Child Custody Lawyer Indianapolis

Legal matters involving your children can be challenging and emotional. At Curlin & Clay Law, we provide families in Indianapolis with the authoritative legal representation and compassionate support necessary to handle these sensitive issues. Our lawyers will help you protect your parental rights while prioritizing your children.

What are the types of child custody arrangements in Indiana?

Understanding the terminology used in Indiana family law is the first step toward a successful resolution. The state recognizes two main types of custody, which can be awarded jointly or solely to one parent.

• Legal Custody: This refers to the right and responsibility to make significant decisions concerning the child’s upbringing. These decisions include matters related to their education, healthcare, and religious instruction. Joint legal custody, where both parents share decision-making authority, is often preferred by Indiana courts as it encourages cooperation.
• Physical Custody: This dictates where the child will primarily reside. The parent with physical custody is responsible for the child’s daily care and supervision. The other parent is granted parenting time (formerly known as visitation). Physical custody can also be shared jointly, where the child spends significant time living with both parents.

How is child custody determined by Indiana courts?

When parents cannot reach an agreement on their own, the court will intervene to make a custody determination. The guiding principle in every decision is the “best interests of the child.” A judge will consider different factors to create an arrangement that best supports the child’s physical and emotional well-being.

Factors the court considers include:

• The age and sex of the child.
• The wishes of the parents.
• The child’s preference, with more weight given to older and more mature children.
• The child’s adjustment to their home, school, and community.
• The mental and physical health of all parties
• Evidence of a pattern of domestic or family violence.
• The interaction and relationship of the child with their parents, siblings, and anyone else who may significantly affect the child’s best interests.

A lawyer can help you gather and present the evidence needed to demonstrate how your proposed arrangement serves your child’s best interests.

Legal Guidance for Your Family’s Future

Child custody cases require a balance of assertive legal advocacy and compassionate understanding. The lawyers at Curlin & Clay Law are skilled negotiators and formidable litigators who are prepared to protect what matters most to you. We provide legal strategies tailored to your unique circumstances, whether through collaborative mediation or in the courtroom.

If you are facing a child custody matter in Indianapolis, you need a trusted legal partner at your side. Contact Curlin & Clay Law today to schedule a confidential consultation. Let us provide the guidance and support your family deserves.