In Need of a Child Custody Lawyer in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina?
At the David W. Martin Law Group, our experienced Myrtle Beach child custody attorneys know that determining where your children will live after a relationship or marriage dissolves in South Carolina is one of the most complex decisions parents must make.
Our Horry County child custody lawyers also know that sharing time with their kids is a significant source of concern and uncertainty for parents determining legal and physical custody. That is why we are here.
When parents cannot agree on child custody matters in full during negotiations with each other, their attorneys, or during mediation, there are multiple legal thresholds both parents must reach to build their cases for success. We help our clients understand the legal aspects of their cases clearly so they can align their expectations with our South Carolina family laws to pursue the best outcome for their kids.
How is Child Custody Determined in South Carolina?
Child custody is determined based on the best interests of the child. The “best interests of the child” standard is the guiding principle used by the court to make custody determinations. It involves assessing various factors, including the child’s physical and emotional needs and each parent’s ability to provide a stable home.
Factors considered in making child custody decisions include, but are not limited to:
- The child’s age, physical and emotional health, and specific needs.
- Each parent’s ability to provide a stable, loving, and nurturing environment.
- The child’s existing and proposed living arrangements.
- Each parent’s moral fitness.
- The child’s relationship with each parent, including any history of abuse or neglect.
- The child’s adjustment to school, community, and home.
- Each parent’s ability and willingness to facilitate a relationship between the child and the other parent.
- Each parent’s work schedule and availability to care for the child.
- Any other factors deemed relevant by the court.
Sometimes, parents may reach a custody agreement through mediation or negotiation. The court typically encourages parents to work together to develop a parenting plan in the child’s best interests. A parenting plan is a document that outlines the terms of child custody and visitation. It typically includes the custody schedule, decision-making authority, and other essential arrangements.
If parents cannot agree, a court hearing will be scheduled to determine child custody. Both parents will present evidence and arguments during the hearing, and the court will consider the abovementioned factors. Our dedicated Myrtle Beach child custody lawyers can help prepare your case for both mediation and litigation — depending on how far apart you and the other parent are on the agreement — and build a robust case that reflects your child’s needs, so together we are pursuing the best outcome for your family.
Do Children Have a Say in Custody Decisions in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, the court may consider the child’s preference, especially if they are mature enough to express their wishes. However, the child’s choice is not determinative, and the court will prioritize the child’s best interests.
What are the Types of Child Custody in South Carolina?
South Carolina recognizes different types of custody arrangements, including:
- Sole Custody: One parent has primary physical and legal custody, and the other parent typically has visitation rights.
- Joint Custody: Both parents share physical and legal custody, meaning the child lives with each parent for a significant portion of the time, and both parents have decision-making authority.
- Split Custody: Split custody may be awarded in cases with multiple children, where each parent has primary custody of one or more children.
All South Carolina child custody cases are unique, so our Myrtle Beach attorneys customize each case to reflect our client’s needs. Your family dynamics and the safety and well-being of your children is your priority, which also makes it ours. Contact our child custody lawyers in Myrtle Beach today to learn how we can help you pursue the best outcome for your and your kids’ futures.
Can Child Custody Orders Be Modified in South Carolina?
Child custody orders can be modified in South Carolina if a substantial change in circumstances justifies a modification. This may include a parent’s relocation, changes in the child’s needs, or a parent’s inability to provide proper care. If you believe your child custody agreement or order needs to be modified, contact our skilled Myrtle Beach family lawyers today for help.
Can I Move Out of State with My Child in South Carolina?
If you have a custody order, you need court approval to move out of state with your child. The court will consider whether the move is in the child’s best interests. No matter which side of the action you are on — whether you are the parent who wants to move with your kids — or the one opposing the move, we can help you identify each personal, professional, and legal aspect that will help build your case for success.
We can also help for:
- Alimony
- Fathers Rights
- Divorce
- Grandparents Rights
- Child Support
- Emergency Custody
- Uncontested Divorce
- Property Division
- Visitation Modification
Contact Our Dedicated Child Custody Attorneys in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Today
Our Myrtle Beach child custody lawyers know these cases can be legally complex and emotionally challenging. Our experienced family law attorney in South Carolina can help you navigate these matters effectively and protect your child’s best interests from the start of your case. Call 854-854-5623 or contact us online to learn more about your legal rights and options to pursue the best outcome for your unique case by partnering with our dedicated Myrtle Beach child custody attorneys at the David W. Martin Law Group today.
