Wisconsin parents definitely do not always agree when it comes to raising their children. It is common for families to include one parent who is more lenient with kids than the other, for instance. Such differences of opinion can lead to legal problems if a particular set of parents decides to divorce and one or the other files a child custody petition.
It is important to remember that the court will ultimately issue an order regarding custody, visitation or child support issues. While most family law judges are open to listening to (and perhaps, even request) both parents’ opinions, it is children’s best interests that the court considers its highest priority. A judge expects each parent to be willing to do what is best for a child’s mental, physical, financial and emotional well-being.
In some cases, a concerned parent might indeed have reason to request sole custody of his or her children. Such a parent would then be tasked with presenting evidence to the court to substantiate the claim that the other parent is unfit. In some circumstances, a judge may order an investigation before rendering a final decision.
Child custody problems can have a negative effect on the children involved. This is why it is always best, if possible, for parents to cooperate and compromise until a fair and satisfactory agreement can be arranged. An experienced Wisconsin family law attorney is used to dealing with complex or even contentious co-parent situations and can help negotiate or aggressively litigate a particular issue, as needed.