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After a divorce, many couples must reach a child custody agreement to ensure their youngest family members live in a stable environment and have access to vital resources. As an experienced family law team, Mingus Law Office of Columbia, MO, guides clients through the custody process, so the resulting arrangement is fair to both children and parents. Below, the firm answers some of the most frequently asked questions about this topic.

Child Custody FAQs

How Do Courts Award Custody?

Courts award custody based on what is in the best interests of the minor children. While this may sound straightforward, it is often complex. The judge will consider various factors to decide what is best for the child, including each parent’s income, physical and mental health, and home environment. The judge will also consider the quality of the child's relationship with each parent. Children who are over 10 years old can express their preferences; while this is not a deciding factor in awarding custody, the judge can use this information when weighing the possible outcomes.

What Are Some Common Child Custody Arrangements?

child custodyIn the state of Missouri, there are several custody arrangements a court might select. They include include:

  • Joint Physical & Legal Custody: The children live with both parents more or less equally, and both parents can make legal decisions on behalf of the child.
  • Sole Custody: One parent has physical and legal custody; the other may have visitation rights, depending on the details of the custody order.
  • Joint Legal Custody & Sole Physical Custody: A child lives with just one parent, but both can make legal decisions for the child.

Who Pays Child Support?

This varies on a case by case basis. In many situations, support is paid by the noncustodial parent, with whom the child does not live. If joint custody is awarded, the parent with a higher income is often required to pay child support. Your attorney will help you understand the factors the judge will consider when determining the appropriate payments.

Do I Need to Make a Parenting Plan?

Yes. Under Missouri law, at least one parent must submit a plan before child custody is awarded. This document helps parents who are no longer living together as they raise their children; it is a way of identifying the child’s needs and goals, so everyone on the same page. A comprehensive parenting plan can be a powerful tool that prioritizes your children and maintains peace within the family.

Child custody can be a delicate legal matter, so make sure you have the legal support you need every step of the way. The experts at Mingus Law Office will work with you to attain a favorable outcome and develop an effective parenting plan, so you can have a healthy relationship with your children. To schedule a consultation, call (573) 443-5202. Visit the firm online to learn more about their practice areas.

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