Regarding child custody and support cases, it is crucial to understand that the primary focus should be on the well-being of the child or children involved. Unfortunately, disputes between parents during such cases can sometimes overshadow the best interests of their children. That is why family law plays a crucial role in protecting children's rights by providing proper care and support and a safe and stable environment. Interests are ever prioritized.
The Role of Family Law in Child Custody Cases
Family law governs custody disputes between separated or divorced parents. In these cases, the court's primary objective is to rule in the child's best interests, protecting their rights and ensuring their well-being. To determine the child's best interests, the court considers several factors, including age, the parent's financial ability to provide for the child's welfare, current relationships with each parent, and the child's education. The court can award sole legal and physical custody to one parent, shared legal and physical custody, or grant joint legal custody, allowing both parents to decide on the child's welfare.
Types of Child Custody
There are mainly two types of child custody: Legal and physical. Legal custody refers to the right to make decisions regarding the child's life, such as schooling, medical care, or religion. Physical custody determines where the child will reside. Physical custody can be further broken down into two categories: joint and sole physical. In joint physical custody arrangements, the child alternates living with both parents, while sole physical custody gives one parent primary custody, and the other receives visitation rights.
Calculating Child Support
Child support is an essential aspect of ensuring children's well-being, and its calculation varies according to several factors, including the child's age, the parent's income, and the child's basic needs. The court typically follows state guidelines to determine the amount of child support that must be paid monthly. In most cases, the non-custodial parent pays child support, but in shared physical custody arrangements, both parents make payments according to their income levels. Child support typically covers the child's basic needs, including food, clothing, shelter, medical care, and educational expenses.
Enforcing Child Support
One of the significant challenges that arise when it comes to child support is enforcing payment. Family law upholds a parent's responsibility to provide for their child regardless of their relationship status with the other parent. If a non-custodial parent fails to pay child support, they can face legal consequences, such as wage garnishment or jail time. Thus, enforcing child support payments is critical to custodial arrangements, ensuring that children receive adequate care and financial support.
Bristol County Child Custody Lawyer
If you require professional assistance in protecting your children's best interests during child custody and support cases, contact the Law Offices of Law Offices of Rachel M. Matos today at (508) 206-9334 to get started. Our experienced team is here to help you through this challenging journey.