Portland Child Custody FAQ

Attorneys Dedicated to Handling Child Custody & Child Support Cases in Oregon

What is child custody?
Child custody is a legal term that describes the type of legal relationship a parent and child have.  Generally speaking, child custody is broken down into two separate categories:  physical custody and legal custody.  Physical custody refers to where the child lives and spends his or her time on a day-to-day basis.  Legal custody refers to the right of the parent to make decisions pertaining to his or her child. 

Will I get custody of my child?
It depends.  If you are going through a child custody battle, and the matter cannot be resolved outside of court, a judge will have to review your case and determine if you will get custody of your child.  Before making a decision as to who will get custody of your child, a judge will consider numerous factors, and then make a decision that is in the best interests of your child.  If you are going through a child custody matter, you should consider retaining the services of an experienced Portland child custody lawyer!

Can fathers get custody their children?
Yes, fathers can get sole or joint custody of their children.  In the past, mothers would usually be awarded custody of their children, but this has changed in recent years.  Thanks to the movement of fathers’ rights, more and more fathers are being awarded custody of their children when judges see fit.

What is child support?
Child support is a payment that is made by one parent to another parent to provide for their child’s day-to-day necessities.

What are child support payments for?
Child support payments provide for a child’s day-to-day needs.  These needs include, but are not limited to:  food, clothing, shelter, school expenses, insurance, and medical expenses.

Can I have my child support payments modified?
In cases where you have incurred a substantial change in circumstances, you may file a motion to have your child support payments modified.  For example, if you recently lost your job and have less income, you can file for reduced child support payments.  It is important to remember that you cannot just stop paying child support because you have had a change in circumstance.  You must file a motion and go through the appropriate legal channels before you can have your payments reduced.

If I want to adopt a child, do I need to work with an adoption attorney?
If you are thinking about adopting a child, you should always think about working with a reliable Portland adoption lawyer.  Adoption, like all family law matters, can be very complicated and involves a lot of time and legal paperwork.  If you are unfamiliar with the legal process, you will find that your adoption will be drawn out, or it may even fail to make it to the final legal stages.  By working with an experienced family lawyer, you can rest assured that your adoption will be carried out successfully in minimal time.