Child Custody & Parenting Plans
Legal and physical custody, parenting plans, relocation, and modifications under Connecticut law.
Legal and physical custody, parenting plans, relocation, and modifications under Connecticut law. Attorney Tara J. Galbo has more than 25 years representing Connecticut clients in child custody & parenting plans matters from the firm's Milford office at 88 High Street.
Custody decisions in Connecticut are guided by the best interest of the child. Courts examine each family's specific circumstances, the child's needs, and the capacity of each parent.
The firm prepares parenting plans designed to function in real life, not only on paper, and litigates contested custody matters when necessary.
What this practice handles
- Initial custody determinations
- Sole and joint legal custody
- Parenting time schedules
- Relocation matters
- Custody modifications
- Guardian ad litem coordination
Child Custody & Parenting Plans in Connecticut, step by step
Best-interest analysis
The court weighs the sixteen statutory best-interest factors. No single factor controls.
Authority: C.G.S. § 46b-56(c)
Parenting plan
Plans address legal custody, physical custody, the regular schedule, holidays, vacations, communication, and decision-making procedures.
Investigation if contested
The court may order a Family Relations evaluation or appoint a Guardian ad litem in seriously contested matters.
Modification standard
Custody orders can be modified upon a material change in circumstances and a showing that modification serves the child's best interest.
Cost and timeline, honestly
Both parents agree; counsel drafts an enforceable plan.
Disputes resolved with the help of Family Relations or a GAL.
Custody trials are evidence-intensive. Quoted after assessment.
- Whether a Guardian ad litem is appointed
- Need for child or family evaluation
- Number of contested issues (legal vs. physical custody)
- Travel, private-school, or special-needs scheduling
Estimates only, every matter is priced after a paid consultation.
Where these matters are typically heard
Related insights on child custody & parenting plans
Understanding Child Custody in Connecticut
How Connecticut courts decide legal and physical custody, what a parenting plan must address, and how disputes are resolved.
Custody Schedules for Gold Coast Private-School Families
Designing parenting plans around private-school calendars, boarding-school breaks, summer travel, and college planning.
What to Bring to Your First Family Law Consultation
A practical checklist to make your first meeting efficient, documents, questions, and what to expect afterward.
Child Custody & Parenting Plans: FAQ
What's the right next step?
Pick the door that matches where you are right now. None of these commit you to anything.
Attorney-reviewed by Tara J. Galbo, Galbo Family Law, LLC · Last reviewed June 2026. This page is general legal information about Connecticut family law and is not legal advice for any specific situation.