Las Cruces Custody Lawyer

Your Child’s Well-Being Is Our Priority

Custody disputes are some of the most difficult family law matters. In many cases, each parent feels that they are acting in the best interest of their child or children. If parents cannot agree on a custody arrangement, the court will determine what it feels is in the best interest of the child. To ensure that you receive the best possible outcome in your custody dispute, you need to speak to a Las Cruces custody lawyer today.

Our experienced family law attorneys know that this can be a difficult time for any family. Trying to determine who should have custody of a child can bring up a lot of resentment, fear, and anger between both parties. You need a legal representative that you can trust and who will advocate on behalf of you and your children.

If you are involved in a custody matter, contact the Aranda Law Firm at (575) 386-5100 to schedule a consultation with a trusted child custody lawyer in Las Cruces.

Types of Custody Arrangements

When custody of a child or children is contested, the court can step in to determine who should have legal and physical custody. State law assumes that “joint custody” is best for children, where each parent is allowed to share in legal decisions. Joint custody, however, does not mean that parents split physical custody (or time-sharing) equally in every case.

One parent may be granted “sole custody,” where they alone may make all legal decisions about a child’s upbringing, including the school they attend and medical decisions. A parent is usually granted sole custody in cases where the other parent is deemed unfit by the court. The non-custodial parent may then be granted visitation rights under certain circumstances.

Factors that a Court May Consider

A court may use several factors to determine custody arrangements. Until the child is the age of fourteen, the court will determine what is in their best interest as the standard for awarding custody. At fourteen, the court will consider a child’s wishes when determining custody arrangements.

Factors that a court may consider when determining custody:

The wishes of each parent
The interaction between the child and each parent
The relationship between the child and other people that substantially influence their life (i.e., siblings, grandparents, etc.)
The child’s adjustment to home, school, and community
The mental and physical health of all involved parties

The court favors joint custody but will look at several things, such as the geographic location between residences, to determine if joint custody is feasible. It is important to discuss your case with a Las Cruces custody lawyer to ensure you receive the best possible outcome in your case.

Child Custody Frequently Asked Questions

When Can a Child Decide Custody?

Prior to the age of fourteen, the court will use the best interests standard when determining custody. When a child turns fourteen, the court will then give consideration to the minor over whom they want to have custody of them. Ultimately, however, discretion still remains with the judge in deciding who should have custody over the child.

Can I Move Out of State with My Child?

If you share custody with another parent, you cannot move your child to a new location without permission. The other parent must agree to the relocation. This applies to both out-of-state moves and relocations within New Mexico. It is essential to follow all procedures prior to moving your child, or you could find yourself in violation of your custody arrangements.

What If I Don’t Agree with the Custody Arrangements?

If you do not agree with the custody arrangements, you need to speak to a Las Cruces custody lawyer immediately. Do not fail to comply with a court order. You could end up in serious legal trouble if you ignore a custody agreement that has been established by a court. Custody arrangements may be modified with the help of an attorney.

How the Aranda Law Firm Can Help

Our Las Cruces custody lawyers can help protect you and your family’s interests. We handle a wide range of family law matters, including custody disputes, child support issues, and divorce cases. Contact the office today to schedule an appointment.

Contact the Aranda Law Firm Today

Are you involved in a custody dispute in Las Cruces? Get the legal help you need now. Contact the Aranda Law Firm at (575) 386-5100 to schedule a confidential consultation. You should not have to do this alone.

Child custody issues can be hard, but the Aranda Law Firm can help you find the right solutions for you and your family. Do not wait. Call today to get started. Consultations are provided without obligation to retain the firm. Get a strong, skilled Las Cruces custody lawyer on your side. The firm proudly serves clients throughout Las Cruces and the surrounding areas.