Child custody laws are complex. Almost any court anywhere in this country seeks to provide contact of both parents with the children in a divorce. Most of the time the intention is meant for both parents to have equal custody and equal contact. In cases where domestic violence can be proven, things start to get a little sticky. Child custody lawyers in Denton,TX for example have slightly different approaches for child custody than say, someone in a neighboring state. Likewise, if one parent is in Denton and the other parent is out of state, it becomes really complex.
How Does Family Violence Impact Child Custody?
For the parent that has not been accused or convicted of violence, it may seem quite unfair that the violent ex-partner still has a right to see the children. The children still have a right to see both parents in the eyes of the court, but how custody and time spent with parents may be mitigated differently.
Splitting Custody
So, how does family violence impact child custody? If there is substantial evidence supporting your claim of domestic violence against your former partner, the judge has to take that into consideration. It may just be that the custody isn’t split equally.
Primary placement is often with the parent where the child’s best interests provide a safe home in which to live. Particularly violent cases where an ex-partner has come close to killing you or the children may still, surprisingly, result in an award of time spent with that parent, but under strict supervision.
If you need to discuss your case with child custody lawyers in Denton, TX, contact Orsinger, Nelson, Downing and Anderson, LLP,
