Cedar Rapids Child Custody Lawyers

The only exception is if one parent has a history indicating they could emotionally or physically harm the child. This includes a history of child abuse, substance abuse, or domestic violence. This can also include whether one parent has knowingly allowed a registered sex offender unsupervised access to their child.

When determining custody arrangements, courts consider:

• The child’s age, health, and needs
• Each parent’s age, health, and stability
• The ability of each parent to communicate with each other about the child's needs
• The child’s relationship with each parent and their siblings
• The proximity of each parent’s residence
• The child's wishes for custody, taking the child's age and maturity into account

Different states also recognize different forms of custody. The state of Iowa recognizes two types of custody: legal and physical.

• Legal custody gives a parent the right to make decisions about major matters in the child’s life. These decisions include medical care, education, religion, safety, and more.
• Physical custody dictates with whom the child will reside.

In general, courts favor joint custody arrangements. However, they do allow sole physical custody that includes visitation rights or overnights for the non-custodial parent. If you need help establishing a parenting agreement or even sole custody, reach out to our firm today for compassionate legal representation.

Powerful Representation in Custody Cases

No matter how challenging your custody case may be, Howes Law Firm, P.C. can help. Discuss your unique case with one of our child custody attorneys in Cedar Rapids during a free consultation to learn more.

Our attorneys offer experienced legal counsel and representation in child custody matters. Reach out to our law firm in Cedar Rapids at (319) 264-2922 today.