When going through a divorce, one of the most emotional and complex issues is determining what happens to the children. Who will they live with primarily? Should you have equal parenting time? Will you share legal decision-making, or is it better for the child if you seek sole legal custody?
In any of these scenarios, the guidance of an experienced custody attorney in Tempe can make all the difference.
Divorces involving children require careful consideration and a clear focus on what’s best for the child, which is why the guidance and services of a trusted Arizona custody lawyer are essential.
Navigating child custody matters can be both stressful and confusing. At The Peterson Law Firm, our experienced Tempe child custody attorneys work closely with you to create a parenting plan that meets your family’s needs and protects your rights.
We also offer guidance on family law matters to provide full support throughout your case.
Arizona law has recently updated the terminology used in child custody matters. The terms “custody” and “visitation” are now referred to as legal decision-making and parenting time.
This change was designed to promote fairness and avoid the perception that one parent has more control than the other. In most cases, courts begin with the presumption that both parents should have equal legal decision-making and parenting time—unless a compelling reason is presented to argue otherwise.
When both parents can cooperate, joint legal decision-making is often awarded. However, in situations involving substance abuse, domestic violence, or other risk factors, one parent may seek sole legal decision-making. To do this, you must present clear evidence to the court as to why shared authority is not in the child's best interest.
Arizona courts prioritize the well-being of the child above all else. Unless there is substantial evidence that parenting time with one parent would endanger the child physically, emotionally, or morally, the court typically allows both parents to have reasonable and equal parenting time.
No matter how complex or amicable your child custody situation may be, The Peterson Law Firm is here to provide the clarity and support you need. Our team will connect you with a knowledgeable Arizona family lawyer who can evaluate your case, explain your rights, and build a strategy tailored to your family’s needs.
We also advocate and represent clients in Arizona divorce, child support, and property division cases.
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Facing a high-conflict custody battle or striving to create a fair, cooperative parenting agreement? The Peterson Law Firm is your legal ally: trusted, experienced, and fully committed to protecting your rights and your child’s future.
We work closely with our clients to develop parenting plans that serve the best interests of the child while honoring the roles of both parents. Whether you need legal custody advice or assistance negotiating parenting time, our trusted Tempe and Phoenix child custody lawyers are committed to helping you move forward with confidence.
Get in touch with our child custody lawyers in Arizona for a free consultation.
We handle child custody cases in the metro Phoenix area and surrounding East Valley communities:
In Arizona, child custody (now referred to as legal decision-making and parenting time) is determined based on the best interests of the child. Courts consider several factors, including each parent’s relationship with the child, the child's adjustment to home and school, any history of domestic violence, and each parent’s ability to cooperate. Our qualified child custody lawyers in Tempe and the East Valley can help present your case effectively.
Legal decision-making gives a parent the right to make major life decisions about the child’s education, healthcare, religion, and personal care. Parenting time refers to the time a parent spends with the child and the daily decisions made during that time. In Arizona, both are considered separately, and the court can grant joint or sole authority for each.
Yes, but Arizona courts favor joint custody unless there is evidence that sole custody is in the child’s best interests.
Factors that may support sole legal decision-making include substance abuse, domestic violence, or neglect by the other parent. Working with a custody attorney in Tempe can help you build a strong case if you believe sole custody is necessary.
While it's possible to represent yourself, having a skilled Arizona custody lawyer on your side greatly improves your chances of reaching a favorable outcome. A lawyer can provide expert legal custody advice, negotiate parenting plans, and represent you in court if needed. The Peterson Law Firm offers free initial consultations for child custody cases in Arizona.
No, child custody orders can be modified if there’s a significant change in circumstances that affects the child’s well-being. This could include a parent relocating, changes in work schedules, or concerns about safety. If you need assistance, our Tempe and Phoenix child custody lawyers can help you file for a modification.
Backed by years of experience, we provide clear, reliable legal custody advice, and our dedicated child custody lawyers in Arizona offer free consultations to help you understand your rights and options from day one.
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We value each and every one of our clients, employees, friends, and neighbors. Together, we have a social responsibility as a community partner to take proactive measures to keep our community well and to help stop the spread of COVID-19.
Our office will remain open during regular business hours. However, we are implementing some additional precautions to limit social interactions and personal proximity. Specifically, we will seek to conduct consultations, meetings, conferences through video teleconferencing or on the phone whenever possible. Should an in-person appointment be needed, then we will coordinate those on an appointment basis.
If you have questions about your case and the status of the court, then please call. Our Firm will continually monitor the status of the coronavirus, so we are prepared to resume normal operations as quickly as possible.
From all of us at The Peterson Law Firm, please stay well.
