Davidsonville, Maryland Child Custody Lawyers
Experienced Attorneys for Legal and Physical Custody in Davidsonville, MD
When divorce has you stressed and uncertain about your future, it can be difficult to put those emotions aside to make the best decisions for your children. Maryland courts require you to make those choices based on your children's best interests, but you and your spouse may disagree about how to accomplish that goal as you address issues related to child custody and create a parenting plan. Some couples, whether married or not, become embroiled in arguments that shift their focus away from their children's needs.
At Law Office of Kari H. Fawcett, we understand the many challenges you are facing. Through lengthy conversations, we will support and guide you as you consider your options, always using clear language so you understand how they may affect you and your children. Our 50+ years of combined experience gives us a wealth of knowledge about the most effective ways to customize your parenting plan and child custody agreement to meet your family's unique needs. Arrange your complimentary case evaluation today.
Child Custody and Parenting Plans in Davidsonville, Maryland
Most parents are extremely protective of their children, doing everything they can to defend them against harm. Parental separation and divorce are not easy for children, and it is natural to try to maintain stability for them. Arrangements that work well for other families may be detrimental to yours. Devising a customized parenting plan can help you minimize the disruption to your children's lives.
Although you and your spouse may disagree about most things, crafting workable plans in matters involving your children is vital. If you cannot reach an agreement with the other parent through negotiations or mediation, Maryland courts may make decisions about your children that you and your spouse will both have to uphold.
Using generic agreements is usually unsuccessful because they do not account for things like your children's preferences, your work schedule, or factors that may make one parent unsuitable. When your plans are unique and address your specific circumstances, there is a much better likelihood of you and your spouse agreeing.
Your children's ages are important when making parenting plans. If they are old and mature enough, their preferences about their living situation should be considered. Parents of older teens may need to accommodate their children's extracurricular activities, schooling, work schedules, and job locations. Young children's needs are vastly different from older children's.
If you have more than one child, you may make different arrangements for each to best meet their individual needs and best interests. At Law Office of Kari H. Fawcett, we will carefully consider all factors, and we will work closely with you to draft a child custody agreement that will protect your rights as a parent and reflect your children's best interests.
Extenuating Circumstances in Davidsonville Child Custody Matters
In some cases, allowing the other parent to have equal rights and access would not serve your children's best interests. Examples of situations where you may face concerns about your children's safety and well-being include:
- A history of child abuse, neglect, abandonment, or endangerment
- A history of criminal activities
- Issues related to substance abuse
- A history of manipulating you by using your children
- Mental health concerns
- A history of domestic violence
Let your attorney know if your spouse is likely to attempt to drive a wedge between you and your children. If you must protect your children from their other parent, your lawyer will explain various measures you could take, such as seeking a protective order. Together, we can make these tough decisions while focusing on protecting your children from harm.
Contact Our Davidsonville Child Custody Attorneys
A one-size-fits-all approach to child custody does not serve your children's best interests. When you choose Law Office of Kari H. Fawcett, we will help you develop a customized plan with confidence. Call us at 301-262-5500 or contact us online to speak to one of our dedicated Davidsonville family law attorneys. Your initial consultation is free.