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CHILD CUSTODY OVERVIEW

Carlson & Work can assist parties who wish to receive an order from the Court determining child custody, visitation, and child support. Courts will determine both legal and physical custody of the children during a child custody litigation. The primary basis that a Family Court Judge will consider to determine child custody are the Best Interest Factors found in NRS 125. At Carlson & Work, we have delivered positive results to hundreds of parents who needed their story told and their circumstances listed to. If you need an aggressive and dedicated family law and child custody attorney by your side. Trust in our experience and reputation to deliver the best outcomes for you and your family.

Carlson & Work: Divorce, Family & Custody

4.9

Based on 92 reviews

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I chose to work with Carson and Work from a recommendation from a friend, and I’m so thankful I did. Reliable and professional, Mathew Work and his team have been simple and straightforward with zero qualms in the process. Outstanding communication and timely responses to any questions I had. I would recommend this team to anyone in search of a reputable attorney.

Brianna V.

18:08 16 Sep 21

These people are amazing. From top to bottom, the support staff really takes the time to answer all questions and the attorneys are the best I have ever worked with. I would recommend this firm to my family and love ones. All around great group of professionals.

Sunaira B.

11:28 16 Sep 21

After looking for the right attorney, I finally found them. First, I can't believe how much different my experience was with Carlson & Work opposed to my former self promoted b-list celebrity of an attorney. Hand-down Carlson & Work saved my child from a horrific situation and I am forever grateful for their hard work and dedication to myself and my child. The teamwork at this firm is something to be admired as well. I feel like I literally had an entire law firm reaching out to me. From Taylor, to Lauren and Phil the support staff kept me informed and the partners both helped prep me for trial. I am so happy I called this firm after being told my case was hopeless, I finally have hope thanks to this awesome law firm!

Richard L.

15:53 13 Sep 21

I was looking for an attorney that would fight. Needless to say, I found them!. These people are incredible! Thank you so much. Rebecca and Phil were great!

Therese J.

19:09 12 Sep 21

I’ve had the opportunity to work with Carlson & Work on two separate family law matters. The first a Custody case and the second a TPO case. I couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome on both. They are top-flight, honest and aggressive attorneys. I was informed throughout the entire process and felt incredibly comfortable with the representation, preparation and communication throughout. If you’re looking for an honest, fair and trustworthy attorney, this is your firm. I hope I don’t need them again in the future but if I do it’s a relief to know that they are out there. It’s hard to come by professionals who hold their work product is such high regard.

Jake R.

03:36 12 Sep 21

Phil Koci was such a joy to work with. He responded to all my emails calls and voicemails and was kind and patient with me throughout . Very grateful to have worked with him and very happy with the outcome!

Priscilia H.

12:29 07 Sep 21

After meeting with three other firms and being told "I didnt have a case" I finally reached out to Carlson and Work. Instead of telling me my cause was a lost cause, they told me i had an uphill battle ahead and completely prepared me for how long the fight would be. Well after almost a year of court, we got the exact outcome that the other firms said was impossible. So greatful to this legal team!

William Z.

19:04 02 Sep 21

Carlson and Work are extremely proficient and professional lawyers. Their whole team is filled with great amazing people.I would highly recommend Carlson and Work to anyone looking for a lawyer!

Christian P.

18:00 02 Sep 21

These guys are the absolute best at what they do!!!! They saved my daughter and I! Without the hard working Dedicated people work here I don’t know what I would do! Worth more than gold it self! I goin got see my daughter again🥰🥰🥰🥰

Chad G.

19:17 10 Jun 21

Matt work is a great person, very professional I would highly recommend!

Jose M.

15:39 01 Mar 21

Matthew is a fantastic lawyer and a loyal friend who brings so much good to the Reno community. If you’re looking for an honest, hardworking, and empathetic person to represent you Carlson & Work is absolutely the right place!

Peter S.

22:25 26 Feb 21

Carlson & Work is the firm that attorneys turn to for their legal issues. They provide quality representations, are responsive, will find an efficient way to handle all family law and criminal law. I strongly recommend you call Matthew and Rebecca if you need legal help.

Alex V.

21:07 26 Feb 21

Matt work and his team are not only highly professional and knowledgable, but they treat you as if you are part of the family. I wouldn't want anyone else on my side in court. Winning is everything when everything is on the line... thank you guys!!!!

Eighty8 S.

20:55 26 Feb 21

Mat Work and his team are so communicative and responsive, which in my opinion is the most important aspect for an attorney/law firm. The knowledge and professionalism that him and his staff bring is so refreshing. At the end of the day they treat you like a person with compassion and not just another "client.". I highly recommend Carlson & Work. 🔥

Fidel S.

20:55 26 Feb 21

Matthew and Rebecca are such a breath of fresh air when it comes to attorneys. They don’t frivolously bill you, they only speak the truth and are willing to have the difficult conversations when necessary. If you or your family are looking to retain a hard-working law firm with solid humans, these folks are the answer. My family and I put our stamp of approval proudly on them.

Raphaelle S.

20:21 31 Dec 20

If you’re looking for somebody to coddle you, hold your hand and tell you what you want to hear, not what you need to hear, this may not be a fit. However, if you’re looking for hard honest truths, grinders and a law firm that isn’t going to waste your time or your retainer, these are your people. I quickly learned, if I needed to hear from them, I would. Otherwise, I let them do their job and in the end I couldn’t be more proud of how the case turned out for my family.

Weston C.

19:47 24 Dec 20

I was involved in a serious car accident last year. I skipped the games and went straight to a friend in the family that practices bankruptcy law. She eagerly sent me to Attorney Mathew Work. Trust me when I tell you, not all attorneys are created equal. Our initial offer increased 500% after Mr. Work got involved. He is a man of his word, direct, blunt and has an incredible work ethic.

Chaim T.

22:39 20 Dec 20

Update:I was contacted shortly after leaving this review and they were extremely cooperative and understanding of my sons situation. They agreed to set up a consultation for my son TODAY 😃🙏. Thank you for your time and you have no idea how much you are appreciated right now.Original:The website says same day consultation but when you call to schedule you are told weeks out. Its an emergency case with a hearing scheduled less for than 24 hours after being served and I'm being told weeks after they state in black and white same day.

lara S.

18:27 18 Nov 20

If you are looking for attentive, caring, and super-smart attorneys, this is your firm. Rebecca and Mathew are quickly becoming the best attorneys in the area for a reason. They will take on your needs in the most efficient and professional way possible. They also are genuinely good people and care about their clients. If you need them, call them without hesitation. You are in good hands.

Kyle Y.

17:15 30 Sep 20

Rebecca is wonderful; she came through after a long fight between my daughter, Kelly G. and her ex. The children are now safe! Highly recommend her and the Carlson and Work team. Thank you again so much!

Kaye C.

18:04 15 Sep 20

If you're looking for an honest and hard-working law firm, these people are for you. They have a work ethic to match the reputation they have earned.

Chris A.

15:07 28 Aug 20

Carslon & Work, you all ROCK. Thank you. Thank you. Thank YOU! we did it! I can finally sleed and I am so relived. I will be recommending everyone I know!

Lacey P.

13:49 22 Aug 20

If you're looking for an honest and hard-working, these people are for you. They have a work ethic to match the reputation they have earned.

Frank S.

23:47 19 Aug 20

I hired Mathew to defend me against what were false charges. From the first appearance in court, it was obvious the court held Attorney Work in high regard and more obvious that the DA trusted him. In the end, the false charges were dismissed. I would 100% recommend Mathew to anyone looking for an honest attorney.

Trisha C.

06:21 18 Aug 20

I can't say enough about how great Rebecca was to work with. She was the perfect attorney for my case and I am so pumped that I was able to work with her and her awesome staff.

Letha W.

21:47 14 Aug 20

Rebecca Carlson did a phenomenal job at representing me during the COVID19 pandemic at our telephonic hearing. She really did an excellent job. Thanks again Rebecca!

! T.

22:08 13 Aug 20

Mathew and his team really cared about me, my children and the process. 5 star law firm!

Evelyn G.

21:39 12 Aug 20

Attorney Rebecca Carlson was tough, honest and fair. She was always available to take my questions and calm my concerns. Very thankful I was able to retain this group.

Mark S.

06:12 11 Aug 20

I am so thankful and pleased that I hired this incredible law firm. They worked hard and got the verdict my family and children needed.

Deonna L.

21:21 08 Aug 20

Very tough process but in the end, it was obvious I selected the best law firm in town. Kind people who are willing to have hard conversations and tell you the likely outcome. They don't blow smoke and really do care out us.

Steve S.

20:32 08 Aug 20

I was up to speed, informed throughout the entire case process and so happy with the outcome of the case. Very happy with the service I received from the firm's manager, Lauren.

Beverly B.

19:59 06 Aug 20

The buzz about this firm is real. They are just different. The difference is, they aren't afraid to tell you you're being an idiot, or that your expectations are not real. They live and die by fact and ignore all the noise

Rochelle L.

22:14 03 Aug 20

They deliver. Plane and simple. They're never going to sugar coat things, they tell you hard, honest news, but they actually care about the best interest for everyone in the process, especially my kids. I respect that they tell you hard news even when it is tough.

Marc C.

09:50 01 Aug 20

The second we walked into court, I knew I had made the right decision. Rebecca > His attorney. It was almost sad to watch unfold. She was sharper, more confident and just quicker on her feet.

Raymond D.

09:32 31 Jul 20

I would happily recommend this firm to those I care about. I have no doubt that with Rebecca and Mathew in their corner, they would be in great hands.

Collen P.

21:25 25 Jul 20

The process was long and tough but I am so thankful I had this law firm on my side. Rebecca and Mathew are first-class people and some of the best attorneys I have ever seen work. Very thankful

Leo W.

22:06 11 Jul 20

From start to finish, this firm cares, they work hard and they are always looking ahead for the next steps and preparing as best they could. I was always prepped ready for court and kept up to speed when there was information to receive.

Hector P.

18:47 02 Apr 20

My experience with Attorney Rebecca Carlson was terrific. She was kind, helpful, honest and communicated throughout the entire process. Even when the news was hard to deliver, she was there by my side. In any family law case, there are high and lows but with Attorney Carlson by my side, I was ready for the lows and knew she was always working to deliver the highs. I would highly recommend my friends and family to this firm.

Jane A.

02:08 01 Apr 20

From the first day, I consulted with Carlson and Work until the last day in trial. I knew they had my back. So thankful to these hard-working professionals. Such a great team.

Dayna K.

20:54 29 Mar 20

Friendly folks.

Stephen O.

04:31 04 Jan 20

I hope I never need them again but if I do, I’m so happy to know they are there!

Joyce D.

11:06 25 Dec 19

Hire this firm. They are the real deal and really care about people.

Steve F.

10:15 23 Dec 19

Rebecca and Mathew are such a perfectly matched partnership. They are hungry and they are determined. I was so impressed working with them both.

Emily M.

20:41 22 Dec 19

Working with any law firm is never easy, there is always tension but you will get the truth from this law firm. I never had anything sugarcoated and I was never told what I wanted to hear, I was only told the truth. At the end of the day, we didn’t get the results we all had hoped for but I got more than my moneys worth out of everyone. The outcome is fair and seeing these people work, gives me peace of mind that I got the best results possible.

Jeffrey A.

22:52 21 Dec 19

I’ve spent the last year speaking with this firm on nearly a daily basis. I would be lying if I didn’t have days that I was upset with them and days that I was pleased with them but at the end of the day, they always answer the phone, they were always honest and prepared me for the difficult times ahead . We went through a tough battle together and I’m so thankful, at the end of the day, they were in my corner.

James C.

22:05 20 Dec 19

Thank you so much to Rebecca ! I will never forget the dedication you all showed me and the compassion you practiced with. My life has been bettered in so many ways just for knowing you all.

Lacresha B.

01:13 19 Dec 19

As former law-enforcement, I have spent my fair share of time in court. Attorney Mathew Work, is hands-down the best trial attorney I have ever seen in my 30 years in law-enforcement. He is confident but not arrogant. He is humble but not passive. He is intelligent but not a know it all. He understands the dynamics and is typically three questions ahead of everyone listening in the court room. He is playing chess and everyone else, often including the judge, is playing checkers. Matthew may sincerely be the only top tier trial attorney in Nevada

Joanne S.

19:45 17 Dec 19

Recently, I found myself facing a very scary custody battle with a very malicious ex. I needed a fighter. I found Rebecca. She is an absolute bull dog. She is smart and demands respect in the court room. Frankly, seeing the opposing attorney in court with Rebecca said it all. She ran circles around the opposition.

Nicholas G.

18:24 16 Dec 19

Hire this firm! They are truly remarkable. Rebecca and Lauren were an excellent tagteam.

Amanda K.

14:29 15 Dec 19

I can’t thank Rebecca enough. She was so honest, dedicated and loyal to me as a client throughout.

Lana R.

14:20 14 Dec 19

Work Law always does an outstanding job. From the first consultation to the end of my case, they have been extremely helpful. I would highly recommend Work Law to anyone needing help in Family Law or Criminal Defense.

Dalton W.

01:09 07 Nov 19

Thanks to Rebecca Carlson, my kiddos are finally where they should have always been. I can’t think Work Law enough for the patience and dedication they showed me.

Roy T.

06:43 05 Nov 19

Mathew Work and Rebecca Carlson were a dynamite duo. The last six months have been very difficult but I’m not certain I could’ve made it through without them. Thank you!

Louise A.

14:11 03 Nov 19

Rebecca Carlson is hands-down the most honest and aggressive attorney I have ever worked with. A lot of attorneys talk a big game but she actually walks the talk.

Carolyn O.

20:39 02 Nov 19

Lorin Taylor and Rebecca Carlson were a dream team. I cannot thank these girls enough for everything they did for me.

Chris E.

14:18 01 Nov 19

I can’t thank you all enough. You are the light at the end of a very difficult tunnel I needed to get through. I know I wasn’t always easy to deal with but thank you for the grace and kindness you showed me.

Arnold W.

03:48 01 Nov 19

You all rock! Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart. I am so thankful that there are still people like all of you in the community and in the legal profession

Eric S.

11:48 10 Oct 19

I was recently charged with a DUI and retained Mathew Work. They say a good lawyer makes all the difference, they do. Before meeting with Mathew, I met with one of the billboard-type attorneys. The entire meeting was the [other] attorney bragging about all the people he knew and how he would “walk me” through the process. Basically, how he was going to help me get convicted. Mathew, on the other hand, explained the entire process of a DUI conviction, what the DA would need and what he would attack. He did just that, three days later, all charges were DROPPED! He. Is. The. Real. DEAL!

Dwight N.

19:20 07 Oct 19

I called the law office with a couple of questions. Before I could get the words out, they wanted to set me up with an appointment for $200.However after speaking with Matt York and answering my questions I was very satisfied and I am looking for a positive future relationship

Carl H.

03:33 29 Jun 19

Mathew is a stand-up guy!

J D.

20:19 30 Nov 18

Mathew is a standup guy, and is man enough to own up to situations and make them right!

James D.

20:12 30 Nov 18

Rebecca was a godsend. From the first day I met with her to today my life has changed remarkably for the better. I can’t thank her and The Firm enough.

Annie D.

01:28 17 Jun 18

If you need a family law attorney or are going through a custody battle, look no further. These people rock and actually care about their clients. Such a breath of fresh air.

Jim H.

18:05 15 Jun 18

Matthew and Rebeca were aggressive and dedicated to my case from the first day I retained them. Going through divorce or any family law matter can be very difficult but, it helps to know you have people that know the process and can get you fair results.

Gwen J.

15:37 13 Jun 18

If you are in Reno looking for a family law attorney, seriously consider Matthew. He is honest and hard-working. He always responded to my emails personally and I really felt like I had a teammate more than attorney.

Albert A.

08:58 19 May 18

I’m so happy I found Work Law. They were practical, pragmatic and realistic at every turn. They gave me the good and the bad news with nothing but the truth. I really admire Matthews approach to law, he is very common sense and doesn’t waste your time.

Vera B.

13:16 17 May 18

Matthew, Rebecca and Lauren were a dynamite trio. I was up to speed with the process of my divorce at every step and in the end I got a fair and hard-fought victory. I would highly recommend this legal team to anyone going through a divorce or serious legal matter. They’re not cheap but you get what you pay for.

Linda S.

18:39 07 May 18

I can’t thank Work Law enough. They came through in one of my darkest hours. Krystal was godsend. She was kind, compassionate and on the ball throughout the entire case. Matthew was able to give tough criticism when I needed to hear it and skillfully attacked the opposing party at trial. He has a gift in the courtroom. They changed my life forever for the best. Thank you!!!

David W.

08:08 06 Apr 18

Matthew and Rebeca were incredible to work with. At every turn, they returned our emails, or phone calls and were there for us whenever we needed to speak. I can’t thank them enough for getting me through such a difficult time. I would highly recommend Matthew and his team to anyone looking for an attorney in Reno. They were missed and compassionate and I can’t thank them enough for bringing a human element to my case. They changed my life in so many positive ways.

Annabel P.

02:23 06 Apr 18

Matthew and his team were nothing short of Lifesavers. They came through for me when I needed them the most. My life has done a complete shift since meeting Matthew, all for the better. He is a unique attorney, he generally cares and has a huge heart. If you were looking for a family law attorney, and right now, Matthew is your guy.

K.Jacobs K.

17:31 16 Jan 18

Work Law was a dream to work with. Can’t thank them all enough and couldn’t have asked for a better outcome to a very difficult family case.

Mike H.

13:09 04 Jan 18

Mr. work was honest and aggressive throughout his entire representation of my case. He couldn’t have gotten a better result for me and I will never be able to thank him enough. What a top flight guy.

Nandlal M.

17:34 24 Oct 17

Matthew was honest, straightforward and at times blunt but his honesty saved me thousands of dollars in legal fees when he shot it to me straight.

Candis M.

03:43 23 Oct 17

Mathew is an excellent attorney who was able to quickly and effectively settle my traffic case despite prior history. Additionally, he's very nice to work with as he is frank and to the point about what needs to be done to win the case. Definitely would reccomend!

Hawye B.

18:38 22 Oct 17

I went Law firm in Reno, Nevada. I'm very pleased and satisfied with the firm. They are very professional. Highly recommended!

Caris B.

16:45 18 Oct 17

I’ve know Mathew for years and he has helped me and a number of my friends out over the years. He will always put his clients first. There is nothing this attorney hasn’t seen. Very professional, friendly, thorough and does an awesome job explaining the legal side of things in lamemens terms. Highly recommend.

Misty W.

21:28 12 Oct 17

When seeking legal representation, there were many factors that I considered. Chief among them were Legal Competence, Trial Experience, and Accessibility. After interviewing multiple attorney's in the Reno area, Mathew was the clear choice to represent my case.As a former Deputy City Attorney with the City of Reno, Mathew is not only exceptionally well-versed with regards to the letter and spirit of the law, but also, he has a unique understanding of its application within the context of the local judicial environment there in Northern Nevada. Looking beyond his proven track record of successful litigation, Mathew is a warm, decent human being. I will continue to work with him in the future and would recommend him to friends and family without hesitation.

John M.

15:08 11 Oct 17

Work Law is the most honest and hard-working representation you will ever experience. Whether you are in need of family, defense, or business law, look no further than Work Law. Most importantly you get direct contact with Mr. Work. You will not be treated as "a number" like so many other law firms around. You will know he cares about your case. He will work hard to fight for you and you will go to court knowing all the different possible outcomes and what every step entails. Trust me when I say Work Law will go to court for you with the finest representation you will ever come across.

Mark C.

04:01 11 Oct 17

I have never met a more honest person in my life. Mathew always brings his "A" game, day in and day out. If you want an attorney that strengthens his argument, instead of raising his voice to get his point across, Mathew Work is your go to guy. He is by your side every step of the way.

Casey C.

03:23 11 Oct 17

This team knows how to approach delicate situations to maximize client advantage. My family appreciates the one on one family feel, with experience and expertise to match. Highly recommend.

Spencer H.

00:17 11 Oct 17

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CHILD CUSTODY LAWS IN NEVADA

Child Custody Laws in Nevada focus heavily on the best interest of your child. Reno family law courts will consider many factors when determining the child custody that is best for your child. The best interest factors found under NRS 125(c) will serve as a guiding light to assist the court in determining child support and child custody. One of the courts biggest concerns will be which parent displays the tools to best support the emotional and physical needs of their child as well as which parent is the most willing to work with their former spouse to put their child’s needs first.

PHYSICAL CUSTODY

Physical custody relates to determining the schedule in which the children visit with each parent. Physical custody and visitation in Nevada are determined by the Nevada Best Interest Factors.

NRS125C.0035(4) states that the family court should consider the following when addressing the best interest of the child:

the child’s ability to maintain contact with siblings
the mental and physical health of both parents
the child’s physical and emotional needs
any history of abuse
the child’s wishes, if the child is of sufficient age and intelligence to decide
the child’s relationship with each parent
the level of conflict between the parents
whether either parent has committed an act of abduction against the child or any other child
each parent’s willingness to encourage a relationship between the child and the co-parent

The Court will then determine child support based on Nevada law and the physical custody schedule. An attorney at Carlson & Work can help you analyze the Nevada Best Interest Factors to request the court determine a physical custody schedule that is best for the children.

LEGAL CUSTODY

Legal custody pertains to major life decisions surrounding the children such as medical or educational choices. Parents typically share joint legal custody of children even if one parent sees the children more often than the other, but sometimes the Court will award sole legal custody to a parent based on certain circumstances. When parents ordered to share legal custody have a dispute about a decision regarding their children, parents can ask the Court to decide in their favor.

CONTACT CARLSON & WORK TODAY!

Receiving a Court order establishing child custody and visitation can benefit families because it creates a custody schedule for children that both parents must adhere to. Carlson & Work provides representation for parties filing for child custody.