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Child Custody Lawyer Lincoln, NE

When parents decide to separate, their children are often caught in the middle. Successful child custody, parenting time, and visitation schedules start with determining what is best for your child; however, the legal team at GordenLaw, LLC, is prepared to fight on your behalf to achieve your ideal solution.

We handle all aspects of child custody arrangements, whether you need to establish one as part of a divorce or separation or if you and your child’s other parent never lived together but share co-parenting responsibilities. We’ll also help modify an existing custody agreement if your life circumstances change. Contact us today for a compassionate consultation with a Lincoln, NE, child custody lawyer who is on your side.

Why Our Lincoln Child Custody Lawyer Is Right For You

Are you and your child’s other parent struggling with a child custody agreement? Having an experienced child custody lawyer represent you can help protect your family and shield your child from disputes between you and your child’s other parent. We know how difficult it is, especially when you want as much time with your child as possible. We’re committed to helping your family find a peaceful resolution with as little impact on your child as possible.

Our child custody attorneys have extensive experience handling even the most contentious child custody cases, both in court and in mediation. We represent your interests and advocate for you, working tirelessly to reach a fair, amicable agreement. We also know how important it is to maintain a positive relationship with your child’s other parent, if only for your child, and we do everything we can to help achieve that.

How Child Custody Is Determined In Nebraska

Judges in Nebraska family law courts typically make decisions in the best interests of the child, and this usually means ongoing, regular contact with both parents. Joint custody, in some form or fashion, is usually the default arrangement to provide the child with the best opportunity to maintain relationships with both parents.

The exact time-sharing of the child or children depends on a few factors, including whether one parent demonstrates harmful behaviors that result in an unsafe or neglectful living situation for the child. Suppose you believe that the other parent may be driving or using drugs, unable to properly supervise the child, or may place the child in unsafe situations or around people who could have a negative impact on your child. In that case, we can help you gather proof for the judge.

Creating A Custody Arrangement You Can Live With

We strive to secure your ideal custody arrangement, but often, these situations require a bit of negotiation and give-and-take. Sometimes, parents can develop a custody schedule out of court, in mediation or negotiations, and we can take the lead on these negotiations on your behalf. If you cannot create a schedule for yourselves, though, and the case goes to court, the judge will look at evidence of each parent’s ability to supervise the child and keep them safe, then decide based on the child’s best interest. This includes the child’s relationship with each parent, age, health, safety, and access to education and enrichment activities.

Your and your child’s future are too important to risk not having legal representation in custody matters. We take your needs seriously. A skilled Lincoln child custody lawyer from GordenLaw, LLC, is ready to hear your story, so call us today. 

Understanding Parental Alienation

As our Lincoln, NE child custody lawyer can tell you, parental alienation occurs when one parent attempts to undermine or damage the child’s relationship with the other parent. This can be incredibly harmful to both the child and the targeted parent. If you’re experiencing parental alienation in your child custody case, it’s crucial to understand the signs and take appropriate steps to address it. Attorney Vanessa Gorden graduated with honors from the University of South Dakota School of Law in 2005 and is passionate about her clients. Speak with our team now. 

Recognizing The Signs

Parental alienation can manifest in various ways. You might notice your child becoming increasingly hostile or withdrawn towards you, parroting negative comments about you that they likely heard from the other parent. They might also refuse to visit or communicate with you without a clear reason. Recognizing these behaviors early is essential, as they can indicate that the other parent is intentionally trying to alienate your child from you.

Gathering Evidence

Our NE child custody lawyer recommends documenting instances of parental alienation is critical. Keep a detailed record of any communications, incidents, or behaviors that suggest alienation. This can include text messages, emails, or written notes where the other parent disparages you. Also, note any changes in your child’s behavior or things they say that might indicate they are being influenced. Having a comprehensive record can be valuable evidence in court.

Seeking Professional Help

In cases of parental alienation, involving a mental health professional can be beneficial. A therapist or psychologist can work with your child to understand their feelings and provide a neutral perspective on the situation. They can also offer expert testimony in court if needed, supporting your claims of alienation. It’s important to choose a professional who is experienced in dealing with high-conflict custody cases and familiar with the dynamics of parental alienation.

Legal Actions And Remedies

If parental alienation is affecting your child custody case, taking legal action may be necessary. Family courts take allegations of parental alienation seriously, as it can be detrimental to the child’s well-being. You can file a motion with the court to address the alienating behavior. The court may order a custody evaluation, where a professional assesses the family situation and makes recommendations. In some cases, the court might modify the custody arrangement to protect the child’s relationship with the targeted parent.

Rebuilding The Relationship

Rebuilding your relationship with your child is a crucial aspect of overcoming parental alienation. This process can be slow and requires patience, understanding, and consistent effort. Engage in activities that foster bonding and trust, and ensure that your interactions are positive and supportive. It’s important to avoid speaking negatively about the other parent, as this can further confuse and distress your child.

Support And Guidance

Navigating a child custody case while dealing with parental alienation can be challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. We specialize in family law and have extensive experience handling cases involving parental alienation. If you suspect or are experiencing parental alienation, it’s essential to act swiftly and decisively. In 2017, attorney Vanessa Gorden was recognized as a Distinguished Lawyer by Expert Network, and that’s someone you want by your side. Contact GordenLaw, LLC today for a consultation. We are committed to helping you navigate this difficult situation and work towards a solution that ensures the best interests of your child. Let our Lincoln, child custody lawyer help you restore and protect the precious relationship you have with your child, call today.

Creating A List Of What You Want In Your Child Custody Agreement

Our Lincoln, NE child custody lawyer knows that navigating child custody arrangements can be emotionally challenging and complex. To help streamline the process and ensure that your child’s best interests are prioritized, it’s crucial to create a detailed list of what you want in your child custody agreement. This list will serve as a roadmap during negotiations and legal proceedings, helping to clarify your preferences and needs. When you need help, turn to GordenLaw, LLC. Attorney Vanessa Gorden was recognized as a Distinguished lawyer in 2017 and can help you with your child custody agreement. 

  1. Physical Custody Schedule. A clear and detailed physical custody schedule is essential. Specify the days and times each parent will have custody, including regular weekdays, weekends, and holidays. Consider your child’s school schedule, extracurricular activities, and the distance between parents’ homes. This schedule should aim to provide stability and consistency for your child.
  2. Legal Custody Decisions. Legal custody involves making major decisions about your child’s life, such as education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. Decide whether you want joint legal custody, where both parents share decision-making responsibilities, or sole legal custody, where one parent has the authority. Outline how decisions will be made and how disagreements will be resolved.
  3. Holiday and Vacation Plans. Holidays and vacations can be a significant point of contention. Create a detailed plan that specifies where your child will spend major holidays, school breaks, and vacations. Consider alternating holidays annually or splitting holiday time. Ensure that the plan is fair and allows your child to spend meaningful time with both parents.
  4. Communication Guidelines. Our Lincoln child custody lawyer knows that effective communication is key to successful co-parenting. Establish guidelines for how and when parents will communicate about the child. This can include regular updates, preferred communication methods (e.g., email, phone, text), and rules for discussing sensitive topics. Clear communication guidelines help prevent misunderstandings and conflicts.
  5. Transportation Arrangements. Transportation logistics are an important aspect of any custody agreement. Determine how your child will be transported between homes, who will be responsible for driving, and any cost-sharing arrangements. Consider the locations of each parent’s home and your child’s school or daycare when making these decisions.
  6. Child Support and Financial Responsibilities. Child support and the division of financial responsibilities should be explicitly outlined. Include details about the amount and frequency of child support payments, as well as how additional expenses (e.g., medical bills, extracurricular activities) will be shared. A clear financial plan ensures that your child’s needs are consistently met.
  7. Health and Medical Care. Your child’s health and medical care are paramount. Specify how medical decisions will be made, who will manage health insurance, and how medical expenses will be shared. Include guidelines for routine check-ups, emergency care, and the use of specific healthcare providers if applicable.
  8. Education and Extracurricular Activities. Education and extracurricular activities play a significant role in your child’s development. Outline how educational decisions will be made, including school choice, parent-teacher conferences, and involvement in school activities. Similarly, specify how decisions about extracurricular activities will be handled and how costs will be divided.

Help During This Difficult Time

At GordenLaw, LLC, we understand the complexities of creating a child custody agreement. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the process, ensuring that your child’s best interests are always the priority. Contact us today to discuss your custody needs and let us help you create a comprehensive and fair agreement. Attorney Gorden founded his firm in 2011 and has been helping her clients ever since. Together, we can work toward a solution that supports your child’s well-being and your family’s future. Speak with our child custody lawyer in Lincoln today.