Child Custody and Visitation
Facing child custody and visitation challenges can be a stressful and emotional experience. Child custody arrangements have a great impact on a child's emotional, social, and developmental well-being. A stable and predictable environment where both parents can continue to play a significant role in their lives is crucial for children adjusting to the changes brought on by divorce or separation. Often times even after a child custody judgment has been ordered through the court problems can arise.
As a mother herself, Samantha Moisant , the attorney at Moisant Law Firm, understands just how important each and every situation in your child's life is. We will work tirelessly to advocate for your parental rights and achieve an outcome that prioritizes your children's best interests.
Why Should a Court Order Child Custody and Visitation?
​
While some parents are able to reach an amicable agreement on child custody and visitation outside of court, unfortunately, this isn't always the case. A court-ordered parenting plan provides a clear and enforceable legal framework that minimizes future conflict and ensures both parents fulfill their obligations to the child. This established plan can also help maintain a sense of normalcy and stability for the child during a time of significant emotional time. We will work tirelessly to advocate for your parental rights and achieve an outcome that prioritizes your children's best interests through a legally binding court order that protects everyone involved.
​
How Does Child Custody and Visitation in Louisiana Work?
Louisiana courts prioritize the best interests of the child when determining child custody and visitation arrangements. This involves considering various factors, such as the child's age, health, emotional needs, relationship with each parent, and living environment.
​
There are two primary types of child custody in Louisiana:
-
Sole Custody: One parent has primary physical custody of the child, with the other parent granted visitation rights.
-
Joint Custody: Both parents share legal decision-making authority regarding the child's upbringing, and may have either:
-
Joint Physical Custody: Children spend significant time with both parents, following a detailed visitation schedule.
-
Shared Custody: A variation of joint physical custody, with frequent exchanges of the child between parents' homes.
-
​
-
Visitation Schedules Can Vary​
Visitation schedules are customized based on the child's needs, parents' work schedules, and geographic distance. Common arrangements include:
-
Weekends: Children spend alternating weekends with each parent.
-
Midweek Visits: In addition to weekends, one parent may have a midweek evening visit.
-
Holidays and School Breaks: These can be split between parents or follow a specific rotation.
How We Can Help You Create A Parenting Plan
-
Physical Custody Arrangements: Where the child will reside and how much time they spend with each parent.
-
Visitation Schedules: Specific days and times for visitation exchanges.
-
Decision-Making Authority: How major decisions regarding the child's upbringing will be made (jointly or by one parent).
-
Child Support: Financial responsibility for the child's needs.
Contact Moisant Law Today for a Consultation​
The decisions made regarding child custody and visitation can have a lasting impact on your family. Contact Moisant Law Firm today to schedule a consultation with a compassionate and experienced child custody attorney in St. Tammany Parish. We are here to guide you through this challenging process and protect your children's future.
​
Call us at 504-317-1685 or fill out our online contact form.
​
We are located in Metairie, Louisiana and serve the surrounding areas.