Experienced Child Custody Lawyer in West Bend, WI
When children are involved, legal separation includes formal determinations regarding custody and physical placement. The court focuses on the best interests of the child, considering factors such as parental involvement, stability, and communication. These arrangements provide structure and predictability for families navigating a period of transition.
Understanding Child Custody in Wisconsin
Child custody in Wisconsin is determined based on the best interests of the child. Courts evaluate multiple factors, including parental involvement, stability, and the child’s needs. Custody encompasses both legal authority, which allows parents to make major decisions for their children, and physical placement, which dictates where the child resides. Understanding these distinctions is critical for parents navigating custody issues.
Types Of Custody Arrangements
Wisconsin recognizes several types of custody arrangements, including joint legal custody, sole legal custody, joint physical placement, and sole physical placement. Each arrangement has unique implications for parental decision-making and daily responsibilities. Our firm helps clients understand which arrangement best suits their family circumstances while ensuring the child’s needs are met.
Child Support Guidelines
Child support ensures that children receive financial resources necessary for their well-being. Wisconsin law uses established guidelines to calculate support amounts based on parental income, placement schedules, and other relevant factors. Proper calculation and enforcement of child support are essential to maintaining stability for both the child and the parents involved.
Establishing Custody and Support Orders
Formal custody and child support orders provide clarity and enforceability. The Law Office of Sallie L. Rubenzer assists clients in filing petitions, gathering documentation, and presenting evidence to establish legally binding arrangements. Our goal is to create clear, fair, and enforceable orders that reflect the child’s best interests and the parents’ responsibilities.
Modifying Custody or Support Orders
Life changes, such as relocation, changes in income, or evolving family dynamics, can necessitate modifications to custody or support orders. Legal guidance is critical when requesting modifications to ensure compliance with Wisconsin law and to protect the child’s well-being. Our firm advocates for changes when justified, keeping families informed throughout the process.
Enforcing Custody and Child Support
When existing custody or support orders are not followed, enforcement becomes necessary. Our office assists clients in enforcing orders, addressing non-compliance, and seeking remedies through the court system. Enforcement ensures that parental responsibilities are met and that children continue to receive the support they need.
Ensure That You Have a Fair Child Support Arrangement
Both parents have a duty to support their children. Child support is based on the gross income (after tax) of the payer. If one parent has overnight placement more than 75% of the time, the standard child support guidelines are as follows:
# of children % of gross income
1 17%
2 25%
3 29%
4 31%
5 or more 34%
These percentages may be adjusted if the payer has a particularly high or low income. When the parties share placement (both parents have placement at least 25% of the time), child support is based on both parents' gross income and reflects the percentage of time the children are with each parent.
Custody and Child Support Services in West Bend, WI
If you are navigating a custody or child support matter, contact the Law Office of Sallie L. Rubenzer today. Call 262-353-9329 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free 30-minute consultation with an experienced family law attorney.