Child Custody Lawyers in New Jersey

Helping You Maintain Access to Your Children

Child custody is often the most contentious issue in divorce cases. Even in the most complex cases, parents want what is in the best interests of their children, but they often have different ideas about what is best.

At Townsend, Tomaio & Newmark, L.L.C., in Morristown, New Jersey, our New Jersey child custody attorneys have the skill and sophistication to handle the complex issues involved in child custody. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our experienced child custody attorneys in New Jersey.

Paying Attention to the Child’s Best Interests

In determining child custody and visitation arrangements, the legal standard is the best interests of the child. It is important for a child to have the love and support of both parents, but there are some situations where that is not possible.

The general presumption under New Jersey family law is that it is in the best interests of the child to have a close, regular relationship with both parents.

If a parent has been abusive to a child, has problems with drugs or alcohol, or has a new spouse or partner with one of these problems, the court may impose protective measures.

Child custody and visitation decisions are supposed to be gender-neutral, regardless of the age of the child. We can advise you on the extent to which the courts in your area adhere to this standard.

Dividing Up Time While Supporting Parenting Relationships

Under normal circumstances, one parent will be given the responsibility for the child’s primary residence, and the other parent’s home will be considered the child’s alternate residence, with visitation divided up according to a schedule. In certain situations, joint physical custody may be appropriate. The two parents will normally have joint legal custody: an equal right to participate in decisions about the child’s health, education and welfare.

Child custody and visitation orders are subject to modification when the underlying circumstances change. For example, if the parenting schedule is becoming unworkable or one parent overcomes a personal problem, the courts can change the visitation schedule. If a parent wants to relocate out of state, this may also require court approval or consent of the child's other parent.

Contact Our Morristown Child Custody Attorneys

If you have any concerns about child custody, don’t hesitate to contact us. We serve clients in North and Central Jersey, including Morris County, Somerset County, Essex County, Union County, Hunterdon County, Bergen County, Passaic County, Sussex County, Warren County, Mercer County, Middlesex County and Monmouth County.