Divorce Attorneys and Child Custody Lawyers in Hartford

Connecticut child custody law can be rather complex to navigate alone. If you are getting divorced in Connecticut, it is important to understand your rights under Connecticut family court. Connecticut courts grant three different types of child custody: joint-custody (in which both parents remain the child’s legal guardians), sole custody (in which one parent remains the child’s legal guardian), or third-party custody (in which a person other than the child’s biological parents attains custody of the child).

A joint custody ruling under Connecticut law requires parents to consult together in order to make decisions regarding the education, health care, and religious needs of the child. A joint-custody agreement will also include provisions to determine where the child will reside. Sometimes, courts award sole-custody to one parent. In general, Connecticut courts favor awarding joint-custody. Sole-custody is awarded when it is determined to be in the child’s best interests. The non-custodial parent will generally retain visitation rights to the child, but one parent will remain the child’s legal guardian.

Divorce and formal separation can be a very difficult time for both parents and children. A child custody lawyer in Hartford can help you negotiate a child-custody agreement that is in the best interests of the child. Melocowsky & Melocwosky are skilled child custody lawyers in Hartford, CT who can help you negotiate the best solution for your family.

Factors the Court Will Review When Determining Child Custody in Connecticut 

Connecticut courts review a variety of factors when determining child custody cases in Connecticut. In every case, the needs and safety of the child are paramount concerns. In many cases of divorce, the parents will be living separately and it is important to determine where the children will primarily reside. The child’s preference and attachment to the parents is taken into consideration when making a determination of where a child will live. Additionally, the parent’s ability to care for the child, relationship with the child, and parental preference are taken into account. Cultural background is sometimes also considered.

In cases where there is a history of abuse or domestic violence, the court may choose to take measures to promote the safety and well-being of the child. Supervised visitation may be recommended in cases where there may have been a history of violence. Mental health of the parents, drug use, and alcohol use are also other factors the courts will consider. Our firm works diligently to ensure that litigation of child custody results in the best outcome for parents and children. Melocowski & Melocowsky have the best interest of the child in mind, and we have been asked by Connecticut courts to serve as Guardians Ad Litem.

Divorce Attorney in Hartford, CT 

Divorce can be one of the most traumatic experiences a person can undergo. The litigation involved can be time-consuming and complex. At Melocowsky & Melocowsky, we have years of experience helping resolve disputes related to division of property, assets, and debt and determining alimony payments. In Connecticut, legal grounds for divorce includes:

• Breakdown of the marriage
• The married individuals have been living apart for 18 months
• Adultery
• Fraud
• Desertion for one year, with neglect
• Seven-years’ desertion with no contact from other party
• Life imprisonment
• Confinement or hospitalization for mental illness

In cases where minors are involved, the court may order parents to participate in a parenting education program. There are situations where this requirement can be waived. In cases where significant division of property must occur, the court will review the contribution of each party in the acquisition of the property. The court will determine the length of the marriage, the reasons for the ending of the marriage, sources of income, age, health, employability, and other estate matters before making a determination.

Divorce can be a very fraught emotional time. You need a divorce lawyer who will fight aggressively for your best interests to ensure the best possible outcome for your case. In cases where child support is needed, an experienced divorce attorney can help you present your case to the courts to ensure that your child’s needs are met. Finally, the law offices of Melocowksy & Melocowsky can help ensure that a proper alimony settlement is made.

 Melocowsky & Melocowsky: Department of Children and Families Law

Melocowsky & Melocowsky are also experienced Department of Children and Families (DCF) lawyers. Doctors, day care workers, foster parents, members of the clergy, police officers, and school employees, among others, are required to report cases of suspected child abuse and neglect. There are very specific reporting procedures for suspected abuse and neglect. Melocowsky & Melocowsky are experienced DCF lawyers in Hartford CT who can help litigate in hearings pertaining to child abuse and neglect.

Divorce and Child Custody Lawyers: Helping Your Family Move Forward

Divorce is a very difficult time for all parties involved, but you don’t need to go through the litigation process alone. Contact Melocowsky & Melocowsky today to seek the best possible divorce and child custody agreement, so that you can move forward with dignity.