Child Custody Lawyers in Flagstaff
Child custody cases can be challenging and emotional for families. Navigating this difficult terrain can be hard without help and support, which is why it is important to work with a child custody lawyer.
Our Flagstaff child custody attorneys at The Zickerman Law Office, PLLC are dedicated to helping guide our clients with empathy and professionalism. We believe that every client deserves personalized attention and support throughout the entire process. With our legal team by your side, you can rest assured that you'll have someone to advocate for you.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can help you navigate your child custody case with confidence. Call (928) 323-0910.
Is Arizona a “Mother State”?
Arizona is not a "Mother's state.” Arizona Statute Section 403 (A) states that “the court shall determine legal decision-making and parenting time, either originally or on petition for modification, in accordance with the best interests of the child.”
This legal provision is in place to ensure that custody orders are made based on the best interests of the child, without any bias towards either parent. As a result, Arizona parents can approach child custody cases knowing that they will be evaluated based on factors such as their parenting abilities, relationship with the child, and their ability to provide a stable and safe home environment, rather than their gender.
Additionally, in Arizona, parents have the decision to have sole or joint custody of their child, as the courts strive to give the child exposure to both parents whenever safe and in the child’s best interest. Ultimately, this allows for fair and just custody orders to be made that prioritize the well-being of the child above all else.
How Is Child Custody Determined in Arizona?
When it comes to making the decision on who gains custody of the child, the court takes into consideration several factors to determine what is in the best interest of the child.
Factors the court will consider include:
- Past and present relationship between parent and child.
- The relationship between the child, their siblings, and other significant persons who may affect the child’s best interest.
- The child’s ability to adjust to home, school, and community.
- The mental and physical health of the parents and child.
- Which parent is more likely to allow the child frequent and meaningful continual contact with the other parent.
- If one parent intentionally misleads the court to cause any unnecessary delay.
- History of domestic violence or child abuse.
Does the Child Have a Say in Custody in Arizona?
In the state of Arizona, children do not decide which parent can have custody. This is done to protect the child and eliminate the possibility of them being bribed or threatened by one parent. In addition, this helps the child avoid pressure that could fall upon them during custody battles. However, the court can take into consideration the child’s wishes.
The judge may ask for the child’s opinion through the following methods:
- Ordering a therapist to conduct a custody evaluation and write a report including what the child has to say.
- Speaking directly to the child in private chambers where the child would not be pressured by their parents.
- Appointing a lawyer to represent the child only. This appointed lawyer would interview the child and advocate for them.
Ultimately, the court will make their decision based on what is in the best interests of the child. This is why having an attorney by your side to advocate for you and present evidence of your ability to care for your child is crucial. Not only will they be able to guide you through the legal process, but they will also help you present a strong case.
What Is a Parenting Plan?
When it comes to child custody in Arizona, a co-parenting model is applied to ensure that both parents play an active role in their child's life. This approach requires parents seeking joint custody to submit a detailed parenting plan to the court.
A parenting planwill include at least the following:
- “Designation of the legal decision-making as joint or sole.”
- Each parent’s rights and responsibilities for personal care and decision making for the child.
- A schedule of parenting time for the child.
- A detailed procedure for exchanges of the child.
- A procedure for how proposed changes and alleged breaches may be resolved.
- A procedure for the periodic review of the parenting plan.
- A procedure for communicating with each other about the child.
- A statement that each party has read and will abide by.
This plan outlines clearly defined custody arrangements, which both parents must adhere to, giving the child a sense of predictability. Having a written plan enforced by the court means that parents can rest assured that there is consistency and reliability in their custody arrangement.
Contact Our Flagstaff Child Custody Lawyers
At The Zickerman Law Office, PLLC, we understand the sensitive nature of child custody cases and how they can be emotionally draining for our clients. That's why our team of experienced and passionate advocates is committed to helping families navigate through the legal process with empathy.
When you choose to work with us, you can trust that we will fight for your rights and strive to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family. Let our Flagstaff child custody attorneys provide you with the support and guidance you deserve during this challenging time.
Call us at (928) 323-0910 or contact us today to learn more.
Client Testimonials
Clients Trust The Zickerman Law Office, PLLC
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“Highly Recommend”
- Former ClientAfter having been involved in a severe car crash, my sons encouraged me to contact Zickerman Law. The insurance and legal aspects of the crash seemed overwhelming on top of working to recover from serious injuries. From the first phone call with Adam and Gib, they made me feel comfortable and reassured. Having their help to deal with the legal and insurance aspects of this ordeal was immeasurable. I am so very grateful for their efforts, work, and results. Adam and Gib have my most sincere appreciation, as well as my highest recommendation for their services.
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“MR ZICKERMAN DEFENDED MY DAUGHTER”
MR. ZICKERMAN DEFENDED MY DAUGHTER. HAVING GONE THROUGH SEVERAL ATTORNEYS IN THE PAST; SHE WAS SO FORTUNATE TO HAVE COME ACROSS MR. ZICKERMAN. FOR THE FIRST TIME SHE DIDN'T FEEL LIKE A BARGAINING CHIP ON A POKER TABLE. WALKING INTO A COURTROOM KNOWING THAT YOUR ATTORNEY IS GOING TO DEFEND YOU, LISTEN TO YOU, AND BELIEVE YOU MAKES A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE. MY DAUGHTER WAS LOOKING AT A MIN OF 15 YEARS, FOR A CRIME SHE DID NOT COMMIT. MOST ATTORNEYS WOULD HAVE CONVINCED HER TO SIGN A PLEA FOR THAT AMOUNT OF TIME. MR ZICKERMAN BELIEVED MY DAUGHTER AND FOUGHT FOR HER UNTIL THE VERY END. iN THE END ALL THE CHARGES WERE DISMISSED. i CAN NOT EXPRESS HOW GRATEFUL OUR FAMILY IS. MR ZICKERMAN IS A MAN OF MORALS AND INTEGRITY AND IF YOU ASK ME. THERE IS NOT A BETTER ATTORNEY IN THIS STATE. HE WILL FIGHT FOR EVERY RIGHT YOU HAVE.- h BALDA -
“It was a long (three years) and hard battle. However Gib and his staff never gave up.”
“All my medical expenses, court fees, expert witness charges, legal fees, and more were recovered with a little left over to cover for pain and suffering. Thank you Gib!”- Jay W. -
“Adam impressed me beyond measure. Anyone would be fortunate to have Mr. Zickerman as their attorney.”
“I have worked with Adam for two years on a variety of matters, but mostly criminal work. Adam impressed me beyond measure. First, his work ethic is incomparable. I have never met anyone who works as hard on his cases to deliver justice as he does. Mr. Zick”- Matthew -
“I would recommend them to my family and friends”
My experience with Adam and the Zickerman Law office has always been professional and pleasant. I would recommend them to my family and friends if there were ever a time a good lawyer was needed.- Jessica A. -
“Courteous, professional, and client focused”
Mr. Zickerman is without exception one of the finest family law practitioners in the state. I had occasion to be in need of his services regarding a rather animosity-driven divorce and found him to be a very knowledgeable practitioner of this area of law. Not only that, but his staff was always courteous, professional, and, as with Mr. Zickerman, client focused. If I'm fortunate enough to be the future Mrs. Dagiel, I will be obtaining his services again for my pre-nuptial agreement. He practices far more than just criminal law and definitely excels at family law.- Vince D. -
“He was very timely and attentive to our needs.”
“Recently we had Mr. Zickerman draw up a document for us. He was very timely and attentive to our needs. The price was extremely reasonable as well! I would highly recommend this gentleman to anyone in need of an attorney.”- Misty -
“He’s not just the right choice - he’s the only choice.”
“I had multiple different cases over the last year and he not only helped me with these cases but he was available for questions and concerns every single time I could think of one. He’s not just professional, but he’s personable too.”- Alexandria F.
Meet Our Team
Dedicated to Protecting Clients' Rights & Freedoms
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Adam Zickerman Founding AttorneyOur founding attorney is a former prosecutor, so he has the knowledge of the other side and understands how the prosecution will approach your case. -
Adam J. Wintz Associate Attorney
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Nina Anderson In-House AccountantNina is the office bookkeeper, and the accounts receivable division.
