A Connecticut Custody Application is the way non-married parents set a parenting plan. It is also used for married parents with children who live apart and for divorced parents who failed to address custody and visitation at the time of their divorce.
The Family Court must first determine that it has jurisdiction to hear the case. This usually means that the child must have lived in Connecticut for the last 6 months. If you do not meet this requirement you should consult with a family court lawyer to determine whether an exception applies.
Some of the issues to be addressed in the Custody Application include:
- Physical custody – where the child lives
- Legal custody – decision making
- Visitation – the non-custodial parent’s time with the child
- Child Support – contributing toward the child’s basic needs
At the first court appearance, the parents will meet with a Family Relations Counselor. This is a meeting to discuss these issues. If an agreement is reached, it will be presented to a judge. If there is no agreement, the case may be referred for a Family Relations Evaluation. It may be also be mediated either with Family Relations or through a private mediator.
When there is still a disagreement, the case will go to trial where a judge decides custody and visitation.
At trial, a judge will make decisions that will impact your life and child’s future. If your case is scheduled to trial, experienced legal representation is highly recommended. The issues are far too important and the stakes too high.
Connecticut Custody Application Representation
I represent clients in Connecticut Custody Application proceedings though out Fairfield County including Easton, Fairfield, Monroe, Trumbull, Stratford, Bridgeport, Westport, Weston, New Canaan, Wilton, Norwalk, Darien, Stamford and Greenwich.
Please email me or call me in Stamford at (203) 356-1475 or in Fairfield at (203) 259-5251 if you have questions about a Connecticut Custody Application.