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Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law
Serving Northwest Louisiana for Over 20 Years 318-633-0186
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Child Custody

Shreveport Child Custody Attorneys

Comprehensive Child Custody Support in Bossier Parish

When parents divorce or separate, child custody is one of the most important issues they must resolve. If you are facing a custody dispute of any kind, you want a trustworthy lawyer to fight for what is right for you and your family. At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney at Law, our Shreveport child custody attorneys have defended the best interests of Louisiana children for decades. To discuss your case with a member of our team, reach out to schedule a consultation. As a community-oriented firm, we are always eager to help families in Shreveport, Bossier City, and other areas across Bossier Parish and Northwest Louisiana.

Get in touch with our child custody lawyer in Shreveport today via our online contact form or call (318) 633-0186 for a personalized consultation.

Understanding Child Custody in Louisiana

Defining Child Custody: Legal Rights and Responsibilities

Child custody commonly refers to the legal and practical relationship between a parent or guardian and a child. It involves the rights and responsibilities related to making decisions about the child's upbringing, including education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. Additionally, it encompasses the physical custody arrangement, determining where the child will live, and the visitation schedule for the noncustodial parent.

Child Custody Decisions: Louisiana's Approach

Louisiana law encourages parents to collaborate to create child custody arrangements. The state assumes parents know what is best for their children and themselves. Should co-parents be unable to agree on an arrangement, the state’s courts will likely require mediation. This process features a neutral third party who facilitates conversation and helps parents develop suitable arrangements together. If mediation is unsuccessful, courts will determine custody based on the child’s best interests.

To assess these interests, they consider various factors, such as:

  • The existing parent-child relationships
  • The capacity of parents to love, care for, and guide their child
  • The capacity of parents to financially provide for their child
  • Whether the child has lived with one parent for an extended period
  • The stability of either parent’s household and living situations
  • The physical health and moral fitness of parents
  • The communities in which the child would live and what schools they might attend
  • Any history of domestic abuse
  • The child’s preferences, assuming they are mature enough to make a fair judgment

Types of Custody Arrangements in Shreveport

Legal and Physical Custody: Understanding the Differences

There are two general types of child custody in Louisiana:

  • Legal custody grants parents the right to make important decisions on behalf of their child. These decisions might involve the child’s education, medical care, and religious upbringing.
  • Physical custody refers to where the child will live.

Parents frequently share legal and physical custody, dividing decision-making responsibilities and splitting time with their children. On certain occasions, parents can secure sole legal or physical custody. Courts must determine that one parent is unfit to make decisions for their child or spend time with them to award sole custody.

How Our Shreveport Attorneys Can Assist with Your Custody Case

Personalized Legal Support for Child Custody Disputes

At Ryan E Gatti Attorney At Law, we are dedicated to delivering personalized and effective legal representation to protect your parental rights and the well-being of your child. Our team can help you by:

  • Legal Expertise: We are well-versed in family law and child custody matters. We stay up-to-date on the latest legal developments and precedents to ensure that our clients obtain effective legal representation.
  • Strategic Advocacy: Child custody cases often involve a variety of elements, which include the child's best interests, each parent's ability to deliver a stable environment, and any history of domestic violence or substance abuse. We meticulously assess each case, developing a strategic plan to present the strongest possible case in court.
  • Mediation Services: While litigation is sometimes unavoidable, we recognize that not every case needs to go to court. We are adept at negotiation and mediation, working towards amicable resolutions that prioritize the child's well-being and maintain healthy parent-child relationships.
  • Compassionate Advocacy: Child custody disputes can be emotionally charged, and we understand the sensitive nature of these cases. We approach each case with compassion, recognizing the emotional impact it can have on families. We are dedicated to providing supportive and empathetic legal representation while fiercely advocating for your rights.

Ready to Advocate for Your Family's Future

It is likely no surprise that child custody matters are highly contentious and emotional. If you are involved in a dispute, you must participate in negotiations and make decisions that have serious implications for your family’s future. This is why you want an experienced legal professional at your side. Our Shreveport child custody attorneys have counseled and advocated for numerous parents and children in custody battles. They recognize the gravity of these matters and understand what you are going through. You can trust our team to look out for you and work tirelessly to see you get the time you deserve with your family.

For dedicated custody representation, contact our Shreveport child custody attorneys. Call (318) 633-0186 or send a message online to schedule your consultation today.

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    - Allie Keith
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  • “Knowledgeable, personable, sincere.”
    Ryan E Gatti & team has been amazing to work with. Custody battles can be stressful, but the team made it easier emotionally, mentally, and physically. They kept my child's best interests a priority. Knowledgeable, personable, and truly compassionate. Highly recommend.
    - Heather G.
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    Ryan E Gatti has been excellent to work with for years. Their broad legal knowledge and valuable advice stand out. The team is always very responsive and passionate about helping those in need. Recommended for anyone seeking legal advice.
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  • “They treat you like family.”
    The best! There's no other firm in the Shreveport-Bossier City area you should think about for your family court or custody case. They worked hard to win my case, even during the pandemic. They treat you like family, and you truly feel in the best hands. Thank you and God bless.
    - Jason A.
  • “Treats clients like family.”
    Ryan E. Gatti is a class act, treating clients like family. The team provides high professionalism, exceeding expectations. They are responsive, answer questions, and provide transparency in your case. Highly recommended.
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