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Child Custody

Prescott Child Custody Attorneys

Helping Families Seek Child Custody Solutions Near Gilbert, Arizona

If you are a parent, your children are probably more important to you than anything or anyone else. While this instinct serves us well most of the time, it can cause problems during a divorce because two people who desperately love the same children are trying to decide which parent gets to be with the kids at which time, and neither wants to compromise.

Unfortunately, child custody disputes can turn an otherwise successful divorce into a drawn-out battle, with children caught in the middle. However, it doesn’t have to be this way. When you hire Signature Law Group, our Prescott family law attorneys help you seek custody solutions that protect your children and preserve the future co-parenting relationship with your ex-spouse around the Gilbert, Arizona, area.


Are you facing a child custody dispute near Gilbert? Call Signature Law Group, PLLC today at  (480) 376-1680 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our child custody lawyers in Prescott, Arizona.


Arizona Custody Laws

Knowing what to expect can make the process a lot easier and more successful. First, you should know that Arizona courts are required to base child custody decisions solely on the best interests of the children. Any petitions you make to the court should be focused on that standard.

Second, there are two types of custody: legal and physical. Legal custody is the power to make major decisions on behalf of your child (such as those relating to religion, education, and health care). Physical custody refers to which parent is with the child at which times. These can be awarded equally or unequally to both parents or given to one parent alone.

What Do Judges Look for in Child Custody Cases in Arizona?

Judges in throughout Arizona, often find that it is in the best interests of the children to keep both parents actively involved in their lives. Therefore, some form of shared physical custody is common (although the split isn’t always going to be equal). It is possible to petition for and be granted sole custody, but we will need to present compelling reasons to deviate from keeping both parents involved.

In Arizona, child custody cases can take at least three months but can take up to a year or longer. Most custody cases are resolved in under a year. However, high-conflict matters can continue for two years or, in rare instances, even longer. 

Finally, the basis for negotiations is the parenting plan. This document lays out a proposed custody schedule and contains many other important aspects of a custody agreement. Each parent can submit their own or negotiate one together. 

If you can negotiate a parenting agreement, you are likely to have more control over the final plan, and a judge is more likely to approve it (so long as it meets the best-interests standard).

Negotiating a Parenting Plan

If negotiation with your spouse is possible, this will likely lead to the best outcome with the least amount of conflict. We are ready to help you with all details of the parenting plan, and we will advocate for the terms that are most important to you.

If negotiation is not possible (either because your spouse refuses or there has been a history of domestic violence), our child custody attorneys will help you craft your own parenting plan and present it to the Prescott/Gilbert courthouse, along with the information about why your parenting plan is best for your children. 

How Long Does a Child Custody Case Take in Arizona?

In Arizona, child custody cases can take at least three months but can take up to a year or longer. Most custody cases are resolved in under a year. However, high-conflict matters can continue for two years or, in rare instances, even longer. 

Our lawyers will then vigorously advocate for you and your children in a litigated dispute, fighting to preserve your relationship with and access to them.

Grandparent And Third-Party Visitation Rights

Children often have close ties to grandparents and other adults in their lives, and these ties can be severed by divorce. When appropriate, we can help grandparents and other third parties petition the court to retain visitation rights to the children if visitation would best serve the children’s interests.

How Can a Custody Attorney Help You

A Gilbert/Prescott custody attorney can be instrumental in helping individuals navigate the complex legal processes associated with child custody disputes. Here are several ways in which a child custody lawyer can assist you:

  • Legal Knowledge and Expertise: Custody attorneys are well-versed in family law and have a deep understanding of the legal system. They can explain your rights, responsibilities, and legal options, ensuring that you are informed about the relevant Arizona laws and regulations pertaining to child custody.
  • Objective Advice: Emotions can run high during custody battles, and it's crucial to have an objective professional guiding you. A child custody lawyer can provide a rational and unbiased perspective, helping you make decisions based on legal considerations rather than emotional reactions.
  • Negotiation and Mediation: Many child custody cases are resolved through negotiation or mediation rather than going to trial. A skilled custody attorney can negotiate on your behalf, working towards a mutually acceptable child custody arrangement. Mediation can also be facilitated by your family law attorney to help reach an agreement outside of court in Gilbert or Prescott, AZ.
  • Legal Documents and Court Filings: Child custody cases involve extensive paperwork and documentation. A child custody lawyer can assist in preparing and filing the necessary legal documents, ensuring that everything is accurate and complies with the Arizona court's requirements.
  • Court Representation: If negotiations fail and the case goes to court in Prescott or Gilbert, Arizona, having an attorney to represent you is crucial. Your family law attorney will present your case, cross-examine witnesses, and argue on your behalf. They will be familiar with court procedures and protocols, helping to ensure a fair and just resolution.
  • Advocacy for Your Rights: Your custody lawyer is your advocate, working to protect your rights and interests. They will make sure the AZ court is aware of your concerns, priorities, and any relevant information that could influence the custody decision.
  • Modification of Orders: Circumstances can change over time, and custody orders may need to be modified to accommodate these changes. A child custody attorney can help you navigate the process of seeking modifications to custody arrangements when necessary.
  • Enforcement of Orders: If the other party fails to comply with the court-ordered custody arrangement, a child custody lawyer can assist in enforcing the order and taking appropriate legal action.
  • Child's Best Interests: Child custody lawyers are focused on the best interests of the child. They will help you understand how the Arizona court determines what is in the child's best interests and work to present your case in a way that aligns with these considerations.

Hiring a family lawyer is a proactive step to ensure that your rights as a parent are protected and that the best interests of your child are prioritized during the legal process. 

Contact Our Child Custody Lawyers Today

If you need skilled legal representation in the Phoenix metro area, contact our Gilbert child custody lawyers at Signature Law Group today. Our legal team is experienced in handling a variety of family law matters.


You Can Call Our Law Office in Gilbert at (480) 376-1680 or Reach Out Online to Get Started With Our Family Attorneys.


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