Melrose, Massachusetts, Child Custody And Visitation Rights Lawyers For Middlesex County And Essex County And Southern New Hampshire

No matter how frustrated you may be with your spouse; no matter how terrible you may think your husband or wife is; no matter how much your children may not want much to do with the other parent, there is something important you will have to know about custody in Massachusetts and New Hampshire: The courts expect both parents to remain involved in their children’s lives. Custody does not mean ownership. Except under dire circumstances in which it can be demonstrated the children would be in danger, you should expect the courts to award meaningful parenting time to both parents.

If your pending divorce or paternity litigation matter in Middlesex County, Essex County or southern New Hampshire will include custody concerns, talk to an attorney at Martino Law Group, today. Our lawyers have more than 40 combined years of experience working with child welfare specialists, guardian ad litem professionals and family social services to make sure children’s interests remain paramount in divorce and custody litigation.

Why Not Just Settle For A 50-50 Split?

Massachusetts and New Hampshire laws take into account a variety of factors when determining child custody and child support. In the first place, judges know that providing a steady primary home is important for a child’s well-being. Splitting the time equally between both parents typically means moving the child back and forth frequently and does not necessarily result in quality parenting time for the parents. In addition, the amount of parenting time is a key consideration when determining child support awards. The more time a parent has with a child, the less the monthly obligation is likely to be. While this may seem like a better financial deal for the obligor (paying) parent, it does not typically turn out to provide a proper level of support necessary for the upbringing of the child. A 50-50 split may seem equitable to the parents, but it does not keep the child’s best interest at heart.

We believe that an amicable approach is the only positive way to resolve custody and parenting disputes between spouses. We know that egos are involved and parents are often very worried about losing influence with their children but dragging the kids through a court battle is not the answer.