In the Best Interest of Children According to Kansas Courts

Children are innocent victims in so many cases where legal assistance is needed. Children do not ask to pulled and toyed with in custody issues.  In many incidents the child or children are used by one parent or the other to gain leverage against each other. Child custody cases taken to court in the state of Kansas and well as other states across the United States of America enable a judge to make the final decision based on the child’s best interest. A large array of factors is used in determining the best interests concerning custody for each and every child.  Knowing what legally matters and allowing trained and experienced attorneys to guide you is crucial when trying to gain or keep custody of children.

Kansas courts can and may award custody of children to either parent. Neither parent bares an advantage based on gender. According to Kansas Statues 60-16-1610 there are seven specific factors that must be considered by the courts if custody is disputed. Desires of parents and children concerning custody, the interactions and relationship of children and parents, any adjustments to home, school and community that would be affected by custody, willingness of parent to work with and foster a relationship with the other parent and child, any evidence of spousal or child abuse by either parent, and whether either parent of someone with whom the parent lives is a registered offender. Once the custody has been ordered and established, Kansas courts shall use guidelines established under Kansas Statues 60-16-1610 and 38-1598, to order child support unless parents reach an agreement concerning support.

Joint or sole custody can be awarded to either parent. Kansas courts prefer the arrangement joint custody offers. With joint custody the child may reside with one parent but both parents share equal power in decisions for the child or children. Sole custody gives the parent awarded sole custody the power primary power to make decisions concerning the interest and needs of the child or children. Sole custody does not give one parent the right to alienate the other. It does mean the final decision concerning the child or children rest with the sole custodial parent.

Children should not be used as pawns in an already trying situation. Legal assistance can ensure the children are the primary concern in a child custody issue. McDowell Chartered will serve you, your children, and fight for the best interest of the children. Legal consultation will ensure the best interest of everyone is served. McDowell Chartered puts children first. Make the call to (316) 269-0746 to set up an initial consultation at a reduced rate.