In Pennsylvania, parents seek child custody during divorce cases. When the parents cannot agree upon a custody arrangement, the court requires them to participate in a separate hearing. During the hearing, each side has the opportunity to present their case. Child custody lawyers in Lancaster County, PA provide a legal avenue for these parents.
Shared Child Custody
Shared child custody provides each party with equal time with the child. The arrangement provides them with equal decision-making power. They decide together about where the child goes to school. The parents work together to determine what doctor provides medical care and how to manage the child’s health care needs. The parents also determine what religious affiliation the child follows.
Sole Custody Arrangements
Sole custody arrangements provide one parent with all decision-making power. They don’t have to ask the other parent for their opinion on these choices. Typically, these arrangements indicate that one of the parents presents a risk to the child. In the custody hearing, a parent must provide clear evidence of the risk. For example, if the risk is drug or alcohol addiction, the parent must show evidence of the addiction and how it affects the child directly.
When Are Parental Rights Terminated?
Parental rights are terminated when a parent poses a serious risk to the child. This could include evidence that proves that the parent abused the child. It could also present evidence of domestic violence against the child. In these cases, a parent can petition the court to terminate the parent’s rights completely.
When Are Modifications Allowed?
Modifications are allowed when new evidence is available. For example, if a parent with custody of the child presents a serious risk to the child, the non-custodial parent can petition the court for custody.
In Pennsylvania, parents petition the court for custody when they cannot arrive at an agreement in the divorce. Typically, these cases follow a divorce trial. The custody hearing is separate from the divorce and provides each party a chance to present evidence. A parent who needs to speak with child custody lawyers in Lancaster County, PA can contact the Law Office of Melissa R. Montgomery for an appointment today.
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