New Jersey Child Custody Lawyer

Child Custody in New Jersey

Child custody matters can be among the most challenging aspects of divorce or separation. In New Jersey, the law emphasizes the best interests of the child, ensuring their emotional and psychological needs are a priority. If you’re dealing with a custody dispute or need assistance understanding child custody laws, the Law Office of Valerie Hemhauser, with offices centrally located in Monmouth County, is here to help. Our law firm represents parents who wish to establish or modify child custody in New Jersey and will explain what you can expect and what the family court considers in a child custody application.

Types of Child Custody Determinations

When determining custody, New Jersey courts examine various factors to ensure the child’s needs are met. The main types of child custody arrangements include:

• Joint Legal and Joint Residential Custody
  • Legal Custody: Both parents share the responsibility for making major decisions about the child’s life, including healthcare, education, and welfare.
  • Residential Custody: The child spends equal time between both parents’ homes, allowing for continued involvement from both parents in the child’s day-to-day life. This arrangement works best when parents are cooperative and live near each other to maintain consistency in the child’s routines.
• Sole Legal and Sole Residential Custody
  • Legal Custody: One parent is granted full decision-making authority over important aspects of the child’s life, such as healthcare, education, and religion.
  • Residential Custody: The child primarily lives with one parent, while the non-custodial parent is granted visitation or parenting time.
• Joint Legal Custody with Primary Residential Custody
  • Legal Custody: Both parents continue to share decision-making responsibilities.
  • Residential Custody: The child primarily resides with one parent, but the other parent still maintains significant rights to participate in decisions and visitation.
• Other Custody Arrangements
  New Jersey courts have the flexibility to craft a custody arrangement based on the family’s unique needs, ensuring the best interests of the child are always met.

Statutory Factors for Custody Determinations

When making custody decisions, New Jersey courts follow the guidelines set forth in N.J.S.A. 9:2-4. The law prioritizes the welfare of the child and takes the following factors into consideration:

1. Ability to Communicate and Cooperate: The court examines how well the parents can work together to make important decisions for the child.
2. Willingness to Accept Custody: A parent’s willingness to take on the full responsibility of custody is a key factor in the court’s decision.
3. Relationship with Parents and Siblings: The child’s emotional bond with both parents and siblings is crucial for their well-being.
4. History of Domestic Violence: Any history of domestic violence is taken into account, especially if it affects the child’s safety.
5. Child’s Safety: The court ensures that the child is safe from physical harm in both parents’ homes.
6. Preference of the Child: If the child is old enough (usually 12 years or older), the court may consider their preference regarding custody.
7. Needs of the Child: The court assesses the child’s medical, emotional, and educational needs.
8. Stability of the Home Environment: Stability is essential for the child’s emotional and psychological growth.
9. Quality of Education: The court evaluates the child’s educational environment, ensuring continuity in their schooling.
10. Fitness of the Parents: The physical and mental health of each parent is considered to determine their ability to provide for the child.
11. Geographical Proximity: The distance between the parents’ homes can impact visitation schedules and the child’s routines.
12. Time Spent with the Child: The quality and quantity of time spent with the child before and after separation or divorce.
13. Parents’ Employment Responsibilities: The court will review each parent’s job schedule to determine their ability to care for the child.
14. Age and Number of Children: The court may consider the child’s age and the family’s dynamics when making decisions.

These factors ensure that the court’s decision is focused on the child’s well-being and future development.

Why Contact the Family Law Office of Valerie Hemhauser a Family Law Firm Located in Red Bank, New Jersey

If you are facing a child custody dispute or need legal advice regarding family law, Valerie Hemhauser offers compassionate and experienced representation. Here’s why you should contact us:

• Expertise in Family Law: Valerie has extensive experience acquired over 3 decades handling complex child custody cases, alimony disputes, and other family law matters throughout New Jersey.
• Personalized Legal Strategies: Every family is unique, which is why she tailors our legal strategies to meet your specific needs.
• Commitment to Your Family’s Best Interests: Our primary goal is to ensure that your child’s best interests are protected throughout the legal process.
• Responsive and Supportive: Valerie is dedicated to providing prompt and effective communication, keeping you informed at every step of your case.
• Convenient Location: Our office is located in Red Bank centrally located in Monmouth County, making it easy for clients from surrounding areas to access our services.

Contact Us Today

If you’re involved in a child custody dispute, need help with related child support or alimony issues, or are navigating divorce proceedings in New Jersey, our team is here to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your family. Ready to discuss your family law matter? Contact the Law Office of Valerie Hemhauser today at (732) 842-9993 or fill out the online contact form to schedule a consultation.

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