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Segalas Law Firm

The Segalas Law Firm - Matrimonial and Family Law Firm - Bergen, Essex, Morris and Passaic Counties, New Jersey

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  • About
  • Practice Areas
    • Divorce & Family Law
      • Custody & Child Support
      • Domestic Violence
    • Mediation & Arbitration
    • Municipal Law & Criminal Law
      • DWI/DUI
      • Traffic Tickets
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      • Residential Real Estate
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Do You Need a Lawyer to Draft a Custody Agreement?

child custody lawyer

Having a family is the ultimate goal for many people. Unfortunately, not every couple lives happily ever after — and in many cases, the children you share might become the central point of tension during your divorce.

Although you and your ex may both want the best for your kids, you may have different ideas of what that entails. And because parents understandably want to spend as much time as possible with their children, it’s essential to establish details like custody, visitation, and financial support right away to avoid problems down the line. Let’s take a closer look at what custody agreements typically include and the role that child custody lawyers play in drafting them.

What Is a Custody Agreement?

A custody agreement, sometimes known as a parenting plan, is a physical document that outlines the details of physical and legal custody of children shared by co-parents. This agreement pertains to how parents will provide for the well-being of their children and includes issues like living arrangements, parental visits, and decisions about healthcare and education. Parenting plans can also address issues like vacations and holidays as they pertain to custody and visitation.

There are typically three different types of child custody agreements in New Jersey, though every case is different. In this agreement, you’ll often establish whether parents will have joint legal custody or shared legal and physical custody. With joint legal custody, one parent serves as the primary residential guardian while both parents make decisions about their children together. In a shared legal and physical custody arrangement, parents might divide time and living arrangements equally. Another option is to grant sole legal and physical custody to only one parent. This is typically utilized when one parent is deemed unfit or absent, though it can also be a voluntary designation.

Is a Lawyer Required to Write Up a Custody Agreement?

Nothing in the law prevents people from representing themselves and crafting their own agreements. However, failing to address necessary issues in your custody agreement early on can lead to problems later. If you and your former spouse can’t agree on how to establish legal and physical custody, you may not be able to draft an arrangement on your own.

When Should You Consult a Child Custody Lawyer?

In many amicable divorces, both parents may actually agree on how custody should be resolved. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t still need help from a skilled family law attorney. Even if you and your former spouse reach a consensus on how parenting time should be divided, you may still need help determining the terms of joint custody, the details of your parenting plan, or how financial support should be calculated. Working with a lawyer adept at handling child custody can ensure that you and your children are protected and that important details aren’t overlooked.

Of course, in more contentious divorces, it may be necessary to work with child custody lawyers from the start. If your former partner intends to file for sole custody or plans to relocate, it’s especially important to have a lawyer’s assistance in drafting a fair and legal custody arrangement. Having an experienced lawyer by your side will ensure you have someone fighting for your parental rights and the best interests of your children, especially if the case ends up going to court.

Drafting a custody arrangement is the best way to protect the best interests of everyone involved in your divorce case. In many instances, it’s best to have help from a qualified child custody attorney to ensure an optimal outcome. For more information on how we can assist you in your child custody case, please contact Segalas Law Firm today.

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CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

A true professional
September 29, 2018
A true professional, caring and compassionate - Steven handled a complicated emotional post-divorce matter for me with all of the expertise and grit you would expect from a top Family Law Attorney, but Steven also has a deep care and concern for his clients best interest as a whole long after the matter is settled that I am proud to say for anyone considering him for your matter you should meet him and see for yourself. I'm sure you will feel as confident as I did that he is a Top Choice Attorney.
- Anthony
Great Attorney
June 21, 2018
Steven Segalas truly cares for his clients. He is knowledgeable, kind and a great negotiator! Served as my attorney for a difficult child support case and handled challenges with ease. He’s the one to have on your side. Would highly recommend him.
- Luis
Great Attorney
February 13, 2018
He knows his business as an attorney and keeps you updated. He is not only an advocate in court but outside of it. I cannot recommend him enough.
- Anonymous
Professional and Supportive
July 17, 2015
I absolutely do not know where I would be without him. I went through a 3 year divorce where my ex-husband changed lawyers numerous times. Steven was on top of every single aspect of my case and was there for me every single step of the way, he even spent Valentine’s Day in mediation with me. In addition to handling the divorce, Steven also represented me in my Domestic Violence Case against my ex-husband and secured a FRO (formal restraining order). The trial revealed very personal, embarrassing and painful information. Steven was nothing but professional and supportive. If you are looking for an attorney, you will be in excellent hands with him. Even when you are at your worst, he will hand you a tissue and make you smile!
- Bonnie
Outstanding Family Law Attorney
March 27, 2015
Steven M. Segalas is an outstanding Family Law attorney. I have worked with Steven as an adversary on many cases. Steven is an expert on Family Law. He is always up to date on statutes, Rules of Court and case law which bears on the cases we have handled together. I respect Steven’s strong advocacy for his clients. Steven knows when to fight and when to compromise. This is the true sign of a great Family Law attorney.
- Faith
A Great Attorney
March 16, 2015
A great attorney handled my divorce. My divorce and subsequent child custody matters were quite involved. Mr. Segalas was thoughtful and helpful throughout the process. He employed some out of the box thinking that allowed me to continue to have healthcare for myself and my children during a very trying time in my life. I always felt protected in court. Mr. Segalas was always ready to respond to whatever allegation was made in my direction from opposing counsel. I was very happy with his service.
- Anonymous
Fast-precise-no BS
March 10, 2015
Steve worked his magic to saved me from the X….Saved me thousands! Fast-precise-no BS. I would use Steve without second thoughts knowing you will be in the best of care & guidance!
- Mark
Great Attorney
February 27, 2014
My attorney makes ME a priority. He always explains the legal divorce process in terms that I can understand; and he has the ability to answer all of my divorce questions. The office is well-staffed for the follow up. My attorney has a team of lawyers and legal assistants trained to guide me through the divorce process and fight for my best interests. My attorney always presents a clear plan which includes all steps of divorce, information I need to gather, and a fee schedule. My attorney raise other issues I had not thought of yet that could have significant ramifications for the short-term and long-term success of my divorce. I go with my attorney who addresses my fears and concerns; exudes confidence and feels like a good fit for me ????
- Mark
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Hillsdale, NJ 07642
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Latest News

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Apr 14

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DISCLAIMER

The material presented on this website is intended for general information purposes only and is not offered, nor should be construed, as legal advice on any specific matter or circumstance. No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court of New Jersey. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. The information contained in this website is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, a lawyer-client relationship nor is it intended to substitute for the advice of an attorney. This website constitutes Attorney Advertising.

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