Legal Resources & Blog | Roach Law Philadelphia

Navigating child custody can be one of the most emotionally challenging aspects of divorce or separation. If you're a parent in Philadelphia or the surrounding areas of Southeastern Pennsylvania, it’s important to understand how Pennsylvania’s child custody laws work—and how they may affect your rights and your child’s well-being.

At Roach Law, our experienced child custody lawyers in Philadelphia are here to help you understand your legal options and fight for what’s in the best interest of your family.

Types of Custody in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania law recognizes two primary forms of custody:

Legal Custody: The right to make major decisions about the child's life (education, medical care, religion, etc.)
Physical Custody: Where the child lives and how time is divided between the parents

These can be shared (joint custody) or granted primarily to one parent (sole custody), depending on the circumstances.

How Courts Determine Custody

Pennsylvania courts base custody decisions on the best interest of the child, considering a variety of factors, such as:

The child’s relationship with each parent
Each parent’s ability to provide a stable, nurturing home
Any history of abuse, neglect, or substance use
The physical and mental health of all parties
The child's preference (depending on age and maturity)
Each parent’s willingness to foster a healthy relationship with the other parent

There is no automatic preference for mothers or fathers—the law treats both parents equally under Pennsylvania custody statutes.

Common Custody Arrangements

There’s no one-size-fits-all custody schedule. Some common arrangements include:

Shared physical custody: The child spends roughly equal time with both parents
Primary and partial custody: One parent has the majority of physical custody, while the other has scheduled visitation
Supervised custody: In situations involving safety concerns, a parent may have visitation monitored by a third party

Our skilled family law attorneys in Southeastern Pennsylvania can help develop or modify custody plans that work for your family’s needs.

Modifying an Existing Custody Order

Life circumstances change—whether it’s a move, new job, or concerns about your child’s safety. Custody orders in Pennsylvania can be modified if there’s a significant change in circumstances. This may include:

A parent relocating
Changes in the child’s educational or medical needs
Evidence of parental neglect or abuse

If you're seeking a modification, it's essential to consult with a knowledgeable child custody lawyer in Philadelphia to ensure your petition is properly presented to the court.

The Importance of Legal Guidance

Child custody disputes can be deeply personal and legally complex. At Roach Law, we provide compassionate and strategic representation to help you protect your parental rights and secure a custody arrangement that supports your child’s best interests.

Whether you're negotiating a parenting agreement, preparing for a custody hearing, or seeking to modify an order, our experienced family law attorneys in Southeastern Pennsylvania are ready to stand by your side.