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Des Moines Child Custody Attorney

Advocates for Child Custody and Child Support

Parent with child custody

Divorce can be very hard on your children. Our custody lawyers in Iowa are ready to help you fight for your child's best interest. Reach out to Hope Law Firm for an advocate in your parental rights. Our child custody attorneys in Des Moines can guide you every step of the way through this complex process.

Contact us now to find out more about how our Des Moines child custody attorney can help you protect your relationship with your child.

Contact us now to learn more about how we can help you protect your relationship with your child!

Understanding Child Custody Laws in Iowa

A Des Moines custody attorney knows that Iowa law directs that the court must order a child custody award which includes liberal visitation rights. The child will then have the opportunity for continuing physical and emotional contact with both parents. Visitation can be waived if the court deems it likely to harm the child. Below, are the basics of Iowa's child support guidelines.

Sole custody: One parent has legal custodial rights and responsibilities.

Joint custody: Both parents have legal custodial rights and responsibilities. This custody can exist even though a child resides with only one parent.

Joint physical care: Both parents have joint custody and share parenting time.

When establishing the custody arrangement that is best for the child, the court’s considerations include:

  • The geographic proximity of the parents
  • Whether the parents agree to joint custody
  • The safety of the child or the other parent
  • The suitability of each parent to be a custodian
  • The psychological and emotional development of the child
  • The parents’ ability to communicate with each other about the child
  • Each parent’s level of care for the child before and since the separation
  • Whether each parent can support the other’s relationship with the child
  • The child’s wishes, taking into account the child’s age and maturity

In Iowa, parents must attend a course about the effect of divorce on children within 45 days of the custody order.

Iowa Child Custody Laws & Moving Out of State

The laws on relocation do not allow a parent to relocate with their child without a court order. The parent who is sharing legal custody or has physical custody cannot relocate to another state unless he or she can prove to the courts that there was a substantial change in circumstances to support the move.

Discuss Your Case with a Child Custody Lawyer in Des Moines

You know what is best for your children, and we know how to work with you to achieve your goals. Contact Hope Law Firm today and schedule a consultation with our child custody lawyers in Des Moines.

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Contact us online or call us at (515) 305-2772 today to set up a consultation with our Des Moines child custody lawyer!

Why Hire Hope Law Firm?

  • We offer payment plans & flexible hours to meet your needs.
  • We treat you with compassion, honesty, dignity and respect.
  • We take an aggressive approach & have a proven track record.
  • We have a high success rate in handling complex divorce cases.