Child Custody Lawyer In Maryland: Protecting Children In Family Disputes
In many ways, children are the true casualties of divorce. While parents experience pain and loss, sons and daughters face fear and uncertainty. This trauma affects not only their relationships with their parents but also with others in their lives.
Child custody attorney Michael Gast is committed to protecting children from divorce trauma. Through his practice at Law Offices of Michael Gast, he has witnessed how parents use children as pawns to get what they want. While parents splitting up have an impact, parents at war with each other can cause sheer devastation.
Putting Children’s Best Interests In Custody Cases
As a child custody attorney, Mr. Gast has seen too many parents disparage each other in front of their children. Up to a certain age, kids become keenly aware of their parents’ less-than-civil behavior and remember it for the rest of their lives. With firsthand experience and insight into these “wars,” he strives to achieve a balance between aggressive representation for his clients and compassion for their children.
There is no substitute for experience in retaining an attorney to handle a primary custody or legal custody case. These legal issues are both very personal and legally complex. You need an attorney who has witnessed the ugly side of divorce. For more than 20 years, Mr. Gast has put the best interests of children first in custody matters and encouraged his clients to do the same.
Contested child custody cases are financially damaging as well. You can spare your children the battle while sparing yourself the expense, both personal and financial, through mediation.
Child Custody FAQs: Some Insight Into Maryland Family Law
Divorce can be challenging, especially when it comes to child custody. Below are answers to common questions to help divorcing couples make informed decisions.
How is child custody determined in Frederick, Maryland?
In Frederick, as throughout Maryland, courts decide custody based on the “best interests of the child.” With this, the court may award joint custody, where parents share responsibilities, or sole custody to one parent. Judges prefer arrangements that allow children to maintain healthy relationships with both parents when safe and possible.
What factors does the court consider in a child custody case?
When deciding custody arrangements, courts consider each parent’s capacity to provide care, the child’s age, health and other needs and overall circumstances. The court also looks at any history of violence or abuse and the child’s preference, if they are mature enough to express one. Ultimately, the final decision should focus on the child’s well-being.
Can custody arrangements be modified after the initial agreement?
Yes, parents can ask for a custody arrangement modification. The judge can make this modification if they see that it’s absolutely essential to the child’s well-being. Some situations, like a parent receiving military deployment orders, can prompt the court to revisit the arrangement.
Prioritize Your Children’s Well-Being Today
Children thrive on stability and routine–elements that divorce often disrupts. But with the right legal approach, parents can help preserve their children’s emotional well-being during this tough transition. Divorce attorney Michael Gast provides compassionate representation to families throughout Frederick and surrounding counties. To schedule a free initial consultation, complete this online form or call 301-732-6410. Appointments are also available at his Hagerstown office.
