Ending a marriage or a long-term relationship is never an easy process, especially when children are involved. Finding the best solution when it comes to child custody is perhaps the most important aspect of successfully moving on after a breakup.
Child custody laws in Nebraska ultimately rest on one question: What is in the best interest of the child? The court will constantly be asking that question throughout the process before issuing a final parenting plan. The child’s best interest will override individual preferences of each parent.
Joint Custody
Depending on one’s situation, you may reach various arrangements without having to go through a hearing. In general, both parents have joint custody or one party has sole custody (with visitation rights for the other). The parent with decision-making rights for the child (such as school arrangements and health care decisions) has legal custody. Physical placement is the actual living location of the child.
Agreeing to “joint custody” does not always mean that there will be both joint legal and physical custody. Depending on where the parents live, their work situation, and other factors, it may be impractical for parents to have full joint physical placement. The child may be best served by living primarily with one parent. In those situations there still may be joint legal custody with both parents having an equal say in important decisions for their child. These are the intricacies that an attorney can help you work out during your case. This can be especially helpful if you find it challenging to come an agreement with the other parent.
Child Support
It is important to understand the role that custody determinations have on child support. In Nebraska, the courts use specific formulas and worksheets to determine how much support (if any) is owed by one parent to the child. The worksheet used and support owed is influenced by many factors, including the exact custody arrangement.
Contact a Family Law Attorney in Nebraska
If you have questions about legal custody in Nebraska, it is important to seek out trained professionals to advocate on your behalf. The family law attorneys at Johnson & Pekny, L.L.C. have offices in Omaha, Plattsmouth and Blair, and are experienced with myriad issues, including divorce and custody. Contact us today to learn more.