Top Child Custody Lawyers Near New Orleans, LA
Rotharmel Shanks
⭐⭐⭐⭐½ 4.9 · 265 reviews
3445 N Causeway Blvd #200, Metairie, LA 70002
(504) 509-5000
Castrogiovanni and Associates, LLC
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 · 122 reviews
3337 N Hullen St, Metairie, LA 70002
Camille Patti, Attorney at Law
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 · 16 reviews
1100 Poydras St Suit 2900, New Orleans, LA 70163
(504) 233-6788
Moisant Law Firm
⭐⭐⭐⭐½ 4.8 · 33 reviews
2332 Severn Ave Suite 100, Metairie, LA 70001
(504) 317-1685
Candice Bennatt Law
⭐⭐⭐⭐½ 4.8 · 80 reviews
2700 Athania Pkwy Suite 250, Metairie, LA 70002
(504) 777-3500
What Does a Child Custody Lawyer in New Orleans Do?
A child custody lawyer in New Orleans represents parents in disputes over physical and legal custody of their children. Whether you're going through a divorce, separation, or need to modify an existing custody order, an experienced New Orleans custody attorney will advocate for your parental rights while prioritizing your children's well-being.
- Physical and legal custody disputes
- Joint custody arrangements
- Sole custody petitions
- Custody modification requests
- Relocation and move-away cases
- Grandparent custody and visitation rights
- Parental alienation cases
How Much Does a Child Custody Lawyer Cost in New Orleans?
Child custody lawyers typically charge $200–$450/hr with retainers of $3,000–$10,000. Uncontested custody agreements cost less. Contested custody battles with evaluations and trial can cost $10,000–$50,000+.
Typical fee structure: Hourly ($200–$450/hr) with retainer
Average settlement/outcome: N/A (family law)
⚠️ Protect Your Rights Now: In Louisiana, custody decisions are based on the child's best interest. The longer you wait, the more the status quo works against you. Courts prefer stability — establish your position early.
Frequently Asked Questions — Child Custody Lawyer in New Orleans
❓ How much does a child custody lawyer cost?
Hourly rates of $200–$450/hr with retainers of $3,000–$10,000. Contested cases with trial: $10,000–$50,000+.
❓ What factors do courts consider in custody decisions?
Child's best interest, parental fitness, stability of each home, child's preferences (if old enough), and each parent's willingness to facilitate the other's relationship.
❓ Can fathers get full custody?
Yes — courts do not legally favor mothers. The decision is based on the child's best interest. Fathers who actively pursue custody often succeed.
❓ Can I modify a custody order?
Yes — if there has been a substantial change in circumstances (relocation, safety concerns, change in needs), a court can modify custody orders.
❓ What is the difference between legal and physical custody?
Physical custody = where the child lives. Legal custody = who makes major decisions (education, healthcare, religion). Both can be sole or joint.
❓ How long does a custody case take?
Uncontested: 1–3 months. Contested: 6 months to 2+ years if evaluations or trial are required.
Related Practice Areas in New Orleans