No Matter What You Are Feeling, Ruppert Law Firm Can Guide You

Mt. Lebanon & Greensburg Child Custody Attorneys Protecting Your Kids And Your Relationship With Them

Having a child is usually the most magical time in a person’s life. Good parents will do absolutely anything for their children, and watching your children grow into the adults they will one day become is heartwarming. But that joy can quickly turn sour if your child’s other biological parent doesn’t agree with you about how to parent them.​

The skilled attorneys at Ruppert Law Firm LLC are here to help guide you through child custody proceedings regardless of whether you are going through a divorce or were never married to your co-parent. With office locations in Greensburg and Mt. Lebanon, we are well-positioned to serve clients across Western Pennsylvania. We understand how difficult and stressful this experience can be (for all involved), and we work tirelessly to protect your kids and your rights as a parent.

The Basics Of Child Custody In Pennsylvania

There are two types of custody in the commonwealth, legal and physical. Legal custody is a parent’s authority to make important decisions about their child’s education, medical care, religious upbringing and more. It is often awarded to both parents equally, but certainly not always. Physical custody refers to having the child in your possession and under your care. It must be awarded in the best interests of the child, and courts like to keep both parents involved when possible. Based on more than a dozen considerations, physical custody can be awarded to one parent (sole physical custody), to both parents in equal measure (shared physical custody) or to both parents unequally.

The proposed custody agreement is put into a parenting plan and submitted to a judge for approval. The two parents can negotiate the terms themselves in consultation with their attorneys. This is typically the fastest and easiest way to create a parenting plan, and it gives both parents more control over the terms. If parents cannot reach an agreement (or even sit down to negotiate with one another), each can submit their own parenting plan and leave the decision up to the court.

Our attorneys are here to assist you with any aspect of child custody, including initial orders and petitions for modification. Whether you are concerned about your ex’s parenting abilities, want to spend more time with your kids or want to modify a custody order because your circumstances have changed, we provide the guidance and representation you need.

Frequently Asked Questions About Child Custody In Pennsylvania

Families face a lot of uncertainty during the child custody process. We do not want you to worry. We want parents to have the answers to their questions about the custody process. Here is what you should know:

Can parents negotiate their own custody agreements in Pennsylvania?

Not only can parents negotiate their own custody agreements, but they are also encouraged to do so. Uncontested divorces require parents to come to terms on all important issues, including custody. Couples can often negotiate parenting plans that are more personalized to their needs without the court’s involvement.

What should I do if I cannot reach an agreement on custody with the other parent?

Parents may not agree to the terms of a custody agreement or parenting plan. This can result in a custody dispute, which may need to be settled in court. However, parents can also seek mediation. Mediation can allow parents to negotiate the terms of a custody agreement with the help of a mediator who intends to reach an amicable agreement.

How is child custody determined in Pennsylvania?

If parents cannot agree to a child custody arrangement, the court may decide who will gain custody of their children. However, deciding how an arrangement should be made can take time and deliberation. One of the main factors that the court considers is the best interests of the child.

Several relevant factors are used to determine a child’s best interests, including:

  • The relationship between parents and their children
  • History of abuse, neglect or abandonment
  • A parent’s ability to provide a stable relationship and household
  • Each parent’s mental and physical condition
  • A child’s preference
  • Proximity of each parent’s residences

Parents can present their case of their child’s best interests during a child custody trial. Our attorneys can help prepare parents.

How can I change an existing child custody order in Pennsylvania?

You can change a custody order in Pennsylvania when there is a “material change in circumstances” that affects the child’s best interests. Changes can be effected either by mutual agreement between the parents or a court order.

We Are Here To Listen And To Help – Contact Us Today

At Ruppert Law Firm LLC, we know your children are the most important thing to you in the world, and there is nothing you wouldn’t do to ensure they live the best lives possible.​ We will take that same fierce passion and advocate for you in the courts, allowing you to be the best parent you can be for your kids. We’ll be by your side when you need it the most.

The process starts by discussing your legal options during an initial consultation. We have offices in Greensburg and Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania, and serve clients throughout the surrounding counties. To schedule your first meeting, send us a message online or call 412-730-2187.