Child Custody & Visitation

Philadelphia Child Custody Attorney

Protecting Your Parental Legal Rights & Interests in Moorestown, PA

Parent walking with their child in Philly, PAChild custody is an emotionally charged aspect of any divorce or separation. Both you and your spouse will likely want to maximize your time with your children, which can make it difficult to come to an agreement on child custody.

When this happens, the courts must intervene. If you haven’t already done so, this is the time to seek out our dedicated Philadelphia custody lawyer at William Kirby Law, Family Law Attorneys for the help you need. As an experienced trial Philadelphia child custody lawyer, William Kirby provides a commanding presence in the courtroom as well as compassionate guidance throughout every phase and proceeding of the legal process.

Arrange for a confidential consultation about your custody case online here or at (215) 515-9901 today. We're also pleased to offer our services in Moorestown, NJ.

How Do I File for Custody in Philadelphia?

Child custody is not as simple as determining where the child will live. Two primary types of custody will need to be established. These include:

  • Legal custody: Giving the parent the right to make major decisions such as health care, religious, and educational decisions. It may be sole or shared with the spouse, with shared being the most common.
  • Physical custody: Determining where the child will live. It may be shared or joint, partial, supervised, or unsupervised. This arrangement outlines how often parents and children are together and sets visitation schedules.

Under the law, what is in the child’s best interests is the ruling guideline. However, other factors are taken into account, such as siblings and their custody arrangements, history of care giving, and even the child’s preference in some custody cases.

How Does Supervised Visitation Work in PA?

Pennsylvania’s child visitation laws entitle non-custodial parents to visitation unless a major safety issue exists. Although no specific access or time requirements exist, judges establish visitation rights and parenting plans based on the best interests of the child, as well as the overall family situation. The state is a leader in gender-neutrality, believing that both parents should have equal access to their children. When issuing a visitation order, judges must explain the factors that affected the ruling as well as how the decision was reached, which can make it easier to appeal decisions.

How Can A Child Custody Attorney In Philadelphia Help Me?

Family matters can be especially sensitive to handle, and hiring a child custody attorney can go a long way in helping you with various aspects of your custody case. Although our Philadelphia law firm has helped many families facing family law issues regarding child custody and visitation, we understand that each situation is unique, and our lawyers make sure to give each custody case the unique attention that it requires.

A child custody lawyer can help you by:

  • Guiding you through the legal process
  • Providing clarity to all of your questions
  • Protecting your and your family's rights
  • Providing you with important legal advice
  • Representing you in court
  • Filing your paperwork and helping you avoid costly mistakes
  • Serving as an emotional support system
  • Assisting you with other family matters, such as setting up child support
  • Negotiating on your behalf and fighting for a settlement with your and your family's best interests in mind

At What Age Can Child Choose Custody in Pennsylvania?

There is no specific age before the children turn 18 in Pennsylvania. A judge must consider a child's preference, along with that children's age, maturity, and other elements. But the conclusive decision is always up to the judge. Put in a custody action. A child has a voice but no choice in PA.

Legal Counsel for Child Custody & Visitation Cases in Philadelphia

Pennsylvania is very supportive of parents’ rights to see their children. Divorce laws in the state operate under the assumption that both parents have equal rights to the child. Still, it can be challenging to assert your legal rights if you are unfamiliar with child custody and visitation laws in Philadelphia, or if you are intimidated by the court or your spouse’s lawyer. Obtaining legal counsel at William Kirby Law, Family Law Attorneys is strongly advised, especially if you have concerns about the impact visitation, or a lack of visitation, will have on your relationship with your child.

Suggested Reading:

Consult with our Philadelphia Child Custody and Visitation Attorney at (215) 515-9901 or Contact Us Online for the Legal Counsel You Need.

Why Hire Our Firm?

  • Connected with the Local Community
  • Honest & Responsive Communication
  • Empathetic & Resolution-Oriented
  • Values & Cares for Every Client

Testimonials from Clients

  • “Mr. Kirby has stuck by me for the last 3 years in the most intense time of my life. The attorney team (Allison in particular) he’s put together absolutely CRUSHED it for me with my case! I’d recommend ...”

    - Clifton W.

  • “I came to Kirby Law after seeing his amazing reviews online because I was battling a serious issue with my soon-to-be ex-husband. I needed help with a divorce and PFA. When I went to court all I had ...”

    - Danyel G.

  • “It’s been a tremendous journey for me and I was alone for a long period of time. I had reached out to multiple firms. I felt like I was l was lost. I had tried to represent myself in court and even ...”

    - L.B.

  • “After having unsuccessful connections with several other law offices to assist me in my custody case. I contacted William Kirby Family Law and on our very first live call, I did not have to think ...”

    - Alondra T.

  • “From the moment I stepped into William Kirby Family Law I was impressed with the level of service given. Not only is William one of the most knowledgeable family attorneys I have ever met but what ...”

    - Grace H.
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