(613) 688-0462Child Custody Lawyers in Ottawa
Child Custody and Access Disputes Lawyer
A child custody dispute can become one of the most psychologically draining aspects of a separation or divorce. Emotions of both parents run high, confusion and uncertainty are present, and questions about the outcome seem endless. No matter what your child custody and access arrangement is, it is important to follow what was agreed to by the parents or court-ordered to ensure you do not become your own worst enemy by breaching the terms and thereby interrupting your visitation rights with your child. This rule applies to written separation agreements derived from mediation as well as orders made by a judge in court.
As a parent involved in a child custody legal battle, it is essential to avoid activities that may jeopardize access to your child. It is crucial that you are aware of the types of behavior that would affect your child custody arrangement. Any type of behavior that would draw attention of the Children’s Aid Society would be on top of the list.
Modification in Child Custody and Access Arrangement
It is the right of a parent to apply for a modification in the child custody and access arrangement based on the material change in circumstances of either parent or the child. If such change has a negative impact or a potential negative impact on the child’s development and well-being, custody variations will occur. The legal test that the judges rely on when making decisions in child custody cases is “the best interests of the child”.
When to Involve your Ottawa Child Custody Lawyer
Should you find out that the other parent is engaging in any type of behaviors indicated below, it is essential to immediately contact your Ottawa Child Custody lawyer :
- Substance Abuse
- Sexual, Emotional, or Physical Abuse
- Negligence
- Unwillingness or Inability To Provide Medical Care to the Child
Other behaviors could also be deemed as putting a child at risk and may lead to a child custody variation Order. Such behaviors are:
- Denying or restricting the other parent’s legal rights to visit their child as per the child custody agreement or court Order
- Influencing the child to alienate the other parent
- Not sharing information about the child with the other parent in regards to the child’s health, well-being or whereabouts
- Not consulting the other parent when making major decisions in regards to the child (this applies to joint custody arrangements).
It is essential that you as a parent provide a stable environment to your child and that you are mentally and physically stable yourself. You need to be consistent and adherent to your child’s needs and routine as these are powerful denominators influencing a child custody ruling.
If you or the other parent relocate to another city the child custody arrangement may be revisited. Thus before you make a major decision, such as this, it is crucial to discuss the matter and the possible outcomes with your child custody lawyer in Ottawa.
Regardless of the type of child custody arrangement – shared, joint or sole; it is the responsibility and obligation of both parents to ensure the best interests of the child.
An experienced divorce lawyer will guide you through the legal process and determine if you should apply for a child custody variation. Significant changes either parent goes through can mean a change in their custody and access rights to the child. A Child Custody lawyer protects your interests and helps to eliminate the conflict between the parents. A child custody battle is a battle that should not be entered into without proper representation as knowledge of the law and experience are extremely important in such matters. A child custody lawyer will protect your rights and become your voice of reason as well as your advocate.
