Bossier City Child Custody Lawyer

Protecting Parental Rights & The Best Interests of Children

Child custody cases are sensitive and high-stakes family law matters. Whether you are going through a divorce, modifying an existing custody arrangement, or facing a custody dispute, having an experienced attorney by your side can make all the difference. 

At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law, we are committed to helping parents throughout Bossier City and Northwest Louisiana navigate the complexities of child custody law while prioritizing the well-being of their children. We’re backed by the insight of experienced family lawyers who understand the laws, options for resolving conflict, and strategies for producing successful outcomes. Now, we’re ready to fight for you and your children.

If you need trusted legal guidance, our Bossier City child custody attorneys can help. Call (318) 633-0186 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.

Understanding Child Custody in Louisiana

Navigating a child custody case can be overwhelming, especially when emotions run high and the stakes involve your child’s future. Louisiana courts make custody decisions based on the best interests of the child, considering numerous factors that affect their well-being. There are also various arrangements that each have a different impact on  the rights and responsibilities of parents:

• Joint Custody – The preferred arrangement in Louisiana, where both parents share decision-making responsibilities and parenting time. Courts generally favor joint custody unless there is a compelling reason not to award it.
• Sole Custody – One parent is awarded full legal and physical custody, often in cases where the other parent is deemed unfit due to factors such as abuse, neglect, or instability.
• Physical Custody – Determines where the child primarily resides. One parent may have sole physical custody, or both parents may share time in a joint custody arrangement.
• Legal Custody – Grants one or both parents the authority to make significant decisions about the child’s upbringing, including education, healthcare, and religious practices.
• Visitation Rights – If one parent is granted sole custody, the other parent may receive visitation rights to maintain a relationship with the child, unless there are concerns about the child’s safety.

How Louisiana Courts Decide Custody

In determining custody, Louisiana courts evaluate a wide range of factors to ensure the arrangement serves the best interests of the child. These considerations include:

• The emotional, physical, and developmental needs of the child
• The ability of each parent to provide a stable and nurturing home
• Each parent’s willingness to foster a relationship between the child and the other parent
• Any history of domestic violence, substance abuse, or neglect
• The child’s preference if they are of sufficient age and maturity level
• The mental and physical health of each parent
• The location and proximity of each parent’s residence

Our firm works diligently to build strong cases that demonstrate your ability to provide a safe and supportive environment for your child. We work closely with our clients to present compelling cases that advocate for their parental rights and the well-being of their children.

Modifying Child Custody Arrangements

Circumstances can change over time, and existing custody orders may no longer serve the child’s best interests. If you need to modify an existing custody arrangement, we can assist with:

• Changes in parental work schedules or living situations
• Relocation requests
• Parental alienation concerns
• Issues related to a child’s health, education, or well-being
• Cases where one parent is failing to comply with the existing custody order

To modify a custody order, the requesting parent must demonstrate a substantial change in circumstances that affects the child’s well-being. Our firm will help you gather evidence and present a strong case in court.

Why Choose Us for Your Child Custody Case?

• A Local Attorney Who Puts Families First. As a Bossier City native, Ryan Gatti has deep ties to the community and understands the unique challenges facing local families. With a firm commitment to protecting parental rights and the best interests of children, our team provides client-focused legal representation in every case.
• Compassionate Yet Aggressive Advocacy. We understand that child custody cases can be highly emotional and stressful. Our firm takes a compassionate approach, ensuring that your concerns are heard while aggressively fighting for your rights in negotiations and in court.
• Experienced Negotiation & Litigation. Whenever possible, we strive to reach amicable custody agreements through mediation and negotiation. However, when court intervention is necessary, we are fully prepared to litigate and advocate for your parental rights before a judge.

What to Expect When Working With Our Firm

1. Confidential Consultation – We begin with a private meeting to understand your case, answer your questions, and explain your legal options.
2. Case Evaluation & Strategy Development – We analyze the facts of your case and create a strategic plan tailored to your family’s needs.
3. Negotiation & Mediation – We strive to resolve disputes amicably whenever possible.
4. Court Representation – If necessary, we will present a compelling case in court to protect your parental rights and secure the best outcome for your child.
5. Post-Judgment Support – We remain available to assist with modifications, enforcement, and other family law concerns even after your case is resolved.

Bossier City Child Custody FAQ?

How Does Louisiana Determine Who Gets Custody?

Custody decisions are based on what is in the best interests of the child, considering factors such as parental stability, emotional bonds, and each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs. The court prefers joint custody unless circumstances warrant sole custody.

Can a Child Decide Which Parent to Live With?

Louisiana courts may consider the child’s preference, especially if they are mature enough to express a reasoned choice. However, the child’s preference is only one factor in the overall decision.

What Happens if One Parent Violates a Custody Order?

If a parent fails to follow a court-ordered custody arrangement, legal action can be taken to enforce compliance. This may include contempt of court charges, fines, or modifications to custody arrangements.

How Can I Modify a Custody Order?

To modify custody, you must show that there has been a substantial change in circumstances affecting the child’s well-being. Our firm can help you present a strong case for modification.

Do Grandparents Have Custody or Visitation Rights?

In certain cases, Louisiana law allows grandparents to seek visitation rights or custody if it is in the child’s best interests, particularly in situations involving parental incapacity or harm.

Speak With a Bossier City Child Custody Lawyer Today

Child custody matters are among the most critical issues in family law. At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law, we are committed to helping parents protect their rights while prioritizing the well-being of their children. 

If you have questions about a case and how we can help, call (318) 633-0186 or contact us online for a confidential consultation.