Child Custody Attorneys in Bend, Oregon

When parents separate or get a divorce, no decision is more important than deciding who will have custody of minor children. The idea of having to fight for your rights to live with or even see your children following a divorce or separation can be frustrating and anxiety-inducing. 

If you are getting a divorce or separating from the mother or father of your children, having a skilled attorney on your side can make all the difference. Our child custody attorneys at Haskett Williams Monaghan Attorneys at Law are committed to helping parents preserve their relationship with children in Bend, Oregon, and surrounding areas, including Prineville, Sunriver, Redmond, Madras, and Sisters. We work with clients to help them navigate the complexities of child custody law and ensure that they establish the best possible child custody arrangement. Reach out to our team today. 

Establishing a Child Custody Arrangement in Oregon 

In Oregon, there are two options for establishing a child custody arrangement: you can either arrive at an agreement with the other parent or go to court. If you can reach an agreement with your former partner, then either of you can file it with the court as part of your divorce proceedings, and it will become legally binding once the judge has approved it.  

However, if you cannot agree on an arrangement, you may need to file a petition in family court asking the judge to decide on an arrangement on your behalf. If possible, it might be best to negotiate a mutually beneficial arrangement with the other parent because going to court can be expensive, not to mention that you have no control over the outcome of your case. The judge will use their best judgment in establishing a custody arrangement for you based on the circumstances of your case.  

Types of Custody 

In Oregon, there are two types of custody that can be established: joint custody and sole custody. In joint custody, both parents share responsibility for making major decisions regarding the child’s welfare, such as where they should attend school or what medical procedures they should receive if necessary. On the other hand, if only one parent has been granted sole custody, then that parent has exclusive decision-making authority over the child’s upbringing. However, even if one parent has sole custody, the court may still award visitation rights to the other parent so long as it is in the best interests of the child.   

Factors Considered in Determining Custody  

When determining which type of arrangement is best for your family, Oregon courts consider several key factors, such as:  

• The emotional ties between the child and other family members; 

• The interest of the parties in and attitude toward the child; 

• The desirability of continuing an existing relationship; 

• The abuse of one parent by the other; 

• The preference for the primary caregiver of the child, if the caregiver is deemed fit by the court; and 

• The willingness and ability of each parent to facilitate and encourage a close and continuing relationship between the other parent and the child (unless one parent shows that the other parent has sexually assaulted or engaged in a pattern of behavior of abuse against the parent or a child and that a continuing relationship with the other parent will endanger the health or safety of either parent or the child) 

Modifying an Existing Child Custody Arrangement  

There are certain things you must establish in order to modify an existing child custody arrangement in Oregon:  

1. There has been an unanticipated change in circumstances that affects the custodial parent’s ability to care for the child(ren);  

2. The requested modification meets the “best interests of the child” standard; and 

3. The benefits of the modification outweigh the potential drawbacks associated with changing the existing arrangement.  

Some instances that may warrant a modification of an existing child custody arrangement include if there is evidence demonstrating the other parent’s abuse or neglect of the child or when one parent fails to hold up their end of the agreement.  

How Can a Child Custody Attorney Help? 

A child custody attorney understands the complexities of family law and can provide guidance throughout the process. They can help create parenting plans that both parties agree upon while keeping the best interests of the children at heart.  

An attorney can also provide emotional support during this difficult time by offering a listening ear, as well as strong advice on potential outcomes in court. In addition, they will review all documents related to your case thoroughly so that nothing is overlooked when presenting evidence. This helps ensure that all relevant information is considered when making decisions about child custody arrangements. 

Child Custody Attorneys in Bend, Oregon   

Hiring a child custody attorney is an important step for anyone dealing with family law proceedings that involve minor children. Our attorneys at Haskett Williams Monaghan Attorneys at Law understand all legal requirements and are familiar with the intricacies of family law cases. Reach out to our child custody attorneys in Bend, Oregon, for dependable assistance with your case. Contact our office to set up a consultation and discuss your situation.