Custody

Columbia Child Custody Lawyers

Whether during a divorce or in a post-divorce situation, child custody can be a highly stressful and emotional challenge. Your decisions on this issue can shape your family’s future for years, profoundly affecting you and your child(ren).

At McDougall Self Currence McLeod, we understand the impact of custody issues and disputes on parents and children. With 30+ years in practice, our firm has resolved countless cases for clients in and around Columbia. You can rely on our extensive experience, negotiation abilities, and courtroom skills as we work to achieve optimum results in this complex matter.

Consult a Columbia child custody attorney at McDougall Self Currence McLeod for advice by contacting us online or at (803) 839-1544 to make an appointment.

Types of Child Custody in Columbia, SC

South Carolina recognizes two key types of custody:

Legal custody determines which parent has the right to make major decisions about the child’s upbringing, such as education, healthcare, and religious practices. This can be awarded solely or jointly.
Physical custody refers to where the child lives and how much time they spend with each parent. Physical custody arrangements can also be sole or joint.

The custody goal is to create a framework prioritizing the child’s stability, security, and well-being. Joint custody is the most common in the state; courts recognize that children benefit the most from a continuing relationship with both parents.

Parenting Plan Requirements

South Carolina courts require parents in custody cases to submit a Parenting Plan. This document outlines how you and your co-parent intend to manage parenting responsibilities.

An effective plan typically includes the following:

A schedule for custody and visitation, including holidays and school breaks
Decision-making processes for essential issues like education and medical care
Communication guidelines between the child and each parent
Strategies for resolving future disagreements

A clear and detailed Parenting Plan satisfies the court’s requirements and provides a roadmap for effective co-parenting.

Resolving Custody Disputes

Custody disputes do not automatically have to be resolved in court. Parents have several options for reaching an agreement, including:

Mediation: A neutral mediator helps parents negotiate a custody arrangement that works for everyone. This approach often reduces conflict and fosters cooperation.
Negotiation: With the guidance of skilled attorneys, parents can reach a consensus without court intervention.

For cases where an agreement is not possible, the matter will go to court, where a judge will determine custody based on evidence and testimony. Our attorneys are experienced in all these methods and work to find the best solution for you and your child.

Factors Courts Consider in Custody Cases

When determining custody, South Carolina courts prioritize the child’s best interests. Some of the factors judges evaluate include:

The child’s age, health, and specific needs
Each parent’s ability to provide a stable and supportive environment
The child’s relationship with each parent
Each parent’s caregiving history and involvement
The child’s preferences (if they are old enough to express them)
Any evidence of abuse, neglect, or substance abuse

Every decision is made with the child’s emotional, physical, and developmental well-being in mind.

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Why Choose McDougall Self Currence McLeod?

Experienced Representation for Criminal Defense, Personal Injury, and Family Law

Award Winning Advocates
With leadership in the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and a history of prestigious awards, we provide the highest caliber of legal representation for your family’s future.
Strategic and Effective Legal Guidance

We believe in practical, results-driven solutions tailored to your unique needs. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, we take the approach that best serves your goals—aggressive when necessary, amicable when possible.

Personalized Service for Every Client
Our team understands that every case is different. That’s why we offer tailored legal strategies, ensuring you receive the right level of advocacy. No matter your situation, we are here to guide you with clarity, compassion, and confidence.
Experienced Representation
With nearly three decades of service and over 90 years of combined experience, McDougall Self Currence McLeod is recognized as a leader in South Carolina family law.

How We Can Help with Custody

At McDougall Self Currence McLeod, we know every family has a unique situation and provide personalized legal support tailored to your needs.

We can help you:

Understand your custody options and legal rights
Draft Parenting Plans that reflect your child’s needs
Resolve disputes through mediation or negotiation
Navigate court proceedings with confidence

Let us provide you with the care and representation you need to navigate this vital issue and achieve an outcome that prioritizes your rights and your child’s best interests.

Call (803) 839-1544 or reach us online to discuss your case with a Columbia child custody attorney.

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Client Testimonials

Read real stories from clients we’ve helped protect and advocate for.

"His professionalism, dedication, and knowledge are unmatched."
If you need a family court attorney who genuinely cares and will fight for you, he’s the one. I am beyond grateful for his help and highly recommend him to anyone in need of top-tier legal representation!

- R.M.
"Very knowledgeable, friendly, smart, and courteous."
They make you feel like family and that you are being heard. Ryan has helped me with my divorce and most recent custody battle. He made sure I got what was deserved and made sure I never walked away with regret.

- M.C.
"By far and away the most professional attorney I have ever worked with."
By far and away the most professional attorney I have ever worked with. John McDougall was fabulous at helping me through the most challenging time of my life. He helped protect me, my boys and everyone involved. I have continued to use him for the past 12 years. I would highly recommend.

- J.B.
"They will fight not just hard, but smart for you."
Spoke with the legal team at McDougall Self Currence McLeod regarding a car accident. After speaking with one of their injury attorneys I came away with the impression that McDougall Law was strategic in building a very aggressive strategy in which to get the best outcome. Recommended if you're looking for a team of attorneys who will fight not just hard, but smart for you.

- D.S.

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