Custody
Child Custody & Custody Modification Legal Services | Strong Family Law, PLLC
Protecting Your Parental Rights
and Your Child’s Best Interests
At Strong Family Law, PLLC, we understand that child custody disputes can be emotionally challenging and legally complex. Whether you are seeking to establish a custody arrangement, modify an existing order, or protect your parental rights, our legal team provides compassionate and aggressive representation to ensure your child’s best interests are met.
Understanding Child Custody in Idaho
Idaho courts prioritize the best interests of the child when determining custody arrangements. Custody decisions are based on multiple factors, including the child’s relationship with each parent, each parent’s ability to provide a stable home environment, and any history of domestic violence or substance abuse.
There are two main types of child custody in Idaho:
Legal Custody
Legal custody refers to a parent’s right to make important decisions about the child’s upbringing, including matters related to education, healthcare, and religion, including religious education. Courts may award:
Joint Legal Custody
Both parents share decision-making responsibilities and must consult each other.
Sole Legal Custody
One parent has the exclusive right to make major decisions for the child.
Physical Custody
Physical custody determines where the child will live. Legal custody is most often a separate matter, though every case is unique. Arrangements may include:
Joint Physical Custody
The child spends significant time with both parents, determined by a parenting plan.
Sole Physical Custody
The child resides with one parent; other parent may have limited visitation rights.
Factors Considered in Custody Cases:
The wishes of the child’s parents as to his or her custody;
The wishes of the child as to his or her custodian;
The interaction and interrelationship of the child with his or her parent or parents, and his or her siblings;
The child’s adjustment to his or her home, school, and community;
The character and circumstances of all individuals involved;
- The need to promote continuity and stability in the life of he child; and
- Domestic violence as defined by Idaho law (see Idaho Code section 39-6303)
Child Custody Modifications in Idaho
Custody arrangements may need to change as life circumstances evolve.
If an existing custody order no longer serves your child’s best interests, you may petition the court for a custody modification.
When Can Custody Be Modified?
A court may approve a modification if there has been a substantial change in circumstances, such as:
A parent relocating out of state or a significant distance away.
A significant change in a parent’s work schedule that affects parenting time.
Concerns about child neglect, abuse, or domestic violence.
A parent’s failure to comply with the existing custody agreement.
Emergency Custody Modifications
If your child is in immediate danger due to abuse, neglect, or exposure to harmful environments, you may request an emergency custody modification. Our attorneys can help you file for emergency relief to protect your child as quickly as possible.
How to File for Custody Modification
To request a custody modification, you must:
- File a Petition with the Court – Submit a formal request outlining the substantial changes justifying the modification.
- Provide Supporting Evidence – Documentation, witness statements, or expert testimony proving that the modification is necessary.
- Attend a Court Hearing – Present your case before a judge, who will determine if the change is in the child’s best interest.
Why Choose Strong Family Law for Your Custody Case?
Navigating child custody issues requires strong legal representation.
Our firm provides:
- Personalized legal strategies tailored to your unique situation.
- Zealous advocacy to protect your parental rights.
- Compassionate legal support to help minimize stress on you and your child.
- Experience in high-conflict custody cases involving relocation and domestic violence.
- Extensive success with settling cases, allowing you more say in the outcome.
If you are navigating a custody dispute, Strong Family Law is here to help you develop a parenting plan that ensures your child’s well-being and protects your parental rights. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Child Custody in Idaho
At Strong Family Law, we are committed to securing the best possible custody arrangements for parents and children. Call (208) 444-4482 today to request your confidential consultation and protect your parental rights.