Custody & Paternity

Helping Parents Protect What Matters Most

Questions involving children can be some of the most important and emotional issues in family law. Whether you’re establishing parental rights, creating a parenting plan, or resolving a custody dispute, McEvoy & Stuntz LLP provides experienced guidance focused on the best interests of your child and your family’s future.

UNDERSTANDING CUSTODY & PATERNITY

Every Family Is Different

Custody and paternity matters involve more than legal rights; they shape important decisions about a child’s care, upbringing, and future.

Whether parents are married, unmarried, separated, or divorced, establishing clear legal rights and responsibilities helps create stability for both parents and children. Every family’s circumstances are unique, and the appropriate legal approach depends on the specific facts of each case.

How We Help

Guidance Through Every Stage

Every family’s circumstances are different, which is why there is no one-size-fits-all solution. We work closely with clients to understand their goals, explain their legal options, and develop an approach that reflects their unique situation.

McEvoy & Stuntz LLP assists clients with a wide range of custody and paternity matters, including:

Legal custody
Physical custody
Parenting plans
Parenting plans
Establishing paternity
Child support
Relocation issues
Enforcement of court orders
Modifications to existing custody arrangements

Our goal is to help families reach practical solutions whenever possible while protecting our clients’ rights when disputes require court involvement.

Understanding your rights and options early can help you make informed decisions throughout the process.

OUR APPROACH

Focused on Long-Term Stability

Custody matters often require balancing legal issues with the realities of everyday family life.

We work closely with clients to understand their goals, explain available options, and develop strategies that support both their interests and the well-being of their children. Whenever possible, we encourage practical solutions that promote stability and reduce unnecessary conflict.

When agreements cannot be reached, we provide experienced representation throughout the litigation process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common Custody Questions

Massachusetts courts consider many factors when determining custody arrangements, with the primary focus being the best interests of the child.
Legal custody involves decision-making authority regarding a child’s education, healthcare, and welfare. Physical custody refers to where the child primarily lives and the parenting schedule.

Yes. Establishing legal paternity may be necessary to determine parental rights and responsibilities, including custody, parenting time, and child support.

Yes. In some circumstances, custody or parenting plans may be modified when there has been a significant change in circumstances, and a modification is in the child’s best interests.

Not always. Some custody matters can be resolved through negotiation or mediation, while others require court involvement. The appropriate path depends on the circumstances of each case.

GET STARTED

Discuss Your Family’s Situation

Every custody and paternity matter is unique. We’re here to help you understand your rights, explore your options, and determine the best path forward.