Within our legal framework, “custody” refers to the ability to make “major decisions” involving a child’s schooling, health and medical treatment, and religious affiliation, to name a few.   A parent or parents may be awarded “joint” or “sole” legal custody. “Joint” custody means the parents, working together, will make “major decisions” regarding their child’s schooling, health and medical treatment, and religious affiliation.  “Sole” custody means one of the parents, alone, will make “major decisions” regarding their child’s schooling, health and medical treatment, and religious affiliation. 

“Placement” refers to “physical placement” a parent has with his/her child.  “Primary physical placement” refers to where a child normally resides (lives most of the time).  “Shared placement” means a child spends half the time with one parent and half the time with the other parent.  “Periods of physical placement” refers to time a parent is allotted specifically to spend with his/her child.  “Periods of physical placement” is commonly known as “visitation.”         

“Custody” and “placement” issues can easily become heated and controversial.  If parents can not agree on an issue, motions can be filed that require a judge or court commissioner to decide an issue.  Typical motions filed in court relate to: child support, custody, placement, and visitation.  Since children are involved, this process can be heart-wrenching.  I will do all I can to ease this burden by thoroughly explaining options as well as the process.  I will also effectively advocate on your behalf to ensure that the “best interests” of your child remain at the forefront.        

Milwaukee County Courthouse

901 N. 9^th St.

Milwaukee, WI 53233

Ozaukee County Courthouse

1201 S. Spring St.

Port Washington, WI 53074

Kenosha County Courthouse

912 56^th St.

Kenosha, WI 53140