CHILD CUSTODY

In every case where parents are not living together or are divorcing, the custody of minor children must be determined by a court. The term “physical custody” refers to the residence of a child with one or the other parent (sometimes both) and the term “legal custody” refers to the right of both parents to be involved in making major decisions regarding a child’s education, health, religion and welfare.   In most cases either one parent is granted sole physical custody (the child lives primarily with one parent), or the parties share physical custody through a parenting plan.  Custody is often an emotional and bitterly contested issue.

We are neither a “fathers’ rights” law firm nor a “mothers’ rights” law firm.  We focus on our client’s rights and what is in the best interest of the child.

In a contested custody case a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) may be appointed by the court to investigate and give a recommendation regarding custody and visitation.

Other issues that may arise in a custody case include grandparent visitation, interstate or international disputes (where the parties live in different states or one lives in another country) or the desire by one parent to remove a child from Massachusetts to another state or country.

If you are facing custody issues regarding your minor children, Kerstein, Coren & Lichtenstein is ready to represent you.