When parents separate or divorce, the most important question is what happens with the children. Custody disputes can be stressful, emotional, and confusing, but you don’t have to face them alone. At Wall, McLean & Gallagher, our child custody lawyers in Helena work with parents across Montana to create fair parenting arrangements and protect children’s best interests. Whether you’re setting up custody for the first time, need to make changes to an existing order, or are dealing with enforcement problems, our attorneys are here to guide you.
In Montana, custody is usually decided through a parenting plan. This plan lays out where the child will live, how decisions will be made, and how parenting time will be divided. Parenting plans can be reached through agreement between parents or decided by a judge if no agreement is possible.
Our Helena custody attorneys help parents draft workable parenting plans that balance the needs of the child with the realities of daily life. We focus on clear, practical arrangements that reduce conflict and support your child’s well-being.
Life changes. A parenting plan that worked two years ago may no longer fit today’s circumstances. Montana law allows custody modifications when there has been a substantial change in circumstances, such as:
A parent relocating for work or family reasons
Changes in a child’s school or health needs
Concerns about safety or well-being
Shifts in a parent’s work schedule or availability
Our custody modification lawyers in Helena help parents request changes or respond to modification requests. We work to present clear evidence and arguments that support your child’s best interests.
Unfortunately, not every parent follows the parenting plan as ordered. When custody agreements are ignored, it can create frustration and stress for both the parent and child. Our attorneys handle custody enforcement cases in Helena and across Montana, seeking remedies that restore order and accountability.
Montana courts generally prefer arrangements that allow both parents to play a role in their child’s life. In many cases, this results in joint custody or shared parenting responsibilities. But in situations where joint custody is not workable — for example, when there are concerns about safety or neglect — the court may award sole custody to one parent. Our child custody lawyers help you present your case clearly, whether you’re seeking shared custody or asking the court for primary responsibility.
Montana law also recognizes that grandparents or other relatives may sometimes play a key role in a child’s life. In certain cases, grandparents or third parties can request visitation or custody rights. Our attorneys advise families on these unique situations and represent both parents and relatives in court.
At Wall, McLean & Gallagher, we know that custody cases aren’t just about legal rules — they’re about children, family, and the future. Parents across Montana choose us because we:
Explain the custody process in plain language
Build parenting plans that work in real life, not just on paper
Stand up for parents’ rights in court when needed
Focus on protecting children’s needs above all else
We’re a local Montana law firm, committed to helping families in Helena and beyond through difficult transitions.
If you’re dealing with custody issues, you don’t have to go through it on your own. Contact Wall, McLean & Gallagher to speak with an experienced family law attorney in Helena. Whether you need to set up a parenting plan, request a modification, or enforce an order, we’re here to guide you and fight for your child’s best interests. Call today or request a consultation online to get started.
