Compassionate, Resourceful Representation In Child Custody Matters

If you’re a parent about to go through a divorce, the well-being of your children is likely your primary concern. The thought of losing any time with your kids is understandably unsettling, and you may already be playing out the worst-case custody scenarios in your mind.

Now is the perfect time to consult with an experienced family law attorney. I’m attorney Laura Greco Naylor of Greco Law, PLLC. My practice is primarily focused on Massachusetts family law, and I offer personalized attention and customized legal representation to each client. I start by listening to your concerns and helping you know what to expect. Then we collaborate on a strategy designed to meet your needs and goals.

The Basics Of Child Custody In Massachusetts

Terminology around custody continues to change and evolve, so it is understandable that many people get confused. There are two types of child custody: legal and physical. Legal custody refers to a parent’s authority to make important decisions on behalf of their child on topics like religion, education and medical care. It is common for divorced parents to share legal custody, but courts can deviate from this.

The other type of custody is physical custody, also called parenting time. It refers to the time that each parent is physically with the child and the child is in their care. Family law judges like to keep both parents actively involved in their children’s lives when possible, but the allocation of parenting time won’t necessarily be exactly equal. It’s common for one parent to have a greater share of parenting time, making him or her the primary custodial parent.

Courts are required to make custody decisions in the best interests of the children. No matter what your custody goals may be, your arguments should be framed by what is best for your kids.

Negotiation Can Be More Effective And Peaceful

If you and your spouse can create a parenting plan together (often during mediation), the court will likely approve it as long as it meets the best interests of the children. This approach gives you more control over the outcome of the case, compared to leaving the decision up to a judge who doesn’t know you or your children. But it requires a joint willingness to negotiate and compromise, which isn’t possible for every couple.

If your spouse will not negotiate, I will help you draft and submit a proposed parenting plan to the court for consideration, along with a carefully considered rationale for why/how the plan meets the best interests of your kids.

Discuss Your Needs With A Skilled And Caring Family Law Attorney

Greco Law, PLLC, is located in Woburn, Massachusetts, and serves clients throughout Essex, Suffolk and Middlesex counties. I have over 25 years of experience in the legal industry, and I am proud to help parents protect their relationships with their children during and after divorce. To schedule your initial consultation with my firm, call the office at 978-806-6922 or send me an email.

The information provided on this site is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal advice.  Consult an attorney to obtain individual legal advice. Please be advised that this material may constitute advertising under the rules of the Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts.