California: Child Custody lawyers

In most states, family courts determine child custody arrangements based on what is in the best interests of the child. The courts look at several factors in making this determination, such as the parents’ desire and ability to care for the child, the emotional bond between the child and both parents, the adjustment needed if the child must move to a new area, and, if old enough, the child’s wishes. Courts consider each case on the individual needs of the children, including:

• Age and development
• Stability and continuity
• Parental cooperation
• Parental fitness and capacity
• Parent-child relationship

Separating parents' rights will vary depending on the type of child custody and visitation. Legal custody is the court-granted right to make major decisions on behalf of the child. This includes choice of schools, religious education, health care, and discipline. Physical custody determines where the child will live and what visitation rights will be awarded.

Most child custody arrangements are "joint custody," or "shared custody." Both parents have joint legal custody, even if one parent has more time with physical custody. For example, a child may live primarily with one parent. But this does not necessarily mean the parents do not have joint legal custody. Both parents have the right and responsibility to make major decisions in the child’s life and adhere to a parenting plan that outlines the specific arrangement.

There are specific legal procedures that are needed to modify an existing child custody or visitation order. The process may vary from state to state and on the specific circumstances of each case. Consulting with an attorney is important to understand the laws in your area. Generally, steps include:

• Review existing order
• Determine meaningful change in circumstances
• Mediation or negotiation
• File a motion
• Court hearing
• Obtain modified order

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Finding the best lawyer for your unique situation can be a challenge, but the best way to hire a good California attorney is to talk with them, ask them questions, and make sure they meet all your needs. This usually starts with their practice area. Determine which lawyers can handle your type of case and then find a California attorney with experience in that area. So it will be important to ask about each lawyer’s years of experience, legal training, and strategy to your unique legal case.

The attorney-client relationship may also be important. If it is your first time dealing with a legal issue, you may be looking for a lawyer who can clearly and patiently explain the legal process, identify your options, and answer all your questions. You may also want an attorney who is available at any time to provide legal advice. Think about questions to ask, like if there are updates to your case, how will that be communicated? Are there specific California law deadlines that you are required to meet?

The location of your attorney's law office may also be an important factor. In larger cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, or San Francisco, you may want to find a lawyer with a convenient location to you so that you don't have to drive an hour just for signing legal papers. However, some legal services can be primarily conducted through phone calls, emails, written correspondence, and video calls, so you could, for example, have a lawyer in Sacramento handle your legal issues in Riverside.