Family law
Custody, visitation, and child support
Decisions concerning children are made based on their best interests. The firm helps parents reach realistic agreements or, when that is not possible, represents them before the competent court.
Law 136-03 establishes the framework for custody, visitation, and support and assigns jurisdiction to the Tribunales de Niños, Niñas y Adolescentes (Children and Adolescents’ Courts). The guiding principle is the best interests of the child. The firm prioritizes lasting agreements and, when litigation is unavoidable, clear and well-documented representation.
What this service covers
- Shared or sole custody
- Visitation arrangements, including with one parent abroad
- Setting, increasing, or reducing child support
- Travel authorizations for minors
Common situations
Separation with minor children
Defining who the children live with, how time is shared, and how their expenses are covered.
Unpaid child support
Claiming overdue support payments and enforcement measures.
Travel abroad
Authorization from the other parent or the court to leave the country with the child.
How Balbuena Camps helps
Court-approved agreements
We draft agreements that the court can approve so that they become enforceable.
Representation before the court
Claims and defenses before the civil chamber of the Tribunal de Niños, Niñas y Adolescentes (Children and Adolescents' Court).
How the process works
Attempt at agreement
Meeting with both parties or their attorneys to set custody, visitation, and support.
Claim
If no agreement is reached, filing before the court with jurisdiction based on the child's domicile.
Hearing and decision
The court hears the parties and, where appropriate, the child, and decides.
Documents and information worth preparing
- Children's birth certificates
- Proof of income and expenses of both parents
- Prior agreements or earlier judgments
Responsible attorney
Where we serve
- Puerto Plata Office
- Sosúa Service area
Services in this area
Frequently asked questions
How is child support calculated?
There is no fixed table. The court weighs the child's needs and each parent's financial capacity under Law 136-03.
Sources and legal references
- Law 136-03, Code for the Protection of Children and AdolescentsCitation pending verification
- Dominican Civil CodeCitation pending verification
- Legal review
- Pending review by an attorney
The information on this page is general guidance. It is not individualised legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every situation should be assessed with an attorney.
Consultation
Speak with an attorney at the firm
Tell us about your situation and we will explain clearly which steps are possible, which documents are needed and how we can help.
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