Child Custody in Connecticut
Connecticut courts make custody decisions based on the best interests of the child. Legal custody refers to the right to make major decisions about a child’s education, medical care, and religious upbringing. Physical custody refers to where the child lives. Both can be sole or joint.
Joint legal custody is common in Connecticut even when one parent has primary physical custody. The courts generally believe that children benefit from having both parents involved in major life decisions, absent evidence of abuse, neglect, or other factors that make joint custody inappropriate.
When parents cannot agree on custody, the court may appoint a Guardian ad Litem to represent the child’s interests in the proceeding. We work effectively with Guardians ad Litem and with the family court system at Danbury Superior Court.
Child Support in Connecticut
Connecticut calculates child support using a formula based on the combined net income of both parents and the custody arrangement. The formula produces a guideline amount that the court is expected to follow absent specific reasons to deviate.
Child support can be modified when there is a substantial change in circumstances — such as a significant change in either parent’s income or a change in the custody arrangement. Support obligations generally continue until the child turns 18 or graduates high school, whichever is later, up to age 19.
Post-Judgment Modifications
Divorce decrees and custody orders are not necessarily permanent. Connecticut law allows for modifications when circumstances change substantially. Common modification requests include changes to custody and visitation schedules, adjustments to child support based on income changes, and modifications to alimony.
We handle post-judgment modification proceedings in Danbury Superior Court and throughout western Connecticut.
Adoption in Connecticut
Connecticut adoption proceedings include stepparent adoptions, agency adoptions, private adoptions, and relative adoptions. Each type has different procedural requirements and timelines. We guide families through the adoption process from start to finish, ensuring all legal requirements are met and the adoption is finalized properly.
Protective Orders and Restraining Orders
Connecticut family courts issue restraining orders in cases involving domestic violence or harassment. If you need protection or if you have been served with a restraining order, legal representation is critical. The consequences of violating a restraining order in Connecticut include arrest and criminal charges.
We represent both those seeking protection and those who have been improperly served with restraining orders.