South Carolina Child Custody Attorney
When children are involved, divorce is a lot more than two people going their separate ways. A family and a home are divided. As difficult as it may be, parents have to try to get through the process with the least amount of emotional turmoil possible, as the children could be exposed to many aspects of your marriage and personalities that will do them a disservice to say the least. From child custody issues to child support and visitation, Trey works tirelessly to make sure a child’s best interests are protected.
The Best Interest of the Child
When it comes to children, a court’s main priority is determining - and protecting - their best interests. You obviously want the same thing: what’s best for your kids. Still, child custody issues can be complex and emotional for all involved. You can rest assured, though, that Trey Cook Law will guide you through the process and help you understand the issues better as you determine what’s best for you and your children.
Factors That Help Determine Custody
Until fairly recently in South Carolina, it was normal practice to automatically award sole custody to the mother. That “tender years doctrine,” thankfully, is no longer in force. Instead, when custody is contested, the deciding factor is what's in the best interest of the child. A court will consider several factors to make that determination, including who has been the primary caregiver, the stability of existing and proposed residences, the quality of the child's relationships with the parents and other family members, as well as any physical and psychological issues that could negatively impact the ability of a parent to care for the child.
Parents Also Have Rights That Need Protection
Whether you're a custodial or non-custodial parent, Trey Cook will fight to ensure your parental rights are protected. Trey will also keep you informed he examines the available options that will best support the best interests of your child or children. And he will advise you on realistic strategies to achieve the best outcome for your particular situation and circumstances. As you are likely aware, circumstances change for custodial and non-custodial parents as the child grows, so there are some instances where the modification of child custody arrangements is warranted. That said, the best interests of the child remains the central issue for decisions about modifying those arrangements. Trey Cook Law counsels clients about relevant grounds for seeking changes and protects their interests in court.