Do you have to be getting a divorce to fight for child custody?
No, you do not have to be getting a divorce to fight for child custody. However, if you are married, the court will usually require that you at least attempt to work out a parenting plan with your spouse before it will hear your case. This is because the court recognizes that children do best when they have both parents involved in their lives. Smoak Law P.C. is a family law firm based in Salt Lake City, Utah.
If you are not married, however, you can still petition the court for child custody. Call a Salt Lake City child custody lawyer to understand all the laws. The court will then look at a number of factors to determine what is in the best interest of the child, including:
-The relationship between the child and each parent
-The ability of each parent to provide a stable home environment for the child
-The ability of each parent to meet the child's physical and emotional needs
-The child's preference, if the child is old enough to express one
-The history of each parent's involvement in the child's life
If you are considering petitioning for child custody, it is important to consult with an experienced Salt Lake City child custody attorney who can help you navigate the process and ensure that your rights are protected. Contact Smoak Law P.C. today to schedule a consultation. Utah has a number of laws and procedures in place regarding child custody, and an experienced attorney can help you understand how these laws will apply in your specific case.