Child custody cases in Wexford and throughout Pennsylvania are always based on the unique circumstances that apply, and the children’s best interests always guide outcomes. If you’re facing a child custody case, you need trusted legal counsel in your corner. Our experienced Wexford child custody attorney at The Law Offices of Dawn K. Gull welcomes the opportunity to help you.
PA Courts Don’t Presume
Your Wexford child custody case will likely be heard at the Allegheny County Family Court in Pittsburgh. It’s important to know that Pennsylvania courts do not begin with the presumption that either parent will take on the primary custodial role or that physical custody will be split 50/50.
Instead, child custody is always determined on a case-by-case basis, and the children’s best interests always prevail. Keeping the court’s best interest factors in mind is an important aspect of protecting your rights as a parent in your child custody case.
How Your Parenting Relates to Your Children’s Best Interests
Pennsylvania courts consider how well each parent aligns with the factors that represent the children’s best interests. This makes it important to consider your own parenting in this context.
Ensuring Your Children’s Safety
The court will carefully consider which parent is better able or more willing to ensure the children’s ongoing health, safety, and overall well-being. The degree to which your parenting reflects this focus to date will be taken into careful consideration. Any concerns that relate to abuse or neglect, domestic violence, or continued risk of harm will garner serious attention.
Supporting Ongoing Contact with Your Children’s Other Parent
Whenever it’s in the children’s best interest, Pennsylvania courts prefer for both parents to spend a significant amount of time with their children. Effective co-parenting is valued, and this includes supporting your ex’s close relationship with your shared children.
Being Involved in the Children’s Lives
Being an effective parent is about more than simply showing up. Children require care, and each parent’s involvement in providing them with this care is of critical concern to the court. This includes basics like the following:
- Maintaining a safe, clean home for your children to live in
- Providing your children with nutritious meals
- Addressing your children’s personal hygiene
- Participating in your children’s education, which includes meeting with their teachers and attending their school events
- Addressing your children’s medical needs and getting them to their doctor and dentist appointments
Don’t wait to consult with a practiced child custody lawyer.
Turn to Our Experienced Wexford Child Custody Lawyer for the Help You Need
Dawn Gull is our seasoned Wexford child custody attorney at The Law Offices of Dawn K. Gull, and she appreciates the importance of your case and has the experience and legal skill to help make a big difference in its outcome. We are on your side and here to help, so please don’t put off reaching out for more information by contacting us online or giving our firm a call at 412-440-5718 today.