Custody / Parenting Time

Indianapolis Child Custody Attorney

Parents want the best for their children. During and after a divorce, however, the potential for conflict between the parents over child custody and visitation matters can deeply affect a parent's relationship with a child.

At Ruppert & Schaefer, P.C., we strive to achieve workable child custody and visitation outcomes that protect the rights of the client and promote the best interests of the child.

Our firm can address all your child custody issues, including:

• Sole custody and joint custody
• Parenting time and visitation
• Modifications in custody and visitation
• Parental relocations
• Termination of parental rights
• Child custody evaluations
• And others

About Child Custody

There are two basic forms of child custody in Indiana. The most common form is sole legal custody, where one parent has primary physical custody of a child and the non-custodial parent has visitation rights. The custodial parent has the primary responsibility for making decisions for the child.

The other form of custody is joint legal custody, in which one parent usually has primary physical custody, and the other has visitation rights. However, both parents must consult each other and discuss any important decisions affecting the child such as those involving education, health care, and religion.

A third form of custody is joint legal and physical custody where the parties actually have a somewhat equal division of physical custody of the child. This arrangement works more smoothly if both parties live in close proximity and if they can cooperate and get along for the sake of the child.

If the parties are unable to agree on visitation or parenting time terms, there is a presumption that the Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines will be applicable. Of course, there are circumstances where the Guidelines may not be appropriate.

For more information, contact us.

A Strong Advocate For Your Rights and Your Children

Ruppert & Schaefer, P.C. has the legal skills to obtain results in family law cases. Our negotiating skills often enable us to obtain a workable solution that is acceptable to both parents. In other cases, our lawyers utilize mediation to achieve similar solutions. When necessary, we undertake assertive litigation to protect our client's rights and those of the children.

Your child deserves an enriching relationship with you. Ruppert & Schaefer, P.C. will work to ensure that your child custody rights are protected.

For a consultation with Ruppert & Schaefer, P.C., call 317.580.9295 or contact us online.