Custody/Visitation/Parenting Time

Children are one of the blessings of life. Children need tender care and nurturing regardless of their parents' relationship. Most often a child views the parents as equals, and the change in the relationship as a result of the divorce process can be emotionally devastating.

Studies show that children benefit from an ongoing relationship with both parents. Our team will work with you to develop a parenting plan that will allow both the parents and the children to adjust to the parents' separation.

Parenting Plan

Most parents are decent parents, and the Court is faced with determining parenting time if the parties cannot agree. The court awards custody to either one or both parents according to the best interests of the child.  Visitation (sometimes called "timesharing") is determined by the respective schedules of the parent's and how much "time" with the non-custodial parent is in the child's continued best interest.

Jurisdictional Issues

Hawaii has adopted the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA), which addresses how custody issues should be handled when the parents are residing in different states.  In these cases, a court located in the child's home state, or that has significant connections with the child, will make custody determinations based on UCCJEA provisions. 

Safety of the Child

If there are issues of abuse, neglect, mental health issues, or substance abuse issues, immediate steps are often necessary to protect the safety of your children. In such cases it is important to have experienced attorney's who can immediately take action on your behalf to obtain necessary court orders.

Christopher D. Thomas is an experienced attorney handling family law issues like custody and visitation in Hawaii. Call our offices at (808) 261-7710 or contact us via email today to schedule an appointment with an experienced, caring, dedicated and knowledgeable attorney.