Child Custody Attorneys in Portland, Oregon

If you’re a parent, the moments you spend with your children are the most precious times in your life. It can be distressing to even imagine that you could be away from your child for an extended time. If you’re getting a divorce or separating from your partner with whom you share kids, this possibility becomes real.  

While adhering to a child custody arrangement is a normal occurrence when parents go separate ways, you probably don’t want to end up with less custody than the other parent or, in the worst-case scenario, be denied custody altogether.

That’s why you may want to have an attorney represent your interests in negotiations with the other parent or court in front of the judge. The child custody attorneys at Mastanduno Law Group in Portland, Oregon, work hard to help achieve the best arrangement for both clients and their children.  

Types of Custody in Oregon

In Oregon, child custody is divided into two primary categories: 

1. Physical custody refers to where kids live on a day-to-day basis; and 

2. Legal custody refers to a parent’s authority over important aspects of a child's life, such as decisions regarding the child’s medical care, education, and religious upbringing. 

Custody can be either: 

• Sole: One parent has both legal and physical custody; or 

• Joint: Both parents share legal responsibilities, though physical custody may still be primarily with one parent. 

Understanding these distinctions is crucial for parents navigating custody agreements, as they dictate how responsibilities and decision-making are shared post-divorce. If you need help getting a fair custody arrangement, contact the Portland child custody attorneys at Mastanduno Law Group.  

What Is a Parenting Plan?

A parenting plan is a comprehensive document that outlines custody arrangements and parenting time. It details how parents will share responsibilities and time with their children. An effective plan includes:  

• Custody arrangement (sole or joint) 

• Visitation schedule 

• Decision-making responsibilities 

A well-crafted parenting plan addresses everyday issues such as holidays, vacations, and transportation arrangements. It serves as a blueprint to reduce conflicts and helps make sure both parents remain active participants in their child's life.

Visitation Rights

Visitation rights refer to the non-custodial parent's right to spend time with their children. These rights are typically outlined in the parenting plan and aim to ensure that the child maintains a meaningful relationship with both parents.  

Visitation can be standard, supervised, or flexible based on the family's unique dynamics and any specific concerns related to the child's welfare. Courts in Oregon strive to foster a nurturing environment for the child by supporting meaningful interactions with both parents, even when they do not share custody.  

Determining Child Custody When Parents Are Not Married

Unmarried parents have the same rights and responsibilities regarding their children as married parents. Custody and visitation arrangements will be required, and it's wise to formalize these through the court to protect both the child's welfare and parental rights. 

Factors Considered by Oregon Courts When Determining Child Custody 

Oregon courts strive to protect the best interests of the child when issuing court orders regarding child custody. Some of the factors they consider include: 

• The emotional ties between the child and family members 

• The interest of the parents in and attitude toward the child 

• The desirability of continuing an existing relationship 

• The parents’ attitudes toward the child 

• The abuse of one parent by the other 

• The stability of each parent's home environment and their ability to provide for the child's needs 

These and many other factors collectively help the court decide on a custody arrangement that supports the child's emotional and physical well-being.  

Do Courts Give Mothers or Fathers a Preference in Custody Decisions?

Oregon law does not favor mothers over fathers (or vice versa) in custody cases. The primary focus is always the child's best interests, ensuring that decisions support their well-being and stability. 

Each parent's capabilities, involvement, and relationship with the child are assessed equally. This balanced approach reflects the evolving understanding that both mothers and fathers can provide nurturing and stable environments suitable for raising children. 

Can Children in Oregon Decide Which Parent to Live With?

In Oregon, the preference of underage children is not considered in custody cases. Custody arrangements are agreed upon between the parents or determined by the court if parents cannot come to an agreement themselves.

The only scenario in which children in Oregon can choose which parent to live with is if they reach the age of 18 or become emancipated.  

How a Child Custody Attorney Can Help

A child custody attorney plays a crucial role in negotiating and securing a fair and favorable custody arrangement. An attorney can help in the following ways: 

• Offering legal advice tailored to individual circumstances 

• Preparing and filing all necessary documentation 

• Representing clients in court 

A knowledgeable family law attorney can help make sure that custody arrangements are fair, practical, and legally sound, providing peace of mind during what can be an emotionally challenging time. 

Why Choose Mastanduno Law Group?

Choosing the right attorney can make a huge difference in the outcome of a custody case. Mastanduno Law Group is known for its: 

• Honesty and transparency: Providing clear, straightforward information and guidance. 

• Approachable and relaxed client service: Ensuring clients feel comfortable and supported. 

• Deep focus on family law: Offering unparalleled knowledge and experience in family law matters. 

• Local lawyers who care about your case: Bringing personalized attention and dedication to every client. 

• Reasonable fees: Delivering quality legal services at a fair cost. 

For those seeking guidance in child custody matters, contact Mastanduno Law Group to talk about your case and discuss how the firm’s attorneys could help.