If you are a stepparent or a second parent seeking to adopt a child in Kansas, however you would like to explore other options, establishing a custody agreement may be beneficial. For a variety of reasons adopting a child may not be the most feasible or best option for your family, but you still wish for both parents to have legally established roles and responsibilities. Because the laws can be difficult to maneuver at times or because you feel the finality of an adoption may not be something you are ready to take on, a custody agreement can be a helpful alternative to solidifying many key aspects of your relationship with a child.
What is a Custody Agreement?
A custody agreement could easily be compared to a prenuptial agreement in that it defines many aspects during and after a relationship in the event of a separation. A custody agreement directly relates to the child and how the parents will handle their visitation and decision-making ahead of time to avoid future conflict and disagreement.
What Issues Does a Custody Agreement Address?
A custody agreement is a very effective way to document and designate various aspects when it comes to a relationship and the child involved. Many couples find it beneficial to decide issues proactively in order to ensure the best interest of the child is maintained and the agreed upon wishes of the parents remain in tact. A custody agreement solidifies issues such as where the child will live, how they will be raised, what schools they will attend, what religion they will follow, how financial support will be addressed, how disputes will be resolved and how medical and insurance needs will be provided.
Do I Need a Lawyer?
It is strongly encouraged to discuss your options regarding adoption or creating a custody agreement with an attorney. You may wish to explore alternative options or ask specific questions and an experienced attorney can help you with both. The laws regarding marriage and adoption are constantly evolving and it is important to ensure that you create a custody agreement that is legally binding, honors your wishes and is sound. A Kansas adoption and family law attorney like Tom McDowell is highly knowledgeable in the relevant laws and knows the best way to legally protect you, your family and your child.
Contact Qualified Kansas Adoption and Family Law Attorney Tom McDowell Today
Many issues can arise when it comes to considering adoption or exploring alternative options. It is important to keep your best interest and those of the child as the focus at all times, and that is what Kansas Adoption Attorney Tom McDowell does. There are many options when it comes to adopting or creating an alternative plan such as a custody agreement, and our team will help you explore options that best suit you and your needs. Call McDowell Chartered Legal Services today at (316) 633-4322 to see how we can successfully assist you with your family