Navigating child custody and support matters can be emotionally taxing and legally complex. As family law attorneys serving Lehigh, Carbon, and Montgomery Counties in Pennsylvania, we understand the unique local procedures and concerns that families face. At Crosson & Richetti, we provide compassionate and strategic legal guidance to help you secure a fair outcome that serves the best interests of your child.

This article outlines what parents need to know about child custody and child support laws in our region, how Pennsylvania courts evaluate these cases, and how working with a qualified attorney can make a difference.

Child Custody in Pennsylvania: Legal Basics

Pennsylvania courts recognize two main types of custody:

1. Legal Custody

Legal custody refers to the right to make major decisions for the child, including those involving education, religion, and medical care. This can be:

• Shared Legal Custody (most common): Both parents share decision-making responsibilities.
• Sole Legal Custody: One parent has exclusive decision-making authority.

2. Physical Custody

Physical custody refers to where the child lives and who is responsible for their daily care. Types include:

• Primary Physical Custody: The child lives with one parent most of the time.
• Shared Physical Custody: The child splits time between both parents.
• Partial Custody or Visitation: A parent has specific time periods with the child.

Courts do not favor one parent over the other based on gender. Instead, they focus on the “best interests of the child.”

Learn how our child custody attorneys protect your parental rights.

How Courts Decide Custody in Lehigh, Carbon, and Montgomery Counties

When determining custody arrangements, family courts evaluate 16 factors set by Pennsylvania law (23 Pa. C.S. §5323), including:

• Which parent is more likely to encourage and permit frequent contact with the other parent
• The need for stability and continuity in the child’s education, family life, and community life
• The availability of extended family
• The child’s sibling relationships
• History of abuse or domestic violence
• Each parent’s ability to provide a safe and loving environment

Local judges in Lehigh, Carbon, and Montgomery Counties are guided by these factors but also consider the nuances of each case. Our legal team knows how to present your case with compelling evidence, thorough documentation, and strategic advocacy.

Child Support in Pennsylvania: Guidelines and Local Enforcement

Pennsylvania Child Support Formula

Pennsylvania uses an income shares model to calculate child support, which considers:

• Both parents’ net monthly incomes
• The number of children
• The percentage of time each parent has physical custody
• Childcare, health insurance, and extracurricular expenses

The statewide child support guidelines are applied uniformly, but judges may deviate based on special circumstances, such as a child with special needs or a parent with unusual expenses.

Explore your options with our experienced child support lawyers.

Enforcement in Lehigh, Carbon, and Montgomery Counties

Support orders are enforced by Domestic Relations Sections (DRS) in each county. These offices help with:

• Wage garnishment
• Modifying support orders
• Locating non-paying parents
• Filing contempt actions if payments are not made

It is critical to keep accurate records and stay in communication with DRS. Our attorneys help clients navigate the DRS system and represent them in modification and enforcement hearings.

Common Custody and Support Issues in Our Region

Relocation Requests

If a custodial parent wants to move out of the area, they must obtain permission from the other parent or the court. We handle relocation petitions and objections regularly.

Modifying Existing Orders

Changes in employment, health, or living arrangements can justify modifying a custody or support order. We assist with petitions to modify and defend against unfair requests.

High-Conflict Custody Cases

When parents cannot cooperate or communicate effectively, the court may appoint a guardian ad litem or custody evaluator. We work closely with these professionals to protect our client’s interests.

Paternity and Parental Rights

Establishing legal paternity is a prerequisite to obtaining custody or support. We represent both mothers and alleged fathers in paternity and parental rights cases.

Why Choose Crosson & Richetti

As trusted family law attorneys serving Lehigh, Carbon, and Montgomery Counties, we bring:

• Local knowledge of court procedures and judicial preferences
• Strong advocacy in contested hearings and negotiations
• Responsive communication so you feel supported every step of the way
• Tailored strategies to meet your family’s needs

Whether you are just starting the custody process or seeking a support modification, we are here to help.

Take the First Step

Contact Crosson & Richetti to schedule a consultation. We’ll help you understand your rights, assess your options, and build a plan that protects your child’s best interests.

Serving families in Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, Jim Thorpe, Norristown, and beyond.