Custody & Access Rights

Careful consideration is important in establishing what’s in the “best interests” of children. Every situation is different, so our goal is to achieve the best outcome based on your specific objectives. 

Blank Rome’s matrimonial and family law attorneys can advise and represent you in negotiating, mediating, and litigating child custody issues, including visitation and parental decision-making on education, religion, medical care, and other issues.

How We Can Help

Child Custody and Visitation

Negotiated or mediated custody arrangements are in the best interests of the children as well as the parents. Not only do these types of agreements keep disputes private and out of court, but they often lead to mutually agreeable parenting approaches that preserve balance and harmony for the children.

We work with you to focus on your child-related goals and concerns and develop ‘win-win’ situations for your families. When agreements cannot be reached, we will explore court-mandated actions, pursuing an individual’s rights and remedies to the fullest extent of the law.

Interstate Custody

At Blank Rome, we preserve parents’ rights while seeking timely and safe resolutions to often highly volatile and specialized interstate custody disputes.

Although laws affecting custody vary from state to state, the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act determines which state governs a child’s custody when residents of different states are involved. We are experienced in the proper interpretation and application of interstate custody laws, with extensive knowledge of remedies available under the federal Parental Kidnapping Prevention Act.

We also work with you on “move-away” situations, where one parent seeks to relocate a significant distance with a child or children. Without careful intervention, these scenarios can often develop into contentious disputes. With a careful understanding of your wishes and goals, we negotiate and advocate for custody, support, and visitation agreements, whether between the parties or in court.