Child Custody Lawyers Helping You in Fort Wayne, Indiana in Allen County
Navigating any legal matter can be challenging, and child custody disputes are often especially difficult. In these cases, parents are typically most concerned about parenting time, decision-making authority, and protecting their relationship with their children. When you are facing a complex custody issue, it is important to work with an attorney who will place your rights as a parent at the forefront while ensuring that your children’s well-being remains the top priority.
The Indiana child custody attorneys at Stange Law Firm understand that children are the most important part of any custody matter. When you choose to retain our firm for a child custody case in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and throughout Allen County, our attorneys are committed to guiding you through each step of the process with care, compassion, and clear communication.
In some child custody cases, reaching a settlement may offer an efficient and practical resolution. However, when parents hold differing views about what arrangement best serves their children, settlement may not be possible. In those situations, our attorneys are prepared to advocate for you, ensuring that your position is clearly presented and that your voice is heard both inside and outside the courtroom.
At Stange Law Firm, we bring significant experience and skill to child custody matters. We maintain a conveniently located office in Fort Wayne, Indiana, allowing us to serve clients throughout Allen County with accessibility and responsive representation.
Fort Wayne Child Custody Lawyers Ready to Assist You With Custody Matters in Allen County, Indiana
To provide you with more information, you can also browse articles about domestic relations, view informational videos and seminar videos, listen to our podcast, or download our mobile application.
You can also learn more about the Allen County Court by visiting the following websites below. It is still important, however, to speak about your situation with a child custody attorney in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
- Allen County Circuit Clerk’s Office: More details about the Allen County Circuit Clerk’s office can be found at this link.
- Allen County Court Rules: More details about the Allen County local court rules can be found here.
- Allen County Domestic Relations Law Forms: Find the Allen County legal forms that you are looking for here.
- Fort Wayne, Indiana Government in Allen County: If you are interested in learning more about the government of Fort Wayne, IN, visit this website.
- Allen County Courthouse: Click here for the address and directions to the Allen County Circuit Court.
Child Custody in Fort Wayne, Indiana
Child custody matters in Fort Wayne, Indiana, are governed by Indiana family law and commonly arise during a dissolution of marriage, paternity actions, or proceedings to modify an existing custody order. When parents are unable to reach an agreement regarding custody and parenting time, the court will enter orders intended to protect the child’s best interests while providing stability and continuity.
Indiana courts emphasize child-centered outcomes that support safety, emotional well-being, and consistent parental involvement.
How Indiana Courts Determine Custody
Indiana courts decide custody by applying the best interests of the child standard. Rather than relying on a single factor, judges consider a variety of circumstances that affect the child’s overall welfare.
Factors the court may evaluate include:
The child’s age and developmental needs
The wishes of each parent
The child’s preferences, particularly as the child matures
The child’s relationships with parents, siblings, and other significant individuals
The child’s adjustment to home, school, and community
The mental and physical health of all parties
Any history of domestic violence or family misconduct
Each parent’s ability to provide a stable and supportive home
Indiana law does not favor one parent over the other based on gender or financial status.
Types of Custody in Indiana
Indiana recognizes both legal custody and physical custody, which may be awarded jointly or solely depending on the child’s needs.
Legal Custody
Legal custody involves decision-making authority over major matters affecting the child, including education, medical care, and religious upbringing.
Joint legal custody allows both parents to share decision-making responsibilities
Sole legal custody gives one parent primary authority to make major decisions
Physical Custody
Physical custody determines where the child lives and how daily care is provided.
Joint physical custody allows both parents to share parenting time and responsibilities
Sole physical custody places primary caregiving responsibility with one parent, with parenting time awarded to the other
Courts may combine legal and physical custody in a way that best serves the child.
Parenting Time and Parenting Plans
Indiana courts frequently require parents to submit a parenting plan outlining schedules, holiday arrangements, transportation responsibilities, and decision-making authority. The Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines are often used as a reference point, though courts may adjust schedules based on the child’s needs and family circumstances.
Custody Issues Involving Unmarried Parents
When parents are not married, custody and parenting rights are established through a paternity action. Once parentage is legally established, either parent may request custody or parenting time orders.
Domestic Violence and Child Safety
Indiana courts must consider any evidence or allegations of domestic violence when making custody determinations. If safety concerns exist, the court may restrict parenting time, require supervised visitation, or impose other protective conditions to safeguard the child.
Modifying a Child Custody Order
Custody orders may be modified when there has been a substantial change in circumstances and the requested modification would be in the child’s best interests. Courts evaluate modification requests carefully to balance stability with the child’s evolving needs.
Child Custody Matters in Fort Wayne and Allen County
Families in Fort Wayne resolve child custody matters under Indiana law through the courts serving Allen County. Parenting plans are commonly required, and mediation may be encouraged to help parents reach workable solutions. The court’s primary goal is to establish custody arrangements that promote the child’s long-term stability, safety, and well-being.
Contact Fort Wayne, Indiana Child Custody Attorneys in Allen County
If you have questions regarding a child custody case in Fort Wayne or throughout the Allen County area, and are looking to find a child custody attorney, Stange Law Firm’s attorneys are here to help. You can contact us online or by calling the number below to schedule your consultation.
Allen County (Fort Wayne), Indiana Office (260-802-4402) | 7230 Engle Rd, Suite 200, Fort Wayne, IN 46804
