Kearney Child Custody Lawyer

Child custody disputes are some of the most sensitive and emotionally charged issues in family law. Whether you’re facing a divorce, seeking custody for the first time, or dealing with modifications to an existing order, the outcome will directly impact your relationship with your child. At Conway, Pauley & Johnson P.C., our Kearney child custody lawyers are committed to protecting your rights and prioritizing your child’s well-being throughout every step of the legal process.

Family law cases involving children require thoughtful strategy, compassion, and a deep understanding of Nebraska custody statutes. With our experience handling child custody, child support, visitation, and related family law matters, we’re prepared to guide you toward a solution that works for your family.

Child Custody in Nebraska: What You Need to Know

Child custody in Nebraska is determined based on what the court considers to be in the best interests of the child. Custody includes both legal custody, the authority to make major decisions for the child, and physical custody, which relates to where the child resides.

When parents cannot agree on a custody arrangement, the court considers various factors, including:

• The relationship between the child and each parent
  
• The capacity of each parent to provide a safe, stable home
  
• Each parent’s involvement in the child’s life
  
• The child’s adjustment to school and community
  
• Any history of domestic violence or abuse
  

Each custody case is unique, and courts evaluate the specific circumstances of the family. Whether you are seeking sole custody, joint custody, or visitation rights, our attorneys provide clear, strategic counsel to help you present your case effectively.

The Role of a Child Custody Lawyer

An experienced child custody lawyer serves as your advocate, guiding you through every phase of the legal process. Our team helps clients:

• Understand Nebraska child custody laws
  
• Draft and negotiate parenting plans
  
• Represent their interests in court hearings
  
• Address relocation or modification requests
  
• Ensure that the child’s well-being remains the central focus
  

We also assist in enforcing custody orders when the other parent fails to comply with court-mandated visitation or decision-making responsibilities.

Child Support: Financial Stability for Your Child

In addition to custody, parents must resolve issues related to child support. Nebraska uses an income-sharing model to calculate support, taking into account the incomes of both parents, childcare costs, healthcare, and other financial needs of the child.

We work closely with clients to ensure that child support calculations are accurate and fair, whether you’re receiving or paying support. We also help with enforcement actions when the other parent does not fulfill their obligations.

Child support matters may be addressed as part of divorce proceedings or through separate court actions. Either way, our attorneys make sure your child’s financial interests are protected.

Visitation and Parenting Time

When one parent is granted primary physical custody, the other parent is usually entitled to reasonable visitation or parenting time, unless there are concerns about the child’s safety. Parenting plans can include detailed visitation schedules to minimize conflict and clarify expectations.

We help clients create practical, detailed parenting plans that consider:

• School and extracurricular schedules
  
• Holidays and vacations
  
• Transportation responsibilities
  
• Decision-making protocols
  

If circumstances change, our attorneys can petition the court for modifications to visitation or custody arrangements that reflect your family’s evolving needs.

Divorce and Child Custody in Nebraska

Child custody is often a central issue in divorce. In Nebraska, custody is not automatically awarded to one parent; the court examines each parent’s ability to provide care and support in alignment with the child’s best interests.

When custody is contested during divorce, both parties may be required to submit parenting plans, attend mediation, and participate in custody evaluations. We help clients build compelling cases backed by evidence of their parenting history, home environment, and commitment to the child’s well-being.

Divorce cases involving custody also address child support, alimony, and division of parenting responsibilities. Our firm provides full-service representation to ensure all aspects of the divorce are handled with professionalism and care.

Modifying Custody and Support Orders

Life circumstances change. If you or the other parent experiences a substantial change—such as a new job, relocation, or changes in the child’s needs—you may request a modification to an existing custody or child support order.

Courts will consider modifications when:

• One parent relocates a significant distance
  
• The child’s health or schooling needs change
  
• A parent becomes unable or unwilling to meet their responsibilities
  
• Both parties consent to new terms
  

We help parents file modification requests, present evidence at court hearings, and ensure changes reflect the best interests of the child.

Let Conway, Pauley & Johnson P.C. Help You Seek Justice

Custody battles can affect your child’s development, emotional stability, and future opportunities. Having a skilled, compassionate legal advocate makes a difference. At Conway, Pauley & Johnson P.C., our family law attorneys understand the high stakes and approach each case with the dedication it deserves.

We listen carefully, build strong legal strategies, and fight for favorable outcomes that protect your rights and support your child’s long-term well-being. Whether you’re working through a divorce, enforcing a court order, or negotiating parenting time, we are here to help.

Learn more about Kearney Child Custody Lawyer. Call Conway, Pauley & Johnson P.C. at (402) 462-5187 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the court determine child custody in Nebraska?

Nebraska courts determine custody based on the best interests of the child. This includes evaluating the child’s relationship with each parent, each parent’s living situation, and any history of abuse or neglect.

Can child custody arrangements be changed after divorce?

Yes. If there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as relocation or changes in a parent’s ability to care for the child, custody or visitation orders may be modified through the court.

What is the difference between legal and physical custody?

Legal custody refers to the right to make important decisions for the child, such as education and healthcare. Physical custody relates to where the child primarily resides.

How is child support calculated in Nebraska?

Child support is calculated using a formula that includes both parents’ incomes, the number of children, and expenses such as healthcare and childcare. The court ensures the child’s financial needs are met fairly.

What happens if the other parent doesn’t follow the custody agreement?

If the other parent violates the custody or visitation order, you can seek enforcement through the court. This may result in changes to the agreement or other legal consequences.