Obtaining a Connecticut Child Custody Evaluation
Child Custody ◊ Adoption
Whether you are going through a divorce or you have never been married, you want a child custody plan that protects your rights and serves the best interest of your children. At The O'Neil Law Firm in Hartford, we will represent you and protect your interests throughout the child custody evaluation whether a part of your divorce, stepparent adoption, or child custody modification. Contact The O'Neil Law Firm for a free initial consultation.
When involved in a child custody dispute, the court allows parents to choose a lawyer or guardian ad litem to conduct an investigation and make a recommendation to the court regarding child custody. The evaluation will examine all aspects of your child's life, including your home and the child's interactions, school, extracurricular activities, and therapy, if applicable. The child custody evaluation is only one part of the court's consideration for the final custody order, but it is an important part.
Representation for Unmarried and Divorced Parents
We believe that if two parents can decide on a custody and parenting plan together, it is almost always better than a judge telling them what to do. We also recognize that it is not always possible to negotiate a plan, so we are always ready to protect your rights in court when needed. As you go through the divorce process, we will refer you to a guardian ad litem or psychologist who can complete your evaluation, and make sure your parental interests are protected throughout the process.
Stepparent Adoptions
Connecticut allows both stepparents and other family members who have acted in a parental capacity to intervene in these cases and seek custody. We represent stepparents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and other relatives, helping them demonstrate to the court that they have in fact acted as a parent. If you are allowed to intervene, you will also have to undergo a child custody evaluation.
Domestic Violence and Drug or Alcohol Abuse
If your family has been involved in a domestic violence dispute or there have been allegations of drug or alcohol abuse, you may have to undergo a child custody evaluation. We can help you protect your rights, whether you would like a modification to your current plan or you seek the rights to supervised visitation.
Contact Us
Before you undergo a child custody evaluation, you want an attorney who will advocate on your behalf and preserve your interests. With offices located two blocks from the Hartford County Courthouse, we are ready to help. We are open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.
