Best Child Custody Lawyers in Norway

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Bodø, Norway

English
Angell Advokatfirma AS, established in 1900, is the oldest law firm in Northern Norway and one of the region's largest, with a team of eleven experienced attorneys. Based in Bodø, the firm offers comprehensive legal services across various practice areas, including civil and criminal law, serving...

Founded in 1999
6 people in their team
English
Advokatfirmaet Angelshaug & Co is a Norwegian law firm with offices in Måløy and Nordfjordeid, offering a broad all-round legal practice. The practice comprises experienced lawyers and support staff who deliver high quality legal assistance to private individuals, businesses and the public...
Advokatfirma Sørskår
Stavanger, Norway

Founded in 1996
6 people in their team
English
Advokatfirma Sørskår, based in Stavanger, Norway, is a long established law firm that traces its roots to 1996. After joining forces with Link Advokatfirma in 2024, the firm expanded its resources while retaining its regional focus in Rogaland. The practice provides a full spectrum of legal...
Lawyer Mette Skoklefald
Melhus, Norway

Founded in 2005
3 people in their team
English
Advokat Mette Skoklefald has run her own practice in Melhus since 1989, focusing on family law, inheritance and estate matters, child welfare, and defense counsel assignments in criminal cases. Her breadth of experience across these areas enables her to provide precise legal guidance and practical...

Founded in 2015
7 people in their team
English
Advokatfirma Haagensen & Bakkelund AS is a Tromsø based Norwegian law firm that provides advisory and litigation services to businesses, municipalities and private individuals. The firm has long experience across a range of legal fields and is known for a practical, results oriented approach. It...
Advokatfirmaet Sarwarson AS
Jessheim, Norway

Founded in 2023
English
Advokatfirmaet Sarwarson AS, located in Jessheim, Norway, offers comprehensive legal services across various practice areas, including criminal law, corporate law, and family law. The firm is committed to protecting clients' rights and providing strategic advice to help them achieve their goals. By...
Lawyer Vibeke Lindstrøm AS
Tromsø, Norway

Founded in 2009
3 people in their team
English
Advokatfirma Lindstrøm AS, based in Tromsø, Norway, specializes in family law, personal injury, and social security rights. Led by Vibeke Lindstrøm, who founded the firm in 2009, the practice draws on more than two decades of legal experience to deliver targeted advocacy for individuals and...

English
Advokatfirmaet Actio AS is an Oslo-based law firm with deep competence in criminal defense, family law and child welfare, employment and labour matters, immigration, administrative law and damages claims. Its proximity to Oslo Tingrett underscores a focus on effective advocacy across all courts and...
Bergen Family Lawyer
Bergen, Norway

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Norwegian
English
We are a family-focused law firm in Bergen, with expertise in family and children's matters.Matters that concern the family are often extra difficult and emotionally charged. It requires lawyers who not only understand the law, but also the personal and emotional relationships in the family.Our...

Founded in 1995
English
Advokatfirmaet Lippestad, established in 1995, has grown into a prominent full-service law firm in Norway, offering comprehensive legal assistance to businesses, organizations, and individuals. The firm's areas of expertise encompass business law, civil law, family law, and real estate law. With a...
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About Child Custody Law in Norway

Child custody law in Norway is primarily concerned with ensuring the best interests of the child in cases of parental separation. Custody arrangements can either be sole or joint, and decisions are made based on various factors including the well-being, safety, and the living conditions suitable for the child. Norwegian law prioritizes the child's right to maintain a relationship with both parents, provided that it supports the child's welfare. The parents can often agree on custody arrangements, but if disputes occur, the court intervention may become necessary.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

While many child custody arrangements are settled amicably between parents, there are situations that warrant the expertise of a lawyer. Some common scenarios include disagreements over custody arrangements, allegations of abuse or neglect, relocation issues, and challenges in modifying existing custody orders. A lawyer can provide legal advice, represent your interests in court, and ensure that the agreements comply with Norwegian law and serve the best interests of the child.

Local Laws Overview

Norwegian law regarding child custody is guided by the Children Act, which emphasizes the best interest of the child as the primary concern. Key aspects include:

  • The right of the child to be heard in matters affecting them if they are capable of forming their own views.
  • The preference for joint custody, allowing both parents to share decision-making responsibilities, unless it's not in the child's best interest.
  • Regulations regarding international child abduction, protecting children from unlawful removal from Norway.
  • Procedures for resolving disputes, which can involve mediation or court intervention.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between sole and joint custody?

Sole custody means one parent has the primary responsibility for the child's living arrangements and decisions. Joint custody allows both parents to share these responsibilities, often requiring mutual agreement on significant decisions.

How is custody determined in Norway?

Custody is determined based on the best interests of the child, considering factors such as the child’s relationship with each parent, the living situation, and the ability to meet the child’s needs.

Can custody arrangements be changed?

Yes, custody arrangements can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances or if it is in the best interest of the child to do so.

At what age can a child decide which parent to live with?

While there is no specific age, the views of a child are given more weight as they grow older and more mature. Courts consider a child's opinion if they are capable of forming their own views.

What role does mediation play in custody disputes?

Mediation is used to help parents reach an agreement outside of court. It is often required as a first step before court intervention, aiming to avoid contentious legal battles.

How long does it take to resolve a custody case in court?

The duration varies depending on the complexity of the case and whether it requires a court hearing. Simple cases may resolve in months, while more complex ones can take longer.

What if one parent wants to move abroad with the child?

The relocating parent must obtain consent from the other parent or approval from the court. The decision will be made considering the child's best interests and the reasons for relocation.

Can grandparents seek custody or visitation rights?

Grandparents can seek visitation rights. However, custody would typically only be considered under exceptional circumstances, where it serves the child’s best interest.

Are there consequences for not complying with custody arrangements?

Non-compliance with custody orders can lead to legal consequences, including changes to custody arrangements or fines.

Is legal aid available for custody cases?

Yes, legal aid may be available for those who qualify based on income and the complexity of their case.

Additional Resources

For further assistance, consider contacting the following resources:

  • The Norwegian Directorate for Children, Youth and Family Affairs (Bufdir) for guidance on family-related issues.
  • The Mediation Service (Familievernkontor) for mediation support during disputes.
  • Legal Aid offices (Rettshjelpstiltak) which can provide free or low-cost legal advice.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance in a child custody matter, consider the following steps:

  • Document your concerns and gather any evidence that supports your case.
  • Contact a lawyer experienced in Norwegian child custody law for a consultation to discuss your situation.
  • Explore mediation options as a potential solution before taking the matter to court.
  • Ensure you remain informed about your rights and obligations under Norwegian law.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Norway through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Child Custody, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.