Child Custody and Visitation Attorney in Washington, D.C.  

Many parents are concerned about their children’s safety after divorce. If you are involved in a child custody dispute, it is important to have an attorney who can protect your rights as a father. At Browne Family Law, our legal team has decades of combined experience working with divorcing parents in Washington, D.C.  

We have a thorough understanding of the legal issues that come into play during a custody dispute and we are dedicated to providing you with effective counsel. We are ready to protect both your parental rights and your children’s safety even if it means going through extended litigation. 

How Do Courts Determine Child Custody?  

There are two types of child custody: legal and physical. Legal custody refers to the ability to make decisions regarding a child’s health, education, social activities, religion, etc.  

Physical custody determines which parent the child will live with and how much time each parent will spend with their child. 

Most courts in Washington D.C. prefer to award joint legal custody to both parents, while physical custody is typically awarded to one parent at a time. This allows for frequent and uninterrupted parenting time between children and their non-custodial parents.  

How Is Child Visitation Determined? 

In Washington D.C., a parenting plan is required for divorcing parents to establish visitation rights and responsibilities. In addition, each parent’s level of involvement in their children’s lives must be outlined in the parenting plan, including information on how often they will speak with one another and other non-custodial parents.  

Child Support and Alimony 

In addition to child custody and visitation, Browne Family Law also handles child support and alimony cases in Washington D.C.  

Child support is most often awarded when one parent has a higher income than their co-parent and is considered the primary caregiver of the children. Similarly, alimony may be granted if one spouse has sacrificed a career to care for the other spouse and children.  

If you are going through a divorce, speak with our team of family law attorneys at Browne Family Law today. We understand the sensitive nature of child custody cases and will work hard to protect your rights in court. Call (202) 670-5291 to schedule an appointment. 

Modification of Child Custody 

Once a parent gains custody of their child, they may face several challenges regarding the other parent’s involvement in their lives. Under certain circumstances, you can petition your court to modify your current parenting plan. 

Before you file a petition for modification, keep in mind that it may not be approved. However, there are several legitimate reasons why you should consider filing for custody modification including: 

• A significant change in the child’s home environment or school 
• A parent has stopped exercising parenting time privileges 
• The child’s preference 

In addition to these legitimate reasons, you may seek a modification of your parenting plan if the other parent has been found guilty of abuse. You must be able to prove that there was significant harm or threat of harm to your child as a result of the abuse.

If you are unable to agree with the other parent on parenting plan details, our child custody attorney can help you present your case before a judge. Schedule your free consultation today by calling (202) 670-5291 or send us a message on our LiveChat section.