Child Custody Lawyer in Georgetown and Dover
Child custody is one of the most important issues a family can deal with in divorce. The parties most affected by a child custody dispute typically have the least to say about what will happen. That's why Delaware courts look at the best interests of the child in deciding child custody and visitation issues.
Unfortunately, divorce itself isn't always in the best interest of children. As your lawyer, I will help you do what is best in a situation that is not ideal.
In a traditional child custody and visitation arrangement, one parent will have primary custody and the other will have visitation according to a visitation schedule. That schedule may be one evening during the week, every other weekend, alternate holidays and an extended period of time in the summer − or another arrangement.
Parents can also negotiate a nontraditional parenting plan. The trend in Delaware and other states has been to provide more shared parenting plans. A shared or joint parenting plan, in which each parent may have the child nearly 50 percent of the time, is possible when the parents get along and reside in the same school district.
Delaware Child Support Guidelines
In Delaware, child support payments are based on the income of both parties, the number of children, day care expenses, heath care expenses, and the number of overnight visits you have with your child. I can run the Delaware child support calculation for you and let you know what your payments will be. Courts rarely deviate from the guidelines.
Child support may still be ordered even if there is shared child custody.
Modifications to Child Custody and Child Support
Child custody can be changed if there is a change in circumstances affecting the best interests of your child, such as relocation or there are issues at home or at school.
Child support can be modified if there is a change in your financial circumstances that would result in your payments increasing or decreasing by 15 percent or more. However, in reducing child support payments you make, any savings in child support could end up spent in attorney's fees. I would rather the money go to your children.
Attorney Consultation
If you have a child custody or support issue, I would like to meet with you in person to discuss your case. To schedule an appointment at my Georgetown or Dover office, please call 866-383-8682 or fill out the contact form on this site.
