Protecting the Best Interests of Your Children in Rock Hill, SC
Creating a practical and supportive child custody arrangement is a key part of many family law disputes. South Carolina’s default is for a child’s parents to share custody equally; however, some situations may call for a different arrangement. Many parents in Rock Hill find it helpful to work with a local child custody attorney who has experience assisting parents through this legal process.
Turner Family Law was founded by an attorney who is also a divorced dad. He understands firsthand what the process is like when you are ending a marriage with someone you share children with. He and his team can provide you with compassionate, practical, and responsive guidance about your legal rights.
What Are the Different Types of Child Custody in South Carolina?
Joint custody is when both parents are involved in making important decisions about the children, such as their schooling, medical care, religion, and other matters. Additionally, parents with joint custody may have an equal amount of overnight time with the children, such as alternating weekends or days of the week.
In a sole custody arrangement, one parent may have legal and physical custody of the children throughout the year. In that situation, the other parent might have pre-scheduled visits with the children as appropriate.
How Custody Decisions Are Made in SC Courts
Under South Carolina law, the court makes custody decisions based on what it thinks is in the best interests of the children. Some of the factors the court looks at include:
- The child’s age
- The maturity level and temperament of the child
- The child’s preferences
- The relationship the child has with each parent
- Past or current reports of domestic violence or substance abuse in either home
- The child’s connections to the community (school, friends, extracurricular activities, etc.)
Typically, the parents would first negotiate the child custody arrangement and put it into a parenting plan. Then, they would present it to the judge for review, and the judge would either approve it or request modifications.
Why Choose Turner Family Law for Custody Matters?
Turner Family Law has partnered with many families throughout South Carolina and Rock Hill.
Our trusted legal advocates put families first, and we strive to create arrangements that respect the autonomy and uniqueness of each family we serve.
We also aim to develop practical, child-centered approaches, understanding that you and your family will have to live out any parenting plan the court approves. Our team has the skills necessary to help families successfully move through contentious child custody disputes.
Our Child Custody Legal Services
Our law firm stands firmly behind Rock Hill families who are navigating custody matters. To that end, here are some of the legal services our child custody attorneys handle:
- Establishing custody and visitation plans
- Custody dispute resolution and litigation
- Modification of existing custody orders
- Enforcing custody and visitation rights
We take pride in the relationships we form with our clients. Getting to know our clients helps inform the legal strategies we create and implement for our clients.
Serving Families Across Rock Hill and York County
Parents appreciate our compassionate and people-driven approach to practicing law. Here’s what Christofer Williams said about working with us for his divorce case:
“Divorce can be a very uncomfortable experience but with Michael this isn’t true. On my initial consultation it felt like i was opening up to an old friend. His knowledge and attention to detail makes you feel certain that he is in your corner and fighting for you.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Child Custody in Rock Hill
Who gets custody by default in South Carolina?
The default rule is for both parents to share custody equally ( called joint custody). The court does not show a preference for custody based on the parent’s gender, regardless of the child’s age.
Can custody be changed after the divorce is final?
Yes. The parties can ask the judge to modify the custody arrangement after the divorce is final. However, the person requesting the change must prove there is a substantial change in circumstances justifying an adjustment.
What rights do non-custodial parents have?
Non-custodial parents have the rights outlined in the parenting plan and the laws in effect at the time.
Do children get to choose which parent to live with?
It depends. Where appropriate, the court may talk to the child and ask what their preference is for child custody. However, this is one of the many factors the court considers when deciding whether to approve a child custody determination.
Schedule a Consultation With a Rock Hill Child Custody Lawyer
Child custody matters can be challenging for people to move through because of the emotional and logistical aspects that tend to arise.
Having sound and knowledgeable legal advice throughout can be immensely helpful and relieving for many parents.
The attorneys at Turner Family Law provide well-researched and agile legal services to families in Rock Hill and throughout South Carolina.
J. Michael Turner, Jr., has exclusively been practicing family law for over 15 years, and he received the award as one of South Carolina’s “Legal Elite” attorneys in 2022. If you’re facing child custody concerns in South Carolina, reach out to us today by calling 864-778-2734 to schedule a consultation.
