St. Charles Family Law Attorneys Who Know Missouri Child Custody Law
In matters of child custody, Missouri and Illinois law focuses on the best interests of the child. Courts look at the facts of each case and consider a series of factors, including the child's relationship with each parent, the child's home situation and, if the child is old enough, the child's wishes.
Courts consider both physical and legal custody:
- Physical custody: Physical custody is where the child will live. Physical custody can be called joint or sole custody. If custody is roughly proportionate, most courts call it joint physical custody. Where custody is more disportionate, one parent has sole physical custody with the other parent having temporary custody and vistiation rights. In joint physical custody cases, the court selects a residential parent for school and mailing purposes.
- Legal custody: Legal custody is the power to make major decisions in the child's life. These include decisions about education, healthcare and religious upbringing. Courts prefer to give parents joint legal custody unless there are special circumstances, like alcoholism, drug use, the parents are unable to co-parent effectively or family violence.
The Role of the Guardian ad Litem
At Stange Law Firm LLC, founding partner Paola Stange is a trained guardian ad litem in addition to being a lawyer. Her knowledge of the role of guardian ad litems is especially beneficial to clients because guardians often play a large role in deciding child custody and visitation.
Guardians ad litem are often appointed by the court when abuse or neglect is suspected, but they can also be appointed at a judge's discretion. When appointed, they conduct an in-depth investigation of the family situation and issue a report to the court. Judges take the guardian's report seriously.
For this reason, it is critical to put your best foot forward when working with a guardian ad litem. Make sure you have the right attitude both in the courtroom and outside of it. Avoid causing fights or disruptions, saying inflammatory things or engaging in name calling. Make a positive impression by showing patience and common sense.
Contact a St. Louis Child Custody Attorney
To learn more about the law on child custody, contact us online or by phone to schedule a free and confidential hour consultation at any of our convenient locations throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area, in St. Louis County, St. Charles, Jefferson County, and St. Louis City, Missouri, and Belleville, Illinois.
Saint Louis County Office: 314-219-1865 Click to learn more about this location.
Jefferson County (Arnold) Office: 636-333-0396 Click to learn more about this location.
St. Charles Office: 636-940-5900 Click to learn more about this location.
Belleville Office: 618-505-4643 Click to learn more about this location
Saint Louis City Office: 314-499-8340 Click to learn more about this location.
