Pittsburgh Joint Custody Lawyer

When two parents get divorced, they must arrange how their child will be cared for. Often times, both parties are able to set aside their differences and agree on long-term decisions for their child. This can be done without legal help or with the assistance of an attorney. Not all parents are able to arrive at an agreement on their own, however, making it the court’s responsibility to issue a custody order based on the best interests of the child.

If you are involved in a battle for custody, you are likely worried about losing out on the opportunity to be an active parent. Our Pittsburgh custody attorneys at Pittsburgh Divorce & Family Law, LLC understand the turmoil that can arise in these situations. We will stand by you every step of the way, providing you with information as soon as it becomes available.

Defining Joint Custody

In Pennsylvania, there are two forms of custody. Physical custody is the legal right and responsibility to care for a child on a daily basis, whereas legal custody involves the right to make long-term decisions related to child welfare. The judge will always attempt to arrange a joint custody order, as losing contact with one parent can be detrimental to a child’s health. When custody is truly shared, each parent has equal legal custody and physical custody rights. This means that both parents are allowed input on major decisions, such as those involving health, education, and religion. They also split day-to-day care evenly, with each party being responsible for 50 percent of the child’s time.

Unfortunately, splitting responsibilities down the middle can create practical issues, such as disruption of the child’s daily routine and the unreasonable cost of transportation. Joint custody arrangements should be carefully crafted to benefit the child.

Determining Joint Custody

Custody determination is not a decision that is made lightly. The judge considers dozens of legal elements and it can take months to create an agreement that best serves the child. When the court is considering joint custody, parental cooperation is a major consideration. Whether or not the parents can interact in a civil manner is often a determining factor in the decision to divide parental rights. Other factors that play a large role in joint custody cases include, but are not limited to:

• Can the parents solve problems related to upbringing and child care amongst themselves?
• Are both parents capable of helping the child maintain relationships with other family members?
• Are both parents able to support the child financially?
• Does either parent have any problems related to drug or alcohol abuse?
• Does the child have a stronger connection with one parent?

Let Anthony Piccirilli Protect Your Rights

A custody case can turn your world upside-down. The court can be cold and calculating, and it may feel like your parental rights are being ignored. After all, you only want the opportunity to raise your child in a safe and loving environment.

Our Pittsburgh custody lawyers at Pittsburgh Divorce & Family Law, LLC realize how stressful a battle for custody can be. To show the court you are a loving and responsible parent, we can present your case in the best possible light. We will work tirelessly to advocate for your interests in the court of law. Call attorney Anthony Piccirilli at (412) 471-5100 today to see how your rights can be protected.