There are few elements as contentious in legal proceedings as child custody and support, except for when a parent is brought back to court to amend an initial order. Knowing how child custody and support are determined can go a long way to securing your legal rights as a parent.
At the law firm of Lorenzi & Barnatt, L.L.P., our Lake Charles child custody attorneys help protect parental rights in custody and support hearings. Our law firm was founded in 1990 by AV Preeminent-rated* attorney Thomas Lorenzi, who has more than 30 years' experience in the practice of law. He knows what it takes to win your case in court.
Resolving Your Child Custody Dispute Through Mediation
We encourage parents to try to work out a child custody arrangement through negotiation, mediation or arbitration, without the necessity of litigation. Above all else, keeping the best interests of the children is a top priority.
Issues often in disagreement include:
- After-school activities
- Lengthy vacation plans
- Where to pick up/drop off a child
- Costs of playing extracurricular sports
- Visitation arrangements for grandparents
When considering child custody, the court looks at many factors, including the needs of the child and the distance between the parents' homes. In mediation talks, we have the same goal in mind. However, if an out-of-court settlement cannot be reached, our attorneys have the skills and experience to vigorously fight for your parental rights in the courtroom.
Calcasieu Parish Child Support Attorney
In Louisiana, child support guidelines have been established to guarantee the ongoing welfare of the child. Most often, the noncustodial parent will be responsible for child support payments based on such factors as:
- The incomes of both parents, including potential income if a parent is voluntarily underemployed or unemployed
- Health insurance premiums used to provide health care coverage for the child
- Extraordinary medical expenses for the child
- Special or private school tuition costs for the child
- Transportation costs from one parent to another
In addition to handling initial support issues that arise when a couple separates, our qualified attorneys are able to represent you at modification hearings and child support enforcement hearings.
Contact a Calcasieu Parish Child Support Attorney Today
As a parent, nothing is more precious than your child. We will fight to protect your parental rights and ensure your child receives the support he or she needs after your divorce. To schedule a confidential appointment to talk over your family law concerns with one of our skilled lawyers, call 337-513-0886 or contact Lorenzi & Barnatt online.
* CV, BV, and AV are registered certification marks of Reed Elsevier Properties Inc., used in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards, and policies.
Martindale-Hubbell is the facilitator of a peer review rating process. Ratings reflect the confidential opinions of members of the Bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell ratings fall into two categories - legal ability and general ethical standards.
