The custody of children is one of the most contentious issues a divorcing couple will face. The decisions about where the child or children will live, their schools and extracurricular activities are all important but the most critical concern is what will be in the best interests of the child. A lawyer with experience in child custody cases will help you make the most informed decision you can and build a strong case for your position.

The first step in finding a good child custody attorney is to get referrals from friends and family members who have gone through divorces with children and have had their lawyers represent them in those cases. It is also a good idea to search the internet for attorneys who specialize in child custody cases. This will give you a wide variety of options to choose from.

You will want to find an attorney who is experienced in child custody cases and who has a strong track record of winning those cases. You will also want to look at their fees and rates to see if they are within your budget. Most attorneys will charge an hourly rate for their services, so be sure you know what this is before hiring them.

Once you have found a few attorneys who seem to fit your requirements you will need to schedule a consultation with each of them. At this meeting the attorney will begin to explain how they will approach your case and begin building a plan for moving forward. If you have any concerns or questions at this time you should bring them up with the attorney so they can address those as well.

A solid child custody lawyer will prepare a strategy for your specific case that may include testimonies from outside experts like a child custody evaluator. They will gather documentation of your financial ability to care for the child or children and will present evidence about your relationship with them. They will also prepare you for court hearings where you will be asked to respond to allegations by the other parent of abuse or neglect.

There are many complexities involved in child custody cases and it is a very difficult process for most couples to go through. Having an experienced child custody attorney on your side can help you work through the process quickly and efficiently, making it less stressful for everyone involved. A lawyer will also be able to ensure that all of your legal rights are protected and that the outcome you desire is achieved. So be sure to consult with a qualified Phoenix family lawyer today. You will be glad you did.