Anchorage Child Custody Lawyer

Anchorage Child Custody Attorney

Consult an Anchorage child custody lawyer to ensure you secure a fair custody arrangement. Otterson Law & Mediation, P.C. understands the importance of maintaining family connections and is here to advocate for parental rights in Alaska.

When to Hire a Child Custody Lawyer

Whether you and your co-parent are divorcing or simply living in different households, matters of child custody must be determined, and it’s recommended that you hire a child custody lawyer. Custody in Alaska encompasses both legal custody, which grants decision-making authority, and physical custody, which refers to the day-to-day care of the child.

Family law courts generally favor parents having shared custody, but child custody cases can vary. Nationwide, fathers are most likely to receive approximately 35% of the custody time. While in Alaska, each parent is likely to receive 50% custody time.

When custody is shared, a parenting plan must be created to establish standard, enforceable expectations. A parenting schedule also must align with the child’s schedule. If one parent is assigned primary custody, the child resides with them most of the time, and the other parent is typically granted some amount of visitation time. In more extreme cases, visitation rights may be limited or restricted, such as supervised visitation.

How Does the Court Decide Custody in Anchorage, Alaska?

Under AS 25.24.150(c), child custody laws state that the court shall determine an arrangement according to the child’s interests. These factors are considered:

• The physical, emotional, mental, religious, and social needs of the child.
• Each parent’s ability and desire to meet the needs of the child.
• The child’s preference, if they are capable and old enough to voice a preference.
• The relationship, including love and affection, each parent has with their child.
• The stability of the child’s current living arrangement and whether it’s preferable to maintain the arrangement.
• Whether there’s a history of domestic violence, child abuse, or neglect.
• The willingness and ability of each parent to encourage a close and continuing relationship between the other parent and their child, except in instances of abuse or violence.
• Whether either parent has a history of substance abuse.
• Any other factors the court deems relevant to the matter of child custody.

What to Expect in an Alaska Custody Case

It can be helpful to understand how custody cases generally work. These are the outlined steps you can expect when preparing for a child custody case in Alaska:

1. Consultation with an Anchorage child custody attorney
2. Filling out and filing the necessary documents for your situation
3. Proceedings take place, whether through mediation or negotiation, until a settlement is reached
4. If the matter is still contested, a hearing or trial may follow
5. A court makes a decision and puts orders into effect

Custody cases in Anchorage are typically handled at the Nesbett Courthouse, located at 825 W. 4th Avenue, Anchorage, AK 99501. Your child custody attorney can help you schedule a date and time that works with the court’s calendar.

Choose Otterson Law & Mediation, P.C. for Your Custody Case

Navigating child custody in Alaska requires a thorough understanding of state law and court procedures. Otterson Law & Mediation, P.C. provides expert legal guidance, helping grandparents gather necessary evidence, prepare compelling arguments, and represent their interests in court.

FAQs

How Soon Can I Modify Custody After the Original Order?

In Anchorage, Alaska, there is no specific timeframe to modify a custody order. Either parent can file for a modification at any time, provided there is evidence of a substantial change in circumstances since the original court order, and the modification must be in the child’s interests. This is seen in the Alaskan Supreme Court case of J.M. v. S.C., where the court decided that the deterioration of a child’s behavioral and emotional health justified a modification.

How Much Does a Custody Attorney Cost in Alaska?

In Alaska, the costs of a child custody attorney can vary depending on the factors of your case. For example, costs can depend on whether the case is contested, the number of court appearances required, and the complexity of the circumstances. It’s important to discuss fees and payment at your first consultation with your child custody lawyer.

Can Grandparents Get Visitation Rights?

Grandparents may petition the court for visitation rights when parental actions or circumstances prevent meaningful contact. This typically occurs in situations such as divorce, separation, or the death of a parent. The court prioritizes the child’s well-being, ensuring that visitation serves their best interests. In more serious cases, grandparents may seek custody of their grandchildren.

How Does Domestic Violence or Substance Abuse Affect Custody?

In addition to other relevant factors, the court looks at whether either parent has a history of substance abuse or domestic violence. Since the court must prioritize a child’s safety and well-being, the presence of these behaviors can potentially have a negative impact on the offending parent’s rights to custody and visitation.

Contact our experienced Anchorage Child Custody Lawyer today

Otterson Law & Mediation, P.C. is committed to protecting the rights of parents and ensuring that children maintain strong family bonds. Contact us today to access compassionate and effective legal representation to safeguard your family’s connections.