Los Angeles Child Custody Lawyers

Understanding the Child Custody Process

Navigating the child custody process can be overwhelming, especially when emotions run high. At Sua Law Group, we believe that having a clear understanding of the steps involved can empower you to make informed decisions for your family. Here’s a brief overview of what to expect:

1. Initial Consultation: We start with a comprehensive consultation to discuss your unique situation, goals, and concerns. This is your opportunity to ask questions and understand your legal options.
2. Filing for Custody: Once we have a clear plan, our experienced attorneys will help you file the necessary paperwork with the court. This includes petitions for custody and any relevant supporting documents.
3. Mediation: Many custody cases require mediation, where both parents work with a neutral third party to reach an amicable agreement. Our team will guide you through this process to ensure your voice is heard.
4. Court Hearings: If an agreement cannot be reached, your case may go to court. Our skilled attorneys will represent you, presenting evidence and advocating for your rights and your child’s best interests.
5. Final Custody Agreement: Once the court makes a decision, we will help you understand the terms of the custody order and any steps you may need to take to comply.

With our dedicated support, you can navigate the complexities of child custody with confidence. We are committed to protecting your rights and ensuring the best outcome for your children.

How Is Child Custody Decided in California?

In the state of California, family law courts consider the parent-child relationship to be exceedingly important to the wellbeing of children. Child custody is decided based on what is in the best interest of the child. Family law judges favor joint custody arrangements so as to preserve this relationship and will generally award joint custody unless some factor would preclude it. These factors could include a history of domestic violence, alcohol or drug abuse, or criminal activity on the part of a parent.

When determining how to arrange custody in California, the court takes into consideration both parents’ living situation, their mental and physical health, their ability to care for their child, as well as any history of domestic abuse. Of course, it is always ideal for both parents to agree on a custody arrangement outside of court which often proves to be much less contentious and quicker than letting decisions be made by the judge. Ultimately, however, if a formal agreement can not be reached then let our Los Angeles child custody lawyer stand up for your rights and hash out all of the details with the other parent or guardian in order for your wishes for custodial arrangements to be honored. Where custody becomes contested between parents, the courts will make decisions based on what they believe is in the best interests of the child’s welfare.

What Are the Determining Factors for Custody in CA?

Factors that courts will examine in determining the child’s best interests can include:

• The nature of the relationship the child has with each parent
• The stability of the proposed environments
• The amount of time or contact the child has had with each parent
• Whether a parent will be accommodating in fostering the child’s relationship and time spent with the other parent
• Any evidence of parental neglect or abuse
• How custody will affect a child’s schooling, social life, and relationships with siblings or extended family
• Any other factors relevant to the case

Post-Divorce Custody Matters in California

Child custody can arise as an issue in the years following the initial decision. These matters can involve relocations, modifications, and enforcement. A parent may seek to relocate with a child for job purposes, to remarry, or to be closer to primary family members. At some point, the current parenting plan may become unworkable for parents who wish to seek a modification that better fits the needs of children and/or parents. Lastly, if your spouse continually violates the terms of the court’s custody order, you may need to have it enforced by a judge. These issues will all involve returning to court to get the matter resolved and thus legally binding and enforceable. Our Simi Valley child custody attorneys can represent you in all child custody matters.

What Makes a Parent Unfit in California?

In California, determining a parent's fitness for child custody involves evaluating various factors to ensure the child's safety, well-being, and best interests. The court may deem a parent to be unfit for custody based on certain behaviors or circumstances. Some factors that may contribute to a parent being considered unfit for child custody in California include:

• Abuse or Neglect: Any evidence of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, or neglect of the child's basic needs, such as food, shelter, or medical care, can lead to a finding of parental unfitness.
• Substance Abuse: Addiction to alcohol or drugs can impair a parent's ability to care for their child or create an unsafe environment for the child.
• Domestic Violence: A history of domestic violence, whether directed toward the child, the other parent, or another household member, can significantly impact a parent's fitness for custody.
• Mental Health Issues: Severe untreated mental illness or emotional instability that interferes with a parent's ability to provide proper care and supervision for the child may be considered grounds for finding parental unfitness.
• Criminal Activity: Parental unfitness may be determined by criminal activity, especially if the behavior poses a risk to the child.

It's essential to note that each custody case is unique, and the court carefully considers all relevant factors to make decisions in the child's best interests. Our experienced Los Angeles child custody attorneys can help guide you through the process.

Facing a child custody issue in Simi Valley or LA County? Turn to Sua Law Group for a free, initial consultation with our Los Angeles child custody attorneys. Contact us online or at (805) 515-4070.