Child Custody

Brockton, Massachusetts, Child Custody and Visitation Rights Lawyer

Disagreements over child custody and child visitation frequently make the difference between contested and uncontested divorce, and these issues are emotionally charged for both parents. Divorce and the factors leading up to it can have devastating effects on children and teenagers, and, as parents, you want to do everything you can to protect your children. At the law firm of child custody attorney Andrew H. P. Norton, we have the skill and the experience to guide divorcing and divorced couples towards resolutions that serve their children's best interests.

From our offices in Brockton, Massachusetts, we represent clients in the communities of Plymouth, Quincy, Braintree, and Wareham; in Plymouth, Norfolk, and Bristol Counties; on Cape Cod; and throughout southeastern Massachusetts.

Judges decide custody and visitation matters based on an assessment of the conduct of the parties, the child's individual needs and ultimately what is in the best interests of the children. False allegations of abuse or neglect, domestic violence, substance abuse, or mental health problems, if not effectively defended and refuted, can mean loss of custody or visitation rights. We represent clients facing false accusations, and we make sure the judge and Court have the most accurate complete information available.

Child Visitation Schedules

Visitation schedules can be set by the parties or by the court, and in either case they are modifiable depending on changed circumstances. In all instances any issue having to do with children is modifiable by the Court. This can include custody, support and visitation. We assist our clients in all aspects of modifying divorce decrees. We can also assist our clients in modifying a decree from another state.

A primary custodial parent who wants to leave the state with children must get permission from the court to do so. We represent either party in such disputes, in which a judge will decide based upon the best interests of the child.

We also handle custody cases involving children born out of wedlock, as well as guardianship matters in cases of parents alleged to be unfit.

Child custody and visitation issues arouse intense feelings in both parents, and the resulting disputes can be extremely harmful to the very children the parents seek to protect. We understand the anguish our clients face regarding these issues, and our extensive experience in family law gives us the legal and personal skills to best assist our clients.

If you are involved in a custody or visitation dispute, or if you seek modification of a custody or visitation decree, please contact us for knowledgeable and effective legal representation.