Child Support & Custody

Child Support & Custody Attorneys

Protecting your children's best interests and your parental rights — with steady, knowledgeable advocacy.

When children are involved in a family law matter, the stakes couldn't be higher. At Kershaw & Baumgardner, we approach every custody and child support case with the understanding that these decisions shape your children's lives — and yours. We fight for arrangements that truly serve your family.

Child Custody in Kentucky

Kentucky law recognizes two types of custody: legal custody (the right to make major decisions about your child's education, healthcare, and religion) and physical custody (where the child lives). Both can be awarded jointly or solely, depending on the circumstances.

The court's primary consideration is always the best interests of the child. Factors include each parent's relationship with the child, the child's adjustment to home and school, the mental and physical health of all parties, and the child's own wishes (depending on age and maturity).

Parenting Plans

All Kentucky custody cases require a parenting plan — a detailed document outlining custody arrangements, visitation schedules, holiday and vacation time, decision-making procedures, and communication protocols. A well-drafted parenting plan prevents future disputes and provides stability for your children.

We help you develop a parenting plan that reflects your family's unique needs while meeting the legal requirements — and we negotiate hard to ensure it protects your parental role.

Child Support in Kentucky

Kentucky uses an income shares model to calculate child support, taking into account both parents' incomes, the number of children, healthcare costs, and childcare expenses. While the guidelines provide a formula, there are circumstances where deviations are appropriate — and we know how to argue for them.

We handle child support in the context of divorce, paternity cases, and standalone support actions. We also assist with modifications when income or circumstances change, and enforcement when the other parent fails to pay.

Modifying Custody or Support Orders

Life changes. A job loss, relocation, remarriage, or change in a child's needs can all be grounds for modifying an existing custody or support order. We help you navigate the modification process — whether you're seeking a change or defending against one.