Bentonville Child Custody Lawyers

Child custody cases are complex and carry with them a multitude of sensitive issues that can easily become contentious. These legal proceedings can be fueled by feelings of anger, bitterness, and enmity, all of which can be attributed to fear of losing time with your child, the ability to make decisions regarding their upbringing, or even physical custody altogether. Additionally, you may be concerned about the financial support you will have to pay or receive, as well as ensuring your child is protected from any unsafe environments or abuse. With so much at stake, it is important to seek legal counsel to guide you through these delicate matters.

At Bundy Law Office, we understand that child custody and support battles can be some of the most difficult and emotionally trying legal issues to navigate. Our team of attorneys in Bentonville have years of experience helping countless clients in similar situations by creating personalized solutions that are best for them and their families. We take the time to get to know your situation and goals before crafting a unique strategy to pursue the best possible outcome for you. 

If you're looking for experienced, compassionate, and dedicated child custody representation, Bundy Law Office is here to help. Call (918) 992-2142 today.

Child Custody & Support Cases We Resolve

Our Bentonville child custody lawyers help families with a variety of issues relating to child custody and support. These issues include:

• Parental rights
• Paternity
• Child abuse and emergencies
• Protective orders for victims of domestic violence
• Interstate or international moves or parental abductions
• Same-sex custody 
• Child support and custody appeals
• Guardianships of minor children
• Adoptions

At our firm, we recognize the complexities and emotional toll that child custody cases can bring. We understand that you want what's best for your children and that your family's well-being is of utmost priority. Therefore, our team is dedicated to providing you with the support and legal guidance necessary to navigate this difficult process. You can trust us to work diligently to have your case move efficiently, so that you can focus on your family during this challenging time.

How Child Custody Is Determined in Arkansas

Arkansas courts strive to make child custody decisions based on what is best for the child involved. When deciding on custody arrangements, the court considers a number of factors to identify the child’s best interests.

Some of the key factors include:

• How the custody arrangement will affect the child’s relationships, home, school, and community environment.
• The financial, mental, and physical well-being of both parents.
• The relationship between both parents and the child.
• Whether either parent is a registered sex offender.
• The child’s preferences.
• Whether either parent is abusive or has a pattern of domestic violence.
• The parents’ ability to cooperate in their custody agreement.

While the specifics of each case are taken into account, the ultimate goal remains the same: to ensure that the child's well-being is the top priority.

Types of Child Custody in Arkansas

Arkansas custody laws utilize legal and physical custody. Legal custody covers important decision-making areas such as education, healthcare, and religion. Physical custody, on the other hand, concerns the child's day to day care and living arrangements. This type of custody generally involves the child living with one parent while the other handles basic necessities such as food, clothing, and safety.

The types of child custody include:

• Sole legal custody: One parent has the right and responsibility to make all major decisions that affect the child’s life.
• Joint legal custody: Both parents share decision-making. However, a judge can give one parent power to make certain decisions themselves while other decisions are to be made by both parents.
• Sole physical custody: The child lives with one parent on an everyday basis.
• Joint physical custody: There is a division of time that the child spends with both parents. The child spends time with each of the parents who also share the rights and responsibilities of raising the child.

Is Joint Custody Favored in Arkansas?

In Arkansas, joint custody is favored. There is a “rebuttable presumption” that joint custody is in the best interest of the child and the judge will presume so. However, if either parent can offer evidence to “rebut” the presumption, it can be challenged. 

The judge may find that joint custody is not in the best interest of the child if the following apply:

• The judge finds that there is clear evidence that joint custody will not be in the child’s best interest.
• The parents come to an agreement on all custody issues and decide on their own custody terms.
• One parent does not request sole, primary, or joint custody; or
• One of the parties offers evidence that convinces the judge to give one parent sole custody.

Ultimately, the best interest of the child is the top priority for the judge, and they will base their decision on what is in their best interest.

How Is Child Support Determined in Arkansas?

When it comes to determining the amount of child support in Arkansas, the state has established Family Support Guidelines to guide the process. These guidelines take into account the noncustodial parent's ability to pay. Charts are located on the Arkansas Judiciary website. 

It's important to note that while the guidelines provide a framework for determining child support, every case is unique and may require some flexibility to ensure the best outcome for the child involved.

Contact Bundy Law Office for Results-Driven Child Custody & Support Services

Child custody and support conflicts can be incredibly trying for parents and children alike. That's why we're here to help. Our team at Bundy Law Office is dedicated to providing personalized, representation that will help you navigate the complex world of family court. 

In addition, we can help direct you to quality, third-party resources such as child counselors and psychologists to create a cohesive plan that meets your specific needs and the court's standards.

If you're facing custody issues, don't hesitate to reach out to our Bentonville child custody lawyers. Call (918) 992-2142 or contact us online to learn more about how we can help.