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Imagine you’re building a bridge over a river. Each decision—what materials to use, how to design the supports, where to place the beams—affects whether the bridge stands strong or falls apart. Child custody and child support are like building a bridge for your family after a separation or divorce. Every choice shapes your child’s future, stability, and happiness.
Child custody is about more than just where a child lives. It covers who makes important decisions, how time is shared, and how each parent supports the child’s growth. In Arizona, custody is split into two main parts: legal decision-making and parenting time.
Legal decision-making refers to the right to make significant choices for your child, such as where they attend school, the medical care they receive, and the religion they follow. Arizona law encourages both parents to share this responsibility, unless there’s a reason not to (such as abuse or neglect).
Parenting time (sometimes referred to as “physical custody”) is the schedule that determines when your child spends time with each parent. Courts in Mesa often prefer arrangements that let children have meaningful contact with both parents, unless it would harm the child’s well-being.
When determining custody, Arizona courts prioritize the child’s best interests. They look at things like:
According to the Arizona Judicial Branch, more than 85% of custody cases in Maricopa County (which includes Mesa) result in some form of joint legal decision-making.
Child support is money paid by one parent to help cover the costs of raising a child. In Arizona, both parents are expected to contribute, but the amount each pays depends on several factors.
Arizona uses a formula to determine child support. This formula considers:
The goal is to make sure children have the resources they need, no matter where they live. In 2023, the average child support order in Arizona was about $500 per month per child, but amounts vary widely.
Life changes—jobs are lost, incomes shift, and children’s needs change. Arizona law allows either parent to ask for a change in child support if there’s a significant change in circumstances.
Navigating custody and support can feel overwhelming, but understanding the process can help.
The process begins when one parent files a petition with the court, asking for custody, parenting time, and child support orders.
The other parent must be officially notified of the case and given a chance to respond.
While the case is pending, the court can issue temporary orders to set rules for custody, parenting time, and support.
Both parents must share financial information and details about their living situations. This helps the court make fair decisions.
Most cases settle through mediation or negotiation, where parents work together to create a plan that works for everyone.
If parents can’t agree, a judge will hold a hearing and make decisions based on Arizona law and the evidence presented.
The court issues final orders for custody, parenting time, and child support. These orders are legally binding and enforceable.
If a parent wants to move far away with the child, Arizona law requires notice and, often, court approval. The court will consider how the move affects the child’s relationship with both parents.
If a parent doesn’t follow custody or support orders, the other parent can ask the court for help. This might include wage garnishment, fines, or changes to the parenting plan.
Either parent can ask to change custody or support orders if circumstances change significantly. The court will always focus on what’s best for the child.
Think of parenting after divorce like co-piloting a plane. Both parents need to communicate, share responsibilities, and keep the plane (your child’s life) flying smoothly. If one pilot tries to take over or stops working with the other, the journey gets bumpy. The best outcomes happen when both parents work as a team, even if they’re not together.
Mesa offers a range of resources for families facing custody and support issues. The Maricopa County Superior Court provides self-help centers, mediation services, and educational programs. Community Legal Services offers free or low-cost legal aid for those who qualify. Many local law firms, including Moon Law Firm, offer consultations and flexible payment plans.
Child custody and child support decisions shape your child’s future. With the right information and support, you can protect your child’s well-being and build a stable foundation for the years ahead. If you’re facing custody or support issues in Mesa, reach out to Moon Law Firm for compassionate, knowledgeable guidance every step of the way.
Moon Law Firm
1423 S Higley Rd #112, Mesa, AZ 85206
If you need help with child custody or child support in Mesa, contact us for expert support that puts your family first.
