Child Custody

Guiding Parents Through Custody Disputes

Your relationship with your child is everything. I help parents across Northeastern Pennsylvania navigate custody agreements with compassion, clarity, and confidence.

Protecting What Matters Most

Child custody is one of the most emotionally charged aspects of any family law case. Whether you’re going through a divorce or a separation, your child’s wellbeing and future are top priorities. At The Law Offices of Robert S. Betnar, I help you understand your rights and advocate for a custody arrangement that works in your child’s best interest.

I represent parents throughout Luzerne County and all of Northeastern Pennsylvania in both initial custody actions and modifications. With a legal background grounded in trust, fairness, and real-world experience, I make sure your voice—and your child’s needs—are heard.

Types of Child Custody in Pennsylvania

Legal Custody

The right to make important decisions about your child’s life, including education, religion, and medical care.

Physical Custody

Refers to where the child lives and who provides daily care—this may be shared or given primarily to one parent.

Sole vs. Shared Custody

Courts often favor shared custody, but I’ll help present your case if sole custody is necessary for safety or stability.

Custody Modifications

Life changes, and so do custody needs. I help parents request changes to custody orders when circumstances shift.

Emergency Custody

If your child is in danger, I act quickly to seek emergency custody or protection from abuse orders through the court.

Child Custody in Pennsylvania

What You Need to Know

In Pennsylvania, child custody decisions are made based on what’s in the best interest of the child. Courts consider a long list of factors to determine which parent—or combination of parents—can best meet a child’s emotional, physical, and developmental needs.

Custody Doesn’t Always Mean 50/50

Equal time isn’t always the right answer. The court focuses on what best supports the child’s stability and wellbeing.

Courts Review Multiple Factors

This includes each parent’s involvement, history of abuse, ability to cooperate, and more.

Parenting Plans Are Encouraged

Courts appreciate detailed parenting agreements that reduce future disputes and put the child first.

Enforcement Is Possible

If the other parent violates a custody order, I can help you enforce it or seek legal remedies.

Child Custody Questions?

I’ve Got Answers

  • How does the court decide who gets custody?

    In Pennsylvania, the court makes custody decisions based on the child’s best interests—not on who makes more money or who filed first. Judges evaluate factors such as the child’s relationship with each parent, their safety, the ability of each parent to provide care, and how well the parents cooperate. My goal is to help you present a strong case that focuses on what’s best for your child. Every family’s situation is different, and I’ll help you prepare accordingly.

  • Can I get full custody of my child?

    Full custody, or sole legal and physical custody, is possible but not always common. Courts usually encourage both parents to be involved in the child’s life unless there is a reason—such as abuse, addiction, or neglect—that makes shared custody unsafe. I’ll help you evaluate your options and advocate for what’s safest and healthiest for your child in Luzerne County or any part of Northeastern PA.

  • What happens if my co-parent doesn’t follow the custody order?

    If the other parent is violating the custody agreement, you can file a motion to enforce the order. I assist clients in documenting violations and presenting them to the court so appropriate actions—like fines or changes to the custody arrangement—can be taken. Don’t wait too long to speak up; the sooner we act, the stronger your case will be. Courts take noncompliance seriously, especially when it disrupts the child’s wellbeing.

  • Can we agree on custody without going to court?

    Yes, many custody cases are resolved through negotiation or mediation, which can be less stressful and more flexible than a courtroom battle. If both parents can work together, I’ll help you draft a parenting agreement and file it with the court for approval. This still makes it legally binding, but without the need for litigation. However, I’m always ready to go to court if needed.

  • Can custody be changed later on?

    Yes, custody orders can be modified if there’s a significant change in circumstances—like relocation, changes in the child’s needs, or safety concerns. I help parents throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania file for modifications and gather evidence to support their request. You don’t have to stay locked into a plan that no longer works. I’m here to help you make changes that better support your family.