This is the final post in a series of articles discussing changing child custody in Little Rock, Arkansas. Child custody disputes are among the most hotly contested issues in family court. For some families, it may become necessary to modify an existing custody arrangement for a variety of reasons. In some instances, doing so can be difficult. The objective of this series has been to provide information to help parents better understand when their circumstances may justify a change in custody and how to proceed to do so. Another goal has been to provide information that will assist in the selection of a child custody attorney. Our office understands that custody disputes require expertise and attention to reach a favorable resolution. We are ready to assist you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a family lawyer.
This series has focused on the following topics:
- Arkansas’ laws related to changing child custody
- The process of requesting a change in custody
- Conducting discovery in such matters
- Attending a custody modification trial
- Settling custody changes through mediation
Before seeking a change in one’s child custody arrangement through the legal system, it is important to understand these points for several reasons. First, a judge will not simply modify a custody order because one parent is not happy with the existing arrangement. Certain legal requirements must be met for a court to consider one’s request to amend the order. Second, it is important to be aware of the various steps and procedural requirements involved in the custody modification process. Third, as is true in other legal proceedings, the court will rely on objective evidence presented by the parties when evaluating their case. Evidence is typically gathered through a process known as discovery. An attorney with litigation experience will understand how to use the discovery phase of the case to obtain information necessary in support of their client’s case. Next, when the parties are not able to settle their dispute, the court will schedule a trial to resolve the matter. It is important to know what a family can expect during the proceeding. Last, private mediation may be an alternative to trial for many families who wish to avoid litigation and save legal fees, time, and stress.
Changing an existing custody arrangement is a serious matter. It is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible to discuss your options. Our Little Rock attorneys can help protect your legal rights. In addition to Little Rock, we also handle matters in Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Springdale, Jonesboro, North Little Rock, Conway, Rogers, Pine Bluff, and throughout the rest of Arkansas.