The name Lori Vallow Daybell has become nationally known — not just for the disturbing criminal charges she faced, but for the complex custody and legal issues surrounding her children.
Vallow and her husband, Chad Daybell, were convicted in connection with the deaths of her children, Tylee Ryan and JJ Vallow, as well as Chad's ex-wife. As the criminal investigation unfolded, so did serious legal questions about parental rights, custody, and child protection.
This heartbreaking case highlights how criminal proceedings can intersect with family law, especially in situations involving child safety and parental fitness.
📰 Read more: The Lori Vallow Daybell Case Overview
Under Arizona law, custody (called legal decision-making) and parenting time can be limited, suspended, or revoked when a parent is accused or convicted of crimes — especially crimes involving:
The court’s main concern is always the best interest of the child (A.R.S. § 25-403). If criminal allegations raise questions about a child's safety, the court can act quickly — sometimes issuing emergency orders to protect the child.
In Arizona, if a parent is being investigated or charged with a crime, the following can happen:
🔒 Emergency Temporary Orders – Courts can suspend parenting time immediately.
👩⚖️ Custody Modification – The other parent or a legal guardian can petition to change custody permanently.
🏠 Placement With Relatives or Foster Care – If no safe parent is available, DCS may step in.
⚖️ Termination of Parental Rights – In extreme cases, a parent’s rights may be severed completely.
While Vallow and Daybell were under criminal investigation, concerns arose about the safety of her children. Tragically, by the time law enforcement located JJ and Tylee, it was too late.
Had earlier interventions occurred — such as emergency court orders or third-party custody — the outcome may have been different.
The Daybell case is a devastating example, but it offers important lessons:
✅ If you suspect your child is in danger, act immediately — courts can issue emergency orders.
✅ Criminal behavior may affect a parent’s custody rights — even before conviction.
✅ Courts prioritize safety above all else — not the rights of the parent.
✅ You can petition for temporary or permanent changes in custody if you fear for your child.
At Larson Law Office, we help parents and guardians take legal steps when a child’s safety is at risk — whether due to neglect, criminal charges, or abuse. We also defend clients unfairly accused and fight to preserve parental rights when appropriate.
📞 Call 480-582-5228 or
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🌐 www.LarsonLawAZ.com
