, daily care, school support and a healthy relationship with the other parent when appropriate. Judges also consider issues such as abuse, conflict, parental duties, sibling relationships and the child’s needs.

Can my ex legally move out of Pennsylvania with our child?

Your ex cannot simply move away with your child if the move would significantly affect your custody rights. Pennsylvania relocation rules usually require the relocating parent to provide proper notice and obtain either your consent or court approval. If you object, the court may decide whether the move serves your child’s best interests. You should speak with a York child custody attorney quickly because relocation disputes can move fast.

At what age can a child choose which parent to live with in Pennsylvania?

A child does not get to choose custody in Pennsylvania just because they reach a certain age. The court may consider the child’s preference if the child is mature enough to express a thoughtful reason. However, the judge makes the final decision. A teenager’s opinion may carry more weight than a young child’s opinion, but the court must still focus on the child’s best interests.

What should I do if my ex is withholding my child from me?

If your ex is refusing to follow a custody order, keep records of missed exchanges, messages, dates, times and any witnesses. Do not respond by violating the order yourself. Instead, talk with a child custody lawyer about enforcement options, which may include filing for contempt. The court can review whether your ex willfully disobeyed the custody order.

How do I prove my ex is an unfit parent in a York County custody case?

To show that the other parent may be unfit, you need more than frustration or disagreement. Useful evidence may include police reports, protection orders, medical records, school records, messages, witness statements, proof of substance abuse, neglect, unsafe conditions or repeated failure to follow the custody order. Your lawyer can help you organize the facts and present them in a way the court can consider.

When Do You Need The Services Of A York Child Custody Lawyer?

Perhaps the most obvious sign that a York child custody attorney is necessary: Your ex has hired a York child custody attorney. If you know your ex-spouse is receiving legal aid, you need the assistance of an attorney to properly respond and negotiate. Contact FrancePaskeySwopePugh. for an experienced child custody attorney in York.

Additionally, a competent child custody attorney in York, Pennsylvania, can be beneficial if:

• Your case crosses multiple jurisdictions, including county and state lines
• You have reason to believe that your children may be in physical danger, including the risk of international abduction
• The child custody case has suddenly become more complicated because of a move or your ex’s decision to have you designated as an “unfit” parent
• Your ex-spouse is barring you from seeing your children

Child custody cases do not have to be knockdown, drag-out fights – but you do deserve to have your rights protected in court. As a devoted parent, you should not be bullied into a custody agreement that does not suit your needs or allow you to see your children with the frequency you like. As your child custody lawyers in York, Pennsylvania, we ensure your parental rights are protected.

Take back your power with the help of a competent York child custody lawyer. At FrancePaskeySwopePugh., we help you take the emotion out of your legal case and achieve real results. Put our 20 years of experience to work for you. Contact us today to meet with a York child custody attorney and learn more about your options. Arrange a consultation by email or by calling us at 717-931-5994.