We understand that family law matters involving children can often be the most stressful. Whether you are going through a divorce and trying to establish a custody agreement, or would like to modify an existing agreement, it is crucial to have an experienced child custody lawyer on your side to guide you through the process.

Our child custody attorneys will explain the law, how it applies to your case, and help determine the best option for you and your family. The child custody lawyer team and The Kulick Law firm will fight to protect both you and your child’s best interests.

Child Custody in Pennsylvania

There are two types of custody in Pennsylvania.

• Physical custody refers to who the child lives with. One parent may have primary physical custody, or the parents may share custody.
• Legal custody is a parent’s right to make major medical, education, religious, and legal decisions on behalf of a minor child. Parents can share legal custody, or one parent may be granted the sole right to make decisions for the child.

Best Interest Factors

During a custody action, the judge will make custody decisions that are in the child’s best interests. When deciding custody, the court will consider:

• Performance of parental duties;
• The child's need for stability and continuity in education, family, and community life;
• Relationships with extended family;
• Sibling relationships;
• Child preference (based on the child's maturity and judgment);
• Attempts by either parent to turn the child against the other (except in cases of domestic abuse);
• Willingness to foster a relationship between the child and the other parent;
• Ability to maintain a loving, stable, consistent, and nurturing relationship with the child;
• The child's physical, emotional, developmental, educational, and special needs;
• Geographical proximity of the parents;
• Level of conflict between the parents and their willingness to cooperate;
• Availability to care for the child or make appropriate child-care arrangements;
• Each parent's physical and mental health;
• Any history of drug or alcohol abuse; and
• Any other relevant factors.

The court may issue a child custody order that explains parenting exchanges, holiday visitation, transportation, physical and legal custody, and other relevant issues. The goal of the child custody order is to eliminate potential arguments by resolving disagreements before they arise.

Modifying Child Custody Orders

A custody order can be in place until the child turns 18 or is emancipated; however, child custody orders may be changed as the parents’ circumstances evolve. Pennsylvania law allows parents to seek a modification to the child custody order when it is in the best interest of the child.

Contact an Experienced Child Custody Lawyer at The Kulick Law Firm

At The Kulick Law Firm, we proudly represent hard-working people throughout Luzerne and Lackawanna counties. Our child custody lawyer team knows that family law matters involving children are stressful. Let us ease your burden by providing thoughtful legal advice consistent with the highest ethical standards.

With over 20 years of combined legal experience, we have the expertise to help you navigate any family law situation. To learn more, contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation to discuss your situation.