Child Custody Attorneys in Topeka, Kansas in Shawnee County
Dealing with a legal issue involving children can be especially challenging. In custody matters, parents are often concerned about protecting their rights while ensuring their children’s safety, stability, and well-being. When faced with a custody dispute, it is important to have an attorney who takes the time to understand your situation, advocates for your parental rights, and keeps the children’s best interests at the center of the case.
At Stange Law Firm, PC, we recognize that your children are the most important part of any custody matter. When you choose our firm to assist with a child custody case in Topeka, Kansas, and throughout Shawnee County, our attorneys are committed to guiding you through each phase of the process with careful attention, clear communication, and thoughtful representation.
In some cases, a negotiated resolution may provide the most effective outcome for both parents and children. However, when parents disagree on what arrangement best serves their children, settlement may not be possible. In those situations, our attorneys are prepared to advocate for you, ensuring your position is fully presented and your interests are protected both in and out of the courtroom.
Stange Law Firm, PC focuses its practice on child custody matters. Our attorneys bring experience and dedication to each case, and many have received professional recognition for their work, as reflected in their individual biographies. We maintain an office in Topeka, Kansas, allowing us to serve clients throughout Shawnee County with accessibility and convenience.
Topeka, Kansas Child Custody Attorneys Ready to Guide You Through Custody Matters in Shawnee County
You can also learn more about the Shawnee County Court system through the links below. Even with these resources, it remains important to discuss your specific circumstances with a custody attorney.
- Shawnee County Circuit Clerk’s Office: More information can be found here.
- Shawnee County Court Rules: Access them via this link.
- Shawnee County Domestic Relations Law Forms: Locate the forms you need here.
- Topeka, Kansas Government: Learn more about the city at this link.
- Shawnee County Courthouse: Click here for the address and directions.
Child Custody in Topeka, Kansas
Child custody cases in Topeka, Kansas are governed by Kansas family law and may arise during dissolution, parentage actions, or requests to change an existing custody order. When parents are unable to reach an agreement, the court will issue custody and parenting orders designed to support the child’s safety, stability, and overall well-being.
Kansas courts focus on creating custody arrangements that allow children to thrive while encouraging appropriate involvement from both parents.
Key Considerations in Kansas Child Custody Cases
Rather than relying on a single factor, Kansas courts evaluate custody based on the totality of the circumstances. Judges may consider:
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The child’s physical, emotional, and educational needs
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Each parent’s role in the child’s daily life and care
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The child’s adjustment to home, school, and community
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Each parent’s ability to provide a consistent and nurturing environment
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The willingness of each parent to cooperate and support the child’s relationship with the other parent
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Any history of domestic violence, abuse, or neglect
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The mental and physical health of all individuals involved
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The child’s preferences, when the court finds the child sufficiently mature
Kansas law does not favor one parent over the other based on gender, income, or marital status.
Types of Custody and Parenting Arrangements in Kansas
Kansas addresses custody through a combination of legal custody, residency, and parenting time.
Legal Custody
Legal custody concerns who has the authority to make major decisions affecting the child, including matters related to education, healthcare, and general welfare.
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Joint legal custody allows both parents to share decision-making responsibilities
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Sole legal custody places decision-making authority with one parent
Residency
Residency determines where the child primarily lives.
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Primary residency places the child mainly with one parent
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Shared residency allows the child to spend significant time living with both parents
Parenting Time
Parenting time outlines when each parent has time with the child and may include weekday schedules, weekends, holidays, and school breaks.
Courts may order any combination of these arrangements that best meets the child’s needs.
Parenting Time and Continued Parental Involvement
Kansas courts generally support parenting plans that encourage ongoing and meaningful relationships between children and both parents, when appropriate. Parenting schedules are tailored to the child’s age, routine, and family circumstances, to minimize disruption and promote stability.
Custody for Unmarried Parents
For unmarried parents, custody and parenting rights are established through a parentage action. Once legal parentage is confirmed, either parent may request custody, residency, or parenting time orders from the court.
Domestic Violence and Child Safety
Kansas courts are required to consider any allegations or evidence of domestic violence or abuse when making custody determinations. If safety concerns exist, the court may limit parenting time, order supervised visitation, or impose other protective measures to ensure the child’s safety.
Changing a Child Custody Order
Custody orders in Kansas are not permanent and may be modified when circumstances change. A parent seeking modification must show a material change in circumstances and that the requested change would be in the child’s best interests.
Child Custody Matters in Topeka and Shawnee County
Families in Topeka resolve child custody matters under Kansas law through the courts serving Shawnee County. Parenting plans are typically required, and mediation may be encouraged to help parents reach workable solutions. The court’s priority remains establishing custody arrangements that promote the child’s long-term stability, security, and well-being.
Contact Topeka, Kansas Child Custody Attorneys in Shawnee County
If you are navigating a custody case in Topeka or anywhere in Shawnee County and wish to speak with an attorney, the lawyers at Stange Law Firm, PC are available to help. You can contact us online or call the number below to schedule a consultation.
Shawnee County (Topeka), Kansas Office: 785-380-2382 | 800 SW Jackson Street, Suite 812, Topeka, Kansas 66612
