(702) 214-7244
(702) 214-7244

Child Custody

At The Law Office of Romeo R. Perez, our team will thoroughly review your case, listen to your concerns and preferences, and outline the best course of action for you. We know you have your child's best interests at heart. To that end, we will make every effort to attain the child custody arrangement best for you and your child. Contact us online or at 702-214-7244 to schedule a Consultation. 

Types of Child Custody

  • Legal Custody: Refers to decision-making authority regarding major aspects of the child's life, like education, religion, and healthcare. It can be:

    • Joint: Both parents share decision-making.
    • Sole: One parent has sole authority.

  • Physical Custody: Refers to where the child resides. It can be:

    • Joint: The child spends significant time with each parent.
    • Sole: One parent has primary residence of the child.

Additional Considerations

  • Joint Custody Variations:

    • Primary Custodial Parent: Spends a majority of time with the child.
    • Noncustodial Parent: Maintains visitation rights but doesn't have primary residence.

  • Other Custody Arrangements:

    • Split Custody: Each parent has primary custody of at least one child. (Uncommon)
    • Temporary Custody: Awarded during the separation process, not indicative of final arrangements.

Factors Guiding Child Custody Decisions

Courts prioritize the child's best interests, considering various factors:

  • Child's Needs: Age, development, and emotional well-being.
  • Parental Fitness: Health, stability, and ability to provide a safe environment.
  • Parental Bond with Child: Strength of emotional connection with each parent.
  • Stability and Continuity: Maintaining the child's familiar routines and environment.
  • Parental Cooperation: Willingness to facilitate a positive relationship between the child and the other parent.
  • Parental Capacity to Provide: Ability to meet the child's physical, emotional, and educational needs.
  • Geographic Proximity: Distance between parents' residences and potential impact on the child's relationships.
  • Criminal History: Any criminal activity that poses a risk to the child.
  • Child's Wishes: May be considered depending on age and maturity.
  • Parental Involvement: Prior level of engagement in the child's life.

Parenting Plans

Once custody is determined (unless sole custody is awarded), a parenting plan outlines expectations for both parents, addressing:

  • Residence schedule
  • Decision-making processes
  • Communication protocols
  • Healthcare and educational responsibilities

Unfit Parents and Child Custody

If a parent is deemed unfit, the court may award custody to another party with supervised visitation for the unfit parent. Rehabilitation efforts like counseling or parenting classes may be required to regain custody.

Contact Us Today

If you are facing a child custody issue, make certain your rights are protected by hiring our team. At The Law Office of Romeo R. Perez, we know how to handle child custody matters. Contact us today by using our online form or calling us directly at 702-214-7244 to schedule a Consultation.