Morris Plains Child Custody Attorneys
Protect Your Parental Rights in Morris Plains, NJ
Child custody cases are some of the most emotional family law matters since they impact your entire family’s future. As such, it is important to ensure you receive the legal counsel of a lawyer who puts your and your child’s best interests first. At Lane and Lane, LLC, we pride ourselves on our commitment to our clients. We promise to put your family first.
Steps to Secure Child Custody in Morris Plains
Here are the steps to follow to obtain child custody in New Jersey:
Fill out the appropriate forms
You can access these forms on the New Jersey court website, or you can have your lawyer assist you with this process.
Draft a custody complaint
This will include information about you, your co-parent, and your child, as well as the type of custody you are seeking, your parenting plan, and any issues that may arise related to custody or parenting time. This complaint must be filed in the superior court of the county where the child resides (if he/she does not live with you). You will also determine which type of custody you are seeking.
Attend mandatory mediation sessions
You and your co-parent will attempt to come to a custody agreement before going to trial. This does not apply if a restraining order is in place due to allegations of domestic violence.
Undergo an investigation period
If parents cannot resolve their custody issues through mediation, the law allows the court to hold investigations before determining custody. The investigation will review each parent’s character, economic condition, fitness, home life, and criminal record (if applicable).
Attend your custody trial
Each side will present evidence as to why they would like the type of custody arrangement they suggested. The court will make a custody decision based on the best interests of the child factors. Once custody has been awarded, either parent can modify the arrangement if a substantial change in circumstance that affects the child’s welfare happens.
What are the Types of Child Custody in New Jersey?
There are two types of custody in New Jersey: legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody grants decision-making rights to one or both parents, and physical custody determines where the child will reside.
Custody is further divided into sole custody, meaning one parent has custody, and joint custody, meaning both parents share custody.
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“It's always difficult when you are dealing with divorce situations. Daniel Lane really helped by understanding my dilemmas and providing honest and realistic feedback. Would definitely recommend their services.”- Karen J.
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“Eric was with me every step of the way and I felt that he had my best interests at heart.”- Aus
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“Best law firm you could ever hope to have on your side!!! Dan Lane is my divorce attorney and he is the best lawyer ever! He has literally won every single battle for me!!! Every time I go into the office everyone is so friendly and amazing!!! Dan’s secretary Victoria is the sweetest person ever! She always keeps me on top of everything!! I couldn’t have found a better lawyer than Dan, not once has he let me down on my entire divorce. Dan truly cares about his clients and every single time I have a concern or worry he calls me or emails me and reassures me even if he’s not in the office!! I honestly wish Dan could be my lawyer for everything I ever need to go to court for because he is a winner and the very best!”- Brittany L.
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“Steven worked diligently to represent my best interests. He went above and beyond to be sure I understood every detail of every document relevant to my divorce. He spoke to me with respect and in a down-to-earth manner. His efforts resulted in a very favorable decision, weighted on my side of the field. I have already referred Steve and his firm to friends, at least one of whom has hired him. Well done L&L. Thank you.”- Billy M.
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“Dan's patience and understanding allowed me to put trust in someone at a time when that was most difficult for me.”- Dominic
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“Dan and his team were always there to answer any of my questions as well as always keeping me informed as to what is going on.”- Scott D.
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“I can't say enough positive things about this firm. I dealt primarily with Eric Lane and he was nothing short of a "consummate professional". He was there for me at every turn in my case, ready to provide whatever support was needed by me. Not only was he able to deliver a satisfactory result in my situation, but he legitimately exceeded expectations. I don't hope to have to require legal representation again anytime soon, but if I do there is no doubt that I will be turning to Eric and company at Lane & Lane.”- Christian P.
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“Lane & Lane did a great job representing me in my divorce. Dan Lane is the best - I highly recommend him!”- Beth Ann L.
