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No loving parent wants to lose time with their children, which is why custody is often the most contentious aspect of divorce proceedings. If you’re facing a complicated custody battle, a lot could be at stake. Since family law varies from state to state, it’s essential to turn to a local attorney for legal guidance. It’s also wise to review the basic laws where you live so that you know what to expect during the proceedings. Below, Gilbert P. Kaback, Attorney at Law, in Colchester, CT, explains what parents should know about family law.

3 Factors of Child Custody in Connecticut

1. Joint Custody Is the Goal

Family law judges in Connecticut do not favor mothers over fathers when awarding custody. At the end of the day, they care about the best interests of the children, and in most cases, that means devising some kind of joint custody arrangement. It might not be logistically possible for each parent to have the children for exactly 50% of the time, but in most families, it’s in the kids’ best interests to maintain a close relationship with both parents and continue seeing each on a regular basis.

2. Parents Have More Power Than They Realize

family lawIf the parents can agree on a reasonable custody arrangement that prioritizes their children’s best interests, the judge will sign off on it. Since anything the court devises is unlikely to take into account the nuances of both of your schedules, it’s worth trying to negotiate for custody outside of court. With the help of a seasoned family law attorney, you might be able to secure a favorable arrangement that works for everyone.

3. Older Children Can Have a Say

Although children cannot make the final decision regarding where they live, most judges in Connecticut will consider their preferences if they are at least 13 years old. After hearing the child’s wishes, the court will review the circumstances of the case to determine if they are in line with a valid arrangement. When speaking with children about their preferences, judges are more concerned with big-picture reasons, like which parent they are closer with, than with smaller, less important reasons, like which parent sets a later bedtime. 

If you need help navigating divorce proceedings and want to secure the most favorable custody arrangement possible, turn to Gilbert P. Kaback, Attorney at Law. Based in Colchester, this seasoned lawyer has been representing clients in a variety of practice areas for more than two decades. You can explore more about his firm by visiting his website. To schedule an initial consultation with this family law attorney, call (860) 537-0874 today. 

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