Child Custody And Visitation

It has been more than 30 years since the Supreme Court of Alabama rejected the “tender years” doctrine. Prior to 1981, a mother was presumed to be better suited to care for and nurture a young child. In Alabama today, neither the mother nor the father has priority in an initial custody determination.

Parenting Plans Focused On The Best Interests Of Children

Alabama law requires the trial court consider joint custody arrangements in every case, but the trial court may award any form of custody, which is in the best interests of the child. The other forms of custody include:

• Plans where one parent has sole physical and legal custody of the child such that the noncustodial parent only has visitation and no say regarding any decisions involving the child
• True joint custody, where both parents have equal rights and responsibilities for the decisions concerning the child and physical custody is shared in a way that ensures the child has frequent and meaningful contact with each parent

Contact The Riley Law Firm

If you need a Birmingham divorce lawyer in Jefferson County, Shelby County or the surrounding areas to assist you with issues involving children in divorce, contact me online or by calling 205-212-5577.