Child Custody

Birmingham Child Custody Lawyers

Depend on Our Firm for Vigorous, Client-focused Representation for Your Family

Child custody disputes can be stressful for both you and your children. At King & Green, LLC, we take the time to listen to your specific needs and concerns and to tailor our representation to suit your family’s unique situation. Your child’s best interests are the primary focus for both the court and our attorneys.

Child Custody Orders Vary, Depending on Your Family’s Circumstances

In any situation that involves minor children, whether biological or adopted, the court will establish a child custody order according to the children’s best interests. Child custody orders are broken down into the following categories:

  • Legal custody — The parent with legal custody makes all the major decisions concerning a child’s health, education, religion and welfare.
  • Joint legal custody — If the court chooses to order joint legal custody, each parent shares in making all key decisions about a child.
  • Physical custody — Physical custody orders refer to where a child lives and his or her daily routine.
  • Joint physical custody — In some situations, the court may allow a child to live with each parent equally and each parent participates in making daily decisions.

Typically, the noncustodial parent is also required to pay child support. Child custody orders often include provisions that address potential relocation by the custodial parent. If the custodial parent wants to move, the court will again assess the child’s best interests and may modify the custody order to provide for continued parenting time and visitation for the noncustodial parent.

Factors That Influence a Court’s Custody Decision

Under Alabama family law, there is a rebuttable presumption that joint custody is in a child’s best interests. When making a child custody determination during the divorce process, the court considers several factors, including but not limited to:
  • The age and gender of the child
  • The child’s safety and general well-being
  • Each parent’s willingness to cooperate and communicate with each other
  • Each parent’s ability and capacity to provide moral, emotional, social, financial and educational support for the child
  • Each parent’s age, character and mental and physical health
  • Each parent’s relationship with the child
  • The respective living situation of each parent
If a child has reached a sufficient maturity and age, the court may also consider a child’s personal preferences. In cases with a history of domestic abuse, there is a presumption against granting custody to the abusive parent.

Contact Us to Put Your Child’s Best Interests First and Develop a Practical, Beneficial Custody Arrangement

Custody disputes can lead to contentious and lengthy litigation. At King & Green, LLC, we handle your case efficiently and strive to achieve the results you need. We serve clients throughout Alabama from our Birmingham and Blount County offices. Call us at 205.937.3687 or contact us online to discuss your case today.

Share by: