What Are My Custody Rights While I’m Getting Divorced?
Child custody is a crucial issue in divorce. While you and your spouse may both agree that you want the best for your kids, there can be major differences between what “best” means. At Ruppert Law Firm LLC, we know that many divorcing parents are anxious about how their involvement with their children may change. With offices in Mount Lebanon and Greensburg, we fight for the parental rights of Pennsylvania parents.
Two Kinds Of Custody
Parents retain the same legal rights to custody of their children as they did in marriage, pending a long-term resolution via a settlement agreement or the judge’s decision.
- Physical custody: This means physical control over the child, commonly referred to as a parenting schedule.
- Legal custody: This involves making significant decisions about your child’s schooling, medical care and religious upbringing.
A custody agreement should be developed before one parent moves out to ensure stability for the children during this tumultuous time. At Ruppert Law Firm LLC, we’re ready to assist in drafting a custody agreement to protect your parental rights.
The Challenges Of Child Custody
While it can be beneficial to establish a custody order before one parent moves out of the house, you may have already moved out by the time you read this. While it may have even felt like a practical thing to do, there is the risk of you being accused of abandoning your family. This can make the fight for your parental rights more difficult. That being said, it is challenging to lose custody based solely on moving out, unless the separation is prolonged and without communication.
If your soon-to-be ex-spouse tries to keep you from seeing your kids, an emergency custody order is possible. At Ruppert Law Firm LLC, we’re ready to help handle whatever issues may come up.
When Does Child Support Start?
In Pennsylvania, divorce does not need to be official for child support payments to be in effect. A court order is required to collect child support, but it can take place during the separation process. The higher-earning spouse is often the one who makes the payments. Also, you can request child support after proving paternity even if you are unmarried.
Can Custody Orders Change?
If you are unhappy with a signed custody agreement, it can be modified. The court can change custody arrangements if they serve the best interest of the children, especially after significant life changes like a new job or moving to a new home.
Divorce is complicated, and worrying about its impact on your children can significantly add to your stress. At Ruppert Law Firm LLCwe offer compassionate guidance and support during this process while we fight for your parental rights. Don’t hesitate to contact us through our number 412-730-2187 or through our contact form.
Getting divorced is hard. We’ll help you get through it as we fight for the best possible outcome for you and your children.