Common Questions About Child Custody and Support

Mushkatel, Gobbato, & Kile, P.L.L.C. | Child Custody
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    During the divorce process, emotions can run high. Parents frequently have questions about child custody and support, as most parents want to ensure that their children or teens are not negatively affected by the divorce and continue to have the support of both their parents. Knowledge about common issues involved in child custody and support matters in Arizona may assist in better preparing your family for what is to come.

    Does custody always go to just one parent?

    No. In fact, most Arizona courts attempt to allow parents to share visitation and legal decision-making. The courts try to encourage the involvement of both parents during and subsequent to the divorce.

    Can someone other than the parent have primary visitation rights or legal decision-making authority?

    If neither parent can raise the children adequately for medical or other reasons, a court may award visitation and decision-making rights to another party, such as a grandparent or other family member.

    What do courts consider when deciding how to arrange custody?

    Courts make decisions based upon “the best interests of the child,” which involve many factors. Common factors considered include the age and health of the child, the health and ability of each parent to provide for the child’s needs, whether the child can stay in his or her current school, and the safety each parent can provide the child.

    A Legal Team Dedicated to Your Needs

    At Mushkatel, Gobbato, & Kile, P.L.L.C., our experienced Arizona divorce attorneys can do more than answer your tough child custody and support questions. We can also represent your interests throughout the divorce process, attempting to ensure that you and your child receive the arrangements that are best for you both. For a confidential consultation, contact our office today.

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    About the Author

    Zachary Mushkatel

    Zachary Mushkatel is a founding attorney of Mushkatel, Gobbato, & Kile, P.L.L.C., who has practiced law in Arizona since 2004. He also practices before the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. A graduate of the University of Arizona and the University of Minnesota Law School, he started his career as a public defender and entered private practice in criminal defense. In 2008, Zachary co-founded a firm dedicated to civil law in addition to criminal defense, and he has since expanded his practice to personal injury, estate planning and litigation, guardianships, conservatorships, probate, corporate litigation, real estate, and various civil matters. He serves on the board and faculty of the Arizona College of Trial Advocacy, and he is a past president and current member of the West Maricopa County Bar Association.