Navigating Child Custody in Kentucky

Attorney to Help with Child Custody Laws in Bowling Green

One of the most frequently contested subjects in family law, separation, and divorce cases is the matter of child custody. Even the most civil, uncontested divorces can turn complex and ugly if two spouses cannot come to an agreement about who will care for the child.

When you contact our firm, we can help you navigate through the complexities and get you the help that only a Louisville child custody attorney can.

Our Bowling Green attorney has over 30 years of experience and is prepared to represent you in even the most complicated child custody case. If you choose to hire our firm, we work hard on your behalf to resolve your case in the fairest, most efficient manner possible.

We are aware of all the various issues which can be brought up in a child custody case and ready to help provide an appropriate solution. Take a look at our case results and see what our other clients are saying.

Securing the Best Possible Outcome with Child Custody Laws

A phrase you will hear very often in a child support case is “best interests of the child.” This is the deciding factor for the courts when determining which parent will have sole or primary custody of a child.

You need to disclose as much as possible with your attorney during this time, to ensure that there aren’t any aspects of your life that might go against “the best interests of the child” and prevent you from obtaining custody.

At the Law Office of Pamela C. Bratcher, our goal is to work with you to achieve a positive outcome, whether that means being awarded custody of your child, or obtaining a satisfactory visitation schedule. Whether you are in the midst of a divorce or legal separation, we are here to provide you with the personalized, compassionate advocacy you need.

Many different factors are considered when a decision is made for child custody, such as:

• Each parent’s ability to provide financially for the child
• Each parent’s earning capability and current income
• Each parent’s relationship with the child or children

There are a number of reasons why our clients come to us, including that we have practiced at the trial level, appeal level, and in state and federal courts. We have earned a reputation throughout the years for our excellence and have been granted membership into many associations, such as the Kentucky Bar Association, the American Bar Association, and the Bowling Green County Bar Association.

Kentucky Custody Arrangements

What are the different custody arrangements? In Kentucky, two main types of custody arrangements exist joint and sole custody.

The type of custody arrangement best for a particular child depends on the case’s circumstances. The court will consider several factors, including the child’s age, the parent’s wishes, and the parent’s ability to cooperate. Learn more about different types of arrangements and custody laws in KY here.

At What Age Can A Child Decide Which Parent To Live With?

If the child is a minor, the court will presume that he or she is not mature enough to make that kind of decision. While a judge may consider the child’s wishes, the ruling will be based on what is in their best interests.

Generally, a court will allow a child to testify by the age of 12. As the child gets older, the more weight their wishes may hold. The court is looking for mature and logical reasoning behind their living preferences.

What criteria define an unfit parent in Kentucky?

It is not uncommon for divorcing parents to disagree on custody issues. However, if one parent suspects that the other is not fit to carry out their role as provider and guardian, then the court may evaluate the following factors to help make a custody decision:

• Age-Appropriate Limits: Has the parent set limits to what the child may watch on television? Have they set a curfew? These are questions that must be asked to determine this factor.
• The Needs of the Child: The court will analyze how receptive the parent is towards the needs of the child(ren). They will also view how well the parent communicates with his or her child(ren).
• Abuse & Neglect: Has the parent shown a history of child abuse or child neglect?
• Substance Abuse: Has the parent suffered from substance or alcohol abuse problems?
• Mental Illness: Does the parent suffer from a mental illness that inhibits them from carrying out their role?

Can Custody Change in Kentucky?

Custody modification is possible under Kentucky law. Either parent can file to ask the court for a hearing to modify custody orders. The court will determine what is in the best interest of the child based on several factors such as: the relationship between the parent and child, substance abuse issues, and/or any type of abuse in the home.

It is most difficult to modify custody orders within the first 2 years. This type of situation is oftentimes very difficult and delicate. It is best to seek expert guidance from a very experienced lawyer. If you still have questions regarding custody, contact our office today.