Compassionate, Skilled Attorney for Resolving Custody Issues

We understand that emotions run high when it comes to your relationship with your son or daughter and when you have disagreements about how to raise your child. Custody disputes can quickly become nasty and expensive, with long-term fallout for you, your child and your ongoing role as a co-parent.

At the Law Office & Mediation Services of Elissa C. Goldberg, LLC, we help divorcing parents create workable agreements relating to legal custody, physical custody and visitation. Whenever possible, we aim for an amicable resolution through mediation or formal negotiation. In the event your dispute is escalated to court, we are prepared to fight for you and the best interests of your child.

Types of Custody Arrangements

There are two aspects to child custody: physical custody (who the child lives with) and legal custody (who makes decisions about the child).

  • Typically, one parent will have primary physical custody and the other parent will have partial physical custody (visitation). Some parents may agree to joint custody, in which children spend approximately equal time at each household.
  • Whatever the physical custody arrangement, oftentimes the parents have joint legal custody, meaning both parents have a say in major decisions about the child's medical care, education, religious upbringing and legal matters.
  • Sole legal custody or sole physical custody is granted only in rare cases.
  • A parenting plan refers to the day-to-day details of custody and visitation: pickup and drop-off times, vacation and holiday arrangements, involvement in extracurricular activities, etc.

Experienced Attorney and Mediator

Attorney Elissa C. Goldberg has practiced as an attorney and a mediator in family law since 1995 in Bucks County, Montgomery County and the Philly metro area. She is an ardent believer in alternative dispute resolution, especially where children are involved. Collaborative law or mediation of disputes fosters a practical parenting agreement without the mind games, expense and lingering animosity of contested proceedings. These sessions can include child psychologists, custody evaluators and other professionals to keep the focus on your children and help resolve differences.

When parents cannot agree on a custody arrangement, Elissa C. Goldberg is a capable trial lawyer who can counsel you at each stage and stand up for you in court. Contested proceedings vary by county, but typically there is a conference with a special master, an evaluation and then a hearing before a judge who will rule on custody, visitation and related child support issues.

Elissa C. Goldberg also handles post-divorce custody matters, such as parent relocation, modifications or interference with visitation rights.

Contact Our Firm

We represent mothers and fathers in all facets of child custody. Contact lawyer Elissa C. Goldberg for compassionate support and effective solutions for this tense and difficult process. Call 215-345-5259 or e-mail us today to learn more.