When parents cannot reach an agreement, Missouri courts decide custody based on the “best interests of the child.” Missouri public policy favors frequent, continuing, and meaningful contact with both parents whenever possible and includes a rebuttable presumption that equal or approximately equal parenting time is in the child’s best interest.

Under RSMo § 452.375, courts consider several statutory factors, including:

• Each Parent’s Wishes – The proposed parenting plans submitted by both parties.

• The Child’s Needs – Each parent’s ability and willingness to meet the child’s emotional, educational, and physical needs.

• Family Relationships – The child’s relationship with parents, siblings, and others who significantly affect the child’s well-being.

• Willingness to Co-Parent – Which parent is more likely to encourage frequent, continuing, and meaningful contact with the other parent.

• Adjustment and Stability – The child’s adjustment to home, school, and community.

• Mental and Physical Health – Including any history of abuse, neglect, or substance issues.

• Relocation Intentions – Whether either parent plans to move the child’s principal residence.

• The Child’s Wishes – When appropriate and free from pressure or manipulation.

A strong custody case requires more than emotion—it requires preparation, evidence, and a thoughtful strategy presented by a knowledgeable Warrensburg custody attorney.

Your child’s safety comes first. If domestic violence has occurred, Missouri courts must make specific findings and structure custody and visitation to protect both the child and the victimized parent from further harm.

At Lotspeich Law, LLC, we take safety concerns seriously and work quickly to pursue protective measures, supervised visitation, or limitations on parenting time when necessary.

When abuse or neglect is alleged by either party, the court must appoint a Guardian ad Litem (“GAL”). A Guardian ad Litem’s job is to investigate and make a recommendation about what is in the child’s best interest.

Who pays for the Guardian ad Litem? Typically both parties (Mom and Dad) are ordered to make a deposit with the court upon the GAL’s appointment. Additional deposits from the parties may be ordered by the court depending upon the needs of the case and amount of work performed by the GAL. The parties each pay 50% of the GAL’s fees up front, however, the court may reapportion the GAL’s fees at the end of the case

Every Missouri custody judgment must include a written parenting plan. This document becomes the roadmap for your co-parenting future and outlines:

• Residential schedules

• Holiday and vacation divisions

• Decision-making authority

• Communication expectations

• Dispute-resolution procedures

A well-crafted parenting plan reduces confusion, prevents conflict, and protects your child’s stability. Our firm helps parents create detailed, enforceable parenting plans designed for long-term success—not just short-term compromise. The more the parties disagree, the more detailed the parenting plan needs to be.

As a boutique family law firm in Warrensburg, Missouri, we focus on:

• Strategic, preparation-driven advocacy

• Client-centered communication

• Local court knowledge

• Clear guidance through complex custody disputes

We understand what judges look for and how to present your strengths as a parent effectively and professionally.

Getting started is simple. Reach out through our contact form or schedule a call—we’ll walk you through the next steps and answer any questions along the way.