Appleton Child Custody Attorney: Protecting Your Rights And Your Children’s Welfare

Child custody decisions should always center on the children’s physical and emotional well-being. However, not all parents will agree on what they think is the most suitable living arrangement for their children. When such disputes arise, having experienced legal counsel on your side is critical to advocating for your beliefs, your parental rights and your children’s best interests.

My name is attorney Stephen J. Fozard. As an Appleton child custody lawyer, I have dedicated my career to helping mothers, fathers, grandparents and other guardians overcome their complex custody dispute cases. At my law firm, Fozard Law Office LLC, I offer compassionate service and skilled guidance as I represent you in all aspects of child custody. Whether it be with drafting a well-structured parenting plan, modifying a custody order or filing for visitation rights in Wisconsin, I will walk you through each step of the process to ensure that you can protect your rights and your children’s welfare.

Understanding Physical vs. Legal Custody

There are two main types of custody in Wisconsin: physical and legal. To help provide you with an overview of what each type means, here is a comparison table:

Physical Custody	Legal Custody
Refers to which parent the children will live with the majority of the time	Refers to the decision-making authority of each or both parents
In sole physical custody, the children will live with only one parent	In sole legal custody, only one parent has the right to make decisions about their children’s upbringing
In joint physical custody, the children will live with both of their parents, with the custodial parent having the “home base” and the noncustodial parent following a parenting time schedule	In joint legal custody, both parents have the right to make decisions about their children’s upbringing

To ensure your children can grow in a stable living arrangement post-separation or divorce, you need to consult with a local child custody lawyer as soon as possible. With my skills and experience in this matter, I can assess your family’s situation and inform you of all your available options.

What Happens In A Disputed Custody Case?

As often as possible, I try to facilitate communications between parents so you can reach a mutually satisfactory arrangement in negotiations or mediation. However, finding such an arrangement is not always possible without heading to court. In these situations:

• The judge will appoint the children an attorney to advocate on their behalf, without the input of the parents.
• Then, a psychologist or another clinician will evaluate the child and assess the situation.
• Finally, the judge will hear the case. Each side presents their evidence, and the judge will issue a final parenting plan.

Be aware, though, that by proceeding to trial, both parents lose control over the outcome. This is why I do everything possible to help spouses reach a decision privately. If we do go to court, I will create a strong case and advocate for you fiercely.

Reach Out To A Dedicated Child Custody Lawyer Today

I understand how mentally and emotionally draining a custody dispute can feel. You can depend on me not just as your attorney but as your ally as well. To discuss your Appleton family law matter or custody situation in private, you may schedule a consultation with me through email or by calling my office at 920-880-1180.