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Child Custody

Wichita Child Custody Attorney

35+ Combined Years of Experience On Your Side

Dealing with a child custody case can be complicated and highly emotional. With so much at stake, you cannot afford anything less than an experienced, dedicated Wichita child custody attorney.

Our team at Beall & Mitchell LLC has over 35 years of combined experience with family law issues of all kinds. We understand that your child's future is on the line, and we are committed to helping you resolve your legal issues efficiently and skillfully.

Need Help? Our Skilled Child Custody Lawyers Are Here for You. Call at (316) 842-4014 or Contact Us Online to Start Your Case.

How is Child Custody Determined in Kansas?

Child custody decisions are made with the primary focus on the best interests of the child.

These are the key factors in determining child custody:

  • Parental Relationships: The court evaluates each parent’s relationship with the child, including the emotional bonds and involvement in the child’s life.
  • Parental Ability: The court assesses each parent’s ability to provide for the child's physical, emotional, and educational needs.
  • Stability and Environment: The stability of each parent’s home environment and their ability to provide a safe and nurturing environment is considered.
  • Previous Care: The court considers which parent has been the primary caregiver and the child's current living situation.
  • Parental Health and Behavior: Each parent’s physical and mental health, as well as any history of substance abuse or domestic violence, is taken into account.

At Beall & Mitchell LLC, we can help parents find a workable custody arrangement that addresses:

  • Where and with whom will the child live
  • How much time will the child spend with each parent
  • Picking up/dropping off the child from school
  • What happens to the child during vacation breaks
  • How to address travel expenses
  • Decisions regarding the child's education, health, and upbringing

Our team understands that divorce and child custody issues are emotionally involved, and we are here to stand with you through this challenge. We work daily to ensure we give our clients the personal care, respect, and attention they deserve.

What are the Types of Child Custody Arrangements You Can Get?

In Kansas, child custody is categorized into several types, each defining different aspects of parental rights and responsibilities.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of custody recognized in the state:

Legal Custody

Refers to the right to make important decisions about the child’s life, including decisions related to education, health care, and general welfare. It can be:

  • Sole Legal Custody: One parent has the exclusive right to make all significant decisions regarding the child. The non-custodial parent may have limited input or involvement in these decisions.
  • Joint Legal Custody: Both parents share the responsibility for making major decisions about the child. This arrangement requires parents to work together and communicate effectively regarding the child's needs.

Physical Custody

Determines where the child will live and who will provide day-to-day care. It also involves the parent with whom the child will spend the majority of their time.

  • Sole Physical Custody: The child lives primarily with one parent, who is responsible for the child's daily care and upbringing. The other parent may have visitation rights but does not live with the child.
  • Joint Physical Custody: The child’s time is divided between both parents’ homes. This arrangement allows the child to spend substantial time with each parent, although it does not necessarily mean equal time.

Don't Navigate Child Custody Alone: Contact Our Skilled Attorneys Today.

At What Age in Kansas Can a Child Decide Which Parent to Live With?

In Kansas, there is no specific age at which a child can decide which parent to live with. The Kansas statutes state that the court shall consider the child's wishes "if the child is of sufficient age and capacity to express a preference." The court will also consider the child's "emotional ties with each parent," the "child's adjustment to his or her home, school, and community," and the "mental and physical health of all parties involved."

In other words, the court will consider the child's wishes, but they are not the only factor in custody decisions. The court will also consider the child's best interests, including factors such as the child's relationship with each parent, the stability of each parent's home, and the child's educational and extracurricular needs.

The older the child is, the more weight the court will give their wishes. However, the court will always consider the child's best interests, even if their wishes are not in their best interests.

If you are going through a divorce or separation in Kansas, speaking with an attorney who can help you understand the custody process and protect your rights is essential.

What Are The Benefits of Hiring a Wichita Child Custody Lawyer?

Trying to navigate the legal system alone can leave you frustrated and overwhelmed. You may miss critical filings or not realize the full extent of your rights.

Legal Support for Various Child Custody Concerns:

We make it as easy as possible for you to meet with us, with evening and weekend hours by appointment as well as flexible meeting locations.

Understanding the Child Custody Process

Navigating the child custody process can be challenging and emotionally taxing for parents. At Beall & Mitchell LLC, we prioritize guiding our clients through each step with clarity and compassion. By understanding the various phases of custody cases, you can better prepare yourself and make informed decisions.

The child custody process typically involves the following key stages:

  1. Initial Consultation: Meet with our experienced attorneys to discuss your situation, goals, and the unique needs of your child.
  2. Gathering Evidence: Collect necessary information, such as financial records, communication logs, and documentation relevant to your child's well-being.
  3. Mediation: Explore alternative dispute resolution methods aimed at reaching an amicable agreement without the need for contentious litigation.
  4. Filing the Petition: If an agreement cannot be reached, we will assist you in filing the appropriate legal documents to initiate court proceedings.
  5. Court Hearings: Representing your interests in front of a judge and presenting your case effectively can make a significant difference in the outcome.
  6. Post-Judgment Modifications: In the event of changes in circumstances, our team can help you pursue necessary amendments to custody arrangements.

Familiarizing yourself with these stages can empower you throughout the custody process, ensuring you advocate effectively for your child's best interests. Let Beall & Mitchell LLC assist you on this journey to achieve a fair and satisfactory resolution.

Understanding the Emotional Impact of Child Custody Decisions

Navigating child custody matters can be an emotionally taxing experience for families. It's essential to recognize the emotional implications that custody arrangements can have on both children and parents. At Beall & Mitchell LLC, we understand that every family situation is unique and requires a tailored approach that prioritizes the well-being of your children.

Our team believes in fostering an environment of support and communication. Here are some ways we assist clients in managing the emotional aspects of child custody cases:

  • Personalized Consultations: We provide one-on-one consultations to discuss your specific situation and help you understand your options.
  • Resource Recommendations: Our firm can connect you with mental health professionals and support groups specializing in family dynamics and custody issues.
  • Family Mediation Services: We offer mediation services to promote constructive dialogue and cooperative parenting solutions that benefit your children.
  • Educational Workshops: Attend our workshops designed to educate parents about child custody laws and coping strategies during custody disputes.

Every step of the child custody process is a learning opportunity. Our dedicated team is committed to providing not only legal guidance but also emotional support throughout this challenging time. We're here to help you protect your children's best interests while ensuring your rights as a parent are respected.

Ready to Discuss Your Child Custody Case? Call at (316) 842-4014 or Contact Us Online to Schedule a Free Consultation Now.

  • “Terry is intelligent, organized and focused.”
    Terry has been a wonder to work with. I entered the agreement having been mistreated by previous representation, and boy was working with Terry a night and day difference. Terry is intelligent, organized and focused. Every question I’ve asked has been answered immediately, and he’s proactively called to prepare me for each hearing and to explain each motion. I can’t say enough good things about him. If you’re looking for quality legal representation that is fairly billed, this is the place!
    - Chase D.
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    It has been a pleasure working with you on this case. I appreciate all of your work from day one. I don’t know how to thank you enough.
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    - Mercedes
  • “Thank you again for having the sense of urgency that you did”
    Heather, I want to first thank you again for having the sense of urgency that you did today. It truly means a lot and speaks volumes for Beall and Mitchell Law Office.
    - Erick
  • “His energy was a GOD SEND!”
    Omg! He is AMAZING!! He was EXACTLY what we wanted in the courtroom. His energy was a GOD SEND!
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  • “I am glad I made Mitchell my attorney.”
    Heather, I read the document you sent me, it looks great. I am glad I made Mitchell my attorney.
    - Darcie
  • “Five-star performance.”
    Terry was outstanding in trial yesterday and stumped a very prominent attorney numerous times. Five-star performance. I am very pleased.
    - Josh W.

Why Choose Beall & Mitchell LLC?

  • We have experience in a wide range of practice areas
  • We offer evening & weekend appointments
  • We are aggressive trial attorneys
  • We have over 35 years of combined experience
  • We will travel to our clients
  • We offer a free 15 minute consultation