Sensitive and High Conflict Child Custody Cases

In child custody cases, parents want nothing more than to protect their children. However, many custody cases become difficult because parents simply cannot agree and emotions run high. In times like this, it is best to consult with an attorney experienced in high conflict and sensitive child custody cases.

At David M. Gabriel & Associates, we work with parents to resolve high-conflict custody disputes and agree on a plan that is in the best interests of their children. We have extensive trial experience in highly contested custody cases and are more than ready to fight for you at trial.

Guardians ad Litem

Emotions can get in the way of acting rationally and considering how a child will be impacted by a child custody dispute. Sometimes parents seem motivated by the simple need to win. Other times, a parent who was actively involved in his or her child’s life is unable to deal with the possibility of spending less time with the child. Financial considerations may cloud a parent’s judgment.

In high-conflict custody cases, the court often appoints a trained psychologist or a guardian ad litem to act in on behalf of the child. This person conducts an investigation and makes recommendation to the court about what is in the best interests of the child. The third party psychologist or guardian ad litem will consider information such as:

• School and medical records
• Opinions of mental health professionals and medical professionals
• Interviews with neighbors, friends, and family members
• How the child interacts with each parent

This investigation considers both the factual and emotional inquiry to decide what is in the best interests of the child, and ultimately results in recommendations about who the child should live with, how much time the child should spend with the other parent, whether supervised visitation is warranted, and other issues. The court often appoints an attorney or trained psychologist as a guardian ad litem to act on behalf of the child

How We Can Help You

In a high-conflict custody case, our attorneys provide practical, objective advice and representation to parents who are dealing with an emotionally difficult divorce. If your child custody case involves any of the following, we will provide you with reasonable legal guidance:

• Child abuse
• Emotional abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Substance abuse
• Domestic violence
• Parental alienation
• Financial issues

Learn how we may help

If you are in a high-conflict custody battle, consult our law firm for rational, and effective legal guidance. With law offices in Beverly, Salem, and Burlington, Massachusetts we server the Boston North Shore region including Essex and Middlesex Counties.