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Overview of Child-Related Family Law Matters

• February 16, 2021
• Cloud, Ryan & Rouse, LLC
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Child-related matters of family law are very detailed. It can be challenging to understand how they might apply to your particular situation. By working with an experienced family lawyer, you can be confident that your rights are protected.

Family law is a crucial area of the law. It’s also more intricate and emotionally charged. If you have children or are deeply involved in the lives of children, understanding child-related family law is essential. If you or a child in your life is being impacted by legal matters, having a compassionate Huntsville family lawyer on your side should be your priority. 

Here are some basics in child-related family law. To discuss a specific situation that you might be facing, never hesitate to reach out to our office directly to schedule an appointment and learn how we might help.

Child Custody

Whether you’re going through a divorce or were never married to your child’s other parent, child custody is a serious matter. There’s a lot at stake if you are fighting for custody of your child. Here’s what you need to know:

• Alabama abides by the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA), meaning the courts will honor and enforce all child custody orders from courts in other states.
• Alabama family courts can grant custody to either parent as the court deems right and proper after considering the moral character and prudence of the parents, as well as the age and gender of the child.
• The courts consider many factors when determining custody orders.
• The continued contact of the child with both parents is preferable
• Joint custody doesn’t always mean equal time with each parent

When you meet with a knowledgeable Huntsville family attorney to discuss your case in more specifics, they can tell you how Alabama’s child custody laws might impact your case.

Child Support

Raising a child is a serious and ongoing financial commitment. When both parents are no longer living together, provisions must be made for the financial support of any children they have. Under Alabama’s child support laws:

• Child support amounts are based on a strict income shares formula that including figures for gross monthly income and the child’s health care premiums.
• The courts can deviate from the guidelines if shared physical custody or visitation rights are significantly above those usually approved or ordered by each county.
• In some circumstances, child support amounts can be adjusted, such as in a job loss by the paying parent, a new medical diagnosis for the child, or an increase in income.

Talk to a seasoned Huntsville family lawyer to learn more about Alabama’s child support laws and how they might impact you and your family.

Get Representation from a Knowledgeable Huntsville Family Lawyer 

Family issues involving children can be very stressful. If you are facing family child-related legal issues, the attorneys at Cloud, Ryan & Rouse are here to help. We have an in-depth understanding of the applicable laws and are familiar with the courts here. You will benefit from our knowledge and experience. 

Schedule your consultation with one of our experienced Huntsville family attorneys. Call at 256-801-1000 today or using our simple online contact form.