Whether one is going through a divorce, child custody dispute, or legal separation, it’s important to learn about Missouri’s family laws. In this guide, readers will learn about several important family law topics. If there are additional questions, contact a Divorce Law Lawyer in Lee’s Summit MO.
The Courts
No matter whether the case involves a divorce or a child support modification, paperwork must be filed with the Circuit Court in the county in which either spouse resides.
Child Custody Factors
If parents share custody of a child and they go through a divorce, separation, or are requesting sole custody, they must file a custody petition with the correct court. When determining who gets joint or sole custody, the presiding judge will consider these factors:
* The parents’ wishes and potential parenting plans
* The child’s need to maintain a meaningful relationship with each parent, as well as the parents’ ability and willingness to facilitate it
* The child’s relationships with siblings, parents, and others who may affect their best interests
* The child’s level of adjustment to the community, home, and school
* The parents’ physical and mental health, as well as any past abuse
* The child’s wishes
* Parents’ potential relocation plans
Child Support and Custody Modifications
According to Missouri’s family laws, only judges can alter support or custody orders. Even if parents agree out of court, the agreement isn’t legally binding. Rather, the parents should hire a custody or Divorce Law Lawyer in Lee’s Summit MO for help filing a motion for modification.
Fathers’ Rights
Missouri family law judges aren’t supposed to give preference to either gender in decisions on child support, custody, or divorce. This simply means that mothers and fathers are on equal footing in court, and they have an equal ability to petition the state’s courts for support and custody. When seeking support or custody, fathers must prove that an award would be in the child’s best interests.
Divorces, child custody battles, and child support negotiations are complex, and parents shouldn’t go through them alone. Visit the website to learn more about the firm or call today to schedule a consultation with an experienced divorce lawyer. You can also visit them on Google My Business.
