Child Custody And Visitation | Boston Child Custody And Visitation Attorney

Boston Office

Salem Office

Boston Office

55 Union Street, Suite 400 Boston, MA 02108

617-295-7500

Salem Office

15 Church St, Suite 105 Salem, MA 01970

978-607-0034

What is Child custody and visitation?

In Massachusetts, child custody encompasses two main components:

Legal Custody: The authority to make significant decisions regarding a child’s welfare, including education, healthcare, and religious upbringing.
Physical Custody: Determines with whom the child resides.

Custody can be awarded as:

Sole Custody: One parent has exclusive legal and/or physical custody.
Shared Custody: Both parents share legal and/or physical custody.

Visitation, or parenting time, refers to the schedule established for the non-custodial parent to spend time with the child. The court prioritizes the child’s best interests when determining custody and visitation arrangements.

Key Information About Child Custody and Visitation

Eligibility: Either parent can file for custody or parenting time. If the parents are unmarried, paternity must be established before filing.
Home State Rule: The child must have lived in Massachusetts for at least six months prior to filing for custody
Best Interests of the Child: Courts prioritize the child’s well-being, considering factors like the child’s relationship with each parent, the child’s adjustment to home and community, and any history of abuse.
Modifying Orders: Custody or visitation orders can be modified if there’s a significant change in circumstances affecting the child’s best interests.

Why Do You Need to Hire an Attorney When Filing a Child Custody and Visitation?

Navigating child custody and visitation matters can be complex and emotionally taxing. Hiring an experienced family law attorney ensures that:

Legal Procedures are Properly Followed: An attorney will guide you through the necessary legal steps, ensuring all documentation is correctly filed.
Your Rights are Protected: They advocate on your behalf to safeguard your parental rights and interests.
Best Interests of the Child are Prioritized: An attorney can help present a compelling case that aligns with the child’s welfare, which is the court’s primary concern.
Modifications and Enforcement: Should circumstances change, an attorney can assist in modifying existing orders or enforcing them if they’re not being followed.

Why the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson is the Best Choice to Represent You

At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we understand that your family’s future is on the line. Our approach combines a deep knowledge of Massachusetts family law with personalized, strategic representation. Here’s what sets us apart:

Local Experience: We know the judges, courts, and legal nuances unique to Massachusetts.
Focused Practice: We specialize in family law – not just dabble in it.
Aggressive Advocacy: Whether in negotiations or in the courtroom, we fight hard for your parental rights.
Compassionate Support: We walk with you through the emotional challenges of custody battles.
Results-Driven Representation: We develop customized legal strategies aimed at securing the best possible outcome for your family.

Experienced Family Law and Divorce Lawyers Ready to Protect Your Rights

Boston Office
55 Union Street, Suite 400 Boston, MA 02108
617-295-7500

Salem Office
15 Church St, Suite 105 Salem, MA 01970
978-607-0034

Office Hours
Mondays – Fridays
24/7 Support

Saturdays – Sundays
10:00am – 2:00pm

Our Legal Process and How We Work

Don’t Navigate the Complexities of Child Custody and Visitation Alone

Going through a custody battle is overwhelming – legally, emotionally, and financially. One mistake can impact your relationship with your child for years to come. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we take that responsibility seriously. Let us help you protect your parental rights and achieve the custody arrangement your child deserves. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation.

FAQs

Can grandparents seek visitation rights in Massachusetts?

Yes, but they must demonstrate that not granting visitation would significantly harm the child.

What if I need immediate custody of my child?

You can file a motion for temporary orders to obtain immediate custody or parenting time.

How does the court determine the child's best interests?

The court considers factors like the child’s relationship with each parent, adjustment to home and community, and any history of abuse.

Do I need a lawyer to file for custody?

While not mandatory, having legal representation is highly recommended to navigate the complexities of family law.

Can custody arrangements be changed after the court's decision?

Yes, if there’s a significant change in circumstances affecting the child’s best interests, you can request a modification.

Our Latest Posts Related To Family Law You Need To KNOW!

What is divorce mediation?

March 21, 2025

What is divorce mediation? The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson explains how it helps couples settle disputes and reach fair agreements outside of court.....

Matthew Peterson Law Blog Featured in Feedspot Top 80 Boston Legal Blogs

May 23, 2024

Matthew Peterson Law Blog recognized among Top 80 Boston Legal Blogs—trusted insights on criminal defense, immigration, and more in Massachusetts.....

Matthew Peterson Named Among the 2023 Massachusetts Rising Stars by “Super Lawyers”

October 13, 2023

I am thrilled to have been named a rising star by "Super Lawyers" for the year 2023. I am taking on new clients, so call....

MWP Law Named Among Most Highly Rated Businesses in Massachusetts

December 8, 2022

Our office has been named among the most highly rated businesses in Massachusetts. Find out why, and call or text us today at 617-295-7500!....

Attorney Matthew W. Peterson Selected as a 2022 Super Lawyers Rising Star

May 4, 2022

Super Lawyers Rising Star & 2022 Best Legal Award—Attorney Matthew W. Peterson is recognized for his excellence in criminal defense and litigation. Click here!....

What is the Difference Between Contested and Uncontested Divorce in Massachusetts?

June 12, 2020

What is the difference between uncontested and contested divorce in Massachusetts? The Law Office of Matthew Peterson explains your legal options.....

Protect Your Parental Rights with Expert Legal Help!

Experienced Family Law and Divorce Lawyers Ready to Protect Your Rights

Boston Office
55 Union Street, Suite 400 Boston, MA 02108
617-295-7500

Salem Office
15 Church St, Suite 105 Salem, MA 01970
978-607-0034

Office Hours
Mondays – Fridays
24/7 Support

Saturdays – Sundays
10:00am – 2:00pm

Our Latest Posts Related To Family Law You Need To KNOW!

What To Do If You’re Formally Accused of Contempt During a Divorce in Massachusetts

May 30, 2025

Accused of contempt during a divorce in Massachusetts? Learn your rights and how to defend yourself in court with expert legal guidance. Learn more here!....

Do You Need a Lawyer for Divorce in Massachusetts? Understanding Your Options

May 16, 2025

Wondering if do you need a lawyer for divorce in Massachusetts? Learn when legal help is essential and how an attorney can protect your rights.....

What Is A Grand Jury? Understanding Massachusetts Grand Jury Proceedings

March 31, 2025

Learn about what is a Grand Jury proceedings, how they work, and what to expect if you're facing indictment. Contact The Law Office of Matthew....

What Is an Indictment? Understanding the Grand Jury Process

March 27, 2025

Learn what is an indictment is and how the Grand Jury process works in Massachusetts. Get legal guidance from The Law Office of Matthew W.....

The Right Strategy to Win Your Criminal Case

Disclaimer: Although I am an attorney, I am not your attorney. Please do not rely on anything on our website as legal advice because any specific advice would depend on your situation. Any results posted on this page are not guarantees of outcomes in your case.

Our Locations

Boston Office

(Cheap parking! We validate parking at 136 Blackstone St, Boston, MA 02109 (Haymarket, Parcel 7 parking garage), $3 for three hours.)

Salem Office

Quick Links

Practice Areas

The Right Strategy to Win Your Criminal Case

Our Locations

Boston Office

(Cheap parking! We validate parking at 136 Blackstone St, Boston, MA 02108 (Haymarket, Parcel 7 parking garage), $3 for three hours.)

Salem Office

Quick Links

Practice Areas

Get the Custody Outcome You Deserve! Contact us now!

What is Child custody and visitation?

Key Information About Child Custody and Visitation

Why Do You Need to Hire an Attorney When Filing a Child Custody and Visitation?

Why the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson is the Best Choice to Represent You

Our Legal Process and How We Work

Don’t Navigate the Complexities of Child Custody and Visitation Alone

FAQs

Our Latest Posts Related To Family Law You Need To KNOW!

Protect Your Parental Rights with Expert Legal Help!

Our Latest Posts Related To Family Law You Need To KNOW!