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25000 + Consultations
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90 % Win Rate
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5000 + Cases
Las Vegas Child Custody Attorneys
Vigorously Protecting Your Parental Rights in Henderson
For parents, child custody is often one of the most stressful elements of a divorce. When your child’s future is at stake, securing qualified representation is essential to pursuing a favorable outcome. At Smith Legal Group, our child custody lawyers are dedicated to protecting your parental rights and advocating for a workable arrangement that will help your child thrive.
Whether you’re modifying an existing parenting plan or undergoing a contentious divorce with minor children, our firm is ready to help with compassionate counsel and personalized guidance tailored to your unique familial circumstances. Our attorneys have over a decade of experience and approach every case with a strategic, trial-ready mindset to pursue the best possible outcome.
If you’re navigating a child custody dispute in Las Vegas, we can work diligently to protect your child’s future. Contact us online to request a free case evaluation.
Types of Child Custody
There are two primary types of child custody:
- Physical custody determines the child’s primary residence and which caregiver is responsible for their day-to-day care.
- Legal custody dictates authority to make important decisions in a child’s life, such as healthcare, education, and religious upbringing.
Each type of custody can be awarded as joint or sole, meaning either parent may share responsibilities or be granted primary authority (“custodial parent”). Having the right lawyer on your side is vital to preserving a meaningful parent-child relationship.
Understanding the “Best Interests of the Child” Standard
Given the one-sided nature of many custody disputes, many parents wonder how child custody is determined in family court. The good news is that family courts are obligated to prioritize the child’s best interests when determining custody (NRS § 125C.0035). This framework guides custody decisions by focusing on arrangements that best support the child’s safety, stability, and overall well-being.
The judge may consider various factors to reach a decision, including (but not limited to):
- The child’s day-to-day needs
- The mental and physical health of the parents
- The level of conflict and cooperation between co-parents
- The nature of the relationship of the child with each parent
- The ability of the child to maintain a relationship with any sibling
- The ability of each parent to provide a safe and supportive home environment
- Any history of parental abuse, domestic violence, or neglect
- The wishes of the child, if age-appropriate
The court may also consider the child’s ties to their home, school, and community, as well as any factors that may affect the child’s physical or emotional well-being.
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Showed Us Love and Compassion
“Kurt Smith at Smith Legal Group helped me out so much. Couldn’t thank him enough for the love and compassion he showed my family! Great and very clean office. Highly recommend.”- Hallie Z. -
They Truly Made A Difference
“From the very beginning, they went above and beyond to help us. Their professionalism, dedication, and excellent customer service made such a difference. They truly care about their clients and work hard.”- Ivonne A. -
Professional and Prompt
“My family and I are repeat clients of Smith Legal Group. All our questions and concerns were met with professional and prompt responses. Truly your case will be considered top importance as with all of their cases.”- Brooke B.
Can a Child Choose Which Parent to Live With?
A child can’t legally decide who to live with, but this doesn’t mean their feelings aren’t considered. If the child is of a sufficient age and capacity, the court may consider their preference in the wider context of the “best interests of the child” framework.
Our attorneys are familiar with these legal nuances to help you understand how your child’s preference may be viewed by the court and present compelling evidence of your involvement in your child’s life to strengthen your position.
Is Joint Custody Preferred by Family Courts in Nevada?
Yes. Family courts are statutorily required to presume that joint custody is in the best interests of the child. Parents are typically awarded joint custody unless there are issues involving abuse, drugs, criminal activity, or mental illness.
Unfortunately, many parents face unfair allegations due to spite or ulterior motives. If you’re accused of being an unfit parent, we can help you respond with clear evidence that reflects your actual involvement and keeps the focus on your child.
What Is Parenting Time?
Parenting time or visitation refers to the amount of time each parent spends with the child. If one parent is awarded primary physical custody (one parent has the child more than 60% of the time during the year), the other parent is typically granted parenting time or visitation rights.
If both parents share joint physical custody (both parents have the child at least 40% of the year), courts often use a benchmark “30-30” rule that prioritizes a minimum 30% baseline of parenting time. Common schedules include a “2-2-3” or “week-on/week-off” rotation.
How We Work to Protect Your Child’s Future
When you’re navigating a child custody case, you need an attorney who understands the intricacies of parenting time, visitation, and the overlapping impacts on child support and other family law matters.
Below are some important ways that we work to protect your child’s future:
Building a Clear Record of Your Parenting Involvement
Custody decisions often come down to what the court can verify. We can organize school records, medical involvement, communication logs, and other documentation that reflects your consistent role in your child’s daily life, so your involvement isn’t left open to interpretation.
Responding to High-Conflict Situations
When communication breaks down, misunderstandings can quickly escalate into legal disputes. We can facilitate structured communication in a way that reduces conflict, limits unnecessary back-and-forth, and creates a documented record that can be relied on if court involvement becomes necessary.
Preparing for Custody Hearings & Court Appearances
Custody hearings can feel overwhelming and necessitate careful preparation. We can walk you through what to expect, help you understand the focus of each stage, and organize key points so you can present your position strongly without being caught off guard in court.
Addressing False or Exaggerated Allegations
Custody disputes sometimes involve claims that don’t reflect your lived reality. We can respond with timely documentation and context that corrects inaccuracies early, so the court has a balanced understanding of your role before any rash decisions are made.
Ongoing Support for Modifications & Enforcement
We understand that your child’s needs evolve over time. Whether you’re relocating for a new career opportunity or seeking to hold an ex accountable for parenting plan violations, we can help you prepare a well-evidenced petition that supports the requested modification or enforcement.
Protecting Your Parental Rights
In serious scenarios involving allegations of dependency or neglect (D&N), parents may face the terrifying possibility of parental rights termination. From contesting unfounded allegations to representing you at hearings, we can fight tirelessly to preserve your right to be in your child’s life.
Facing a child custody battle can be nerve-racking, but you don’t have to fight alone. Call (702) 919-5956 to schedule a free consultation. Se habla español.
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Trial-Ready When It Matters Most
While we work toward practical resolutions whenever possible, we are fully prepared to fight in court when your children, finances, or future is on the line.
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Trusted in High-Stakes Cases
With thousands of family law matters handled across Nevada, we combine local court knowledge, strategic urgency, and personalized guidance to help you.
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Built Around Real Client Support
From free consultations and flexible payment plans to after-hours appointments, we prioritize accessibility, responsiveness, and making you feel heard during difficult transitions.
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Family Law Is All We Do
We handle only family law matters, giving you the advantage of a team deeply experienced in divorce, custody, support, adoption, and other complex family disputes.