Protecting Your Rights And Your Future

Creative, Sensitive Solutions To Child Custody Cases In Northwest Arkansas

Child custody is determined by what is in the best interest of the child. In many cases, however, parents have very different ideas about what is best for their children. To work through custody and visitation issues, you want a lawyer who will protect your rights and your relationship with your child. Whether your family’s legal case is straightforward or the other parent is contesting every point, we can help you through it.

The family law attorneys at Hatfield Harris, PLLC, understand that parents need legal and emotional support during this time.

How Is Child Custody Determined?

There are two primary ways of arriving at a child custody and visitation order. The first is for parents to work together to reach agreements. This approach can involve help from a mediator, who is a neutral party trained in facilitating communication and utilizing strategies for reaching agreements together. While you are not required to mediate custody, the mediation process is often preferable for parents wishing to avoid contentious legal battles.

The other method is for family courts to make determinations if you cannot or will not make them yourselves. In Arkansas, family courts weigh many factors in custody decisions, including:

  • The needs of the child
  • The ability of each parent to provide care
  • The current relationship of the child with each parent
  • The stability of the home and any evidence of parental unfitness

Whether you work with the other parent or go to court, we can help you prepare accordingly and present your case effectively.

Modifying Existing Custody Orders

We can also help you if you are seeking or contesting custody and visitation modifications. Changes can be necessary if the existing child custody or visitation orders are no longer fair or appropriate.

Modifications are often necessary when there are material changes in parental circumstances, like relocation, or a child’s needs. These can be legally complicated cases, and we will work with you to understand your options and find a solution that works for you and your children.

Contact Attorneys Who Care About Your Family

Please call 479-250-1962 or send us an email to schedule a free, no-obligation initial consultation with a Bentonville child custody lawyer. We will talk to you about your case and help you make informed decisions.