Los Angeles Child Custody Lawyers

Experienced Lawyers Helping Parents and Children in CA

When searching for such a firm, you can turn to Sua Law Group. Our legal team consists of skilled child custody attorneys in Simi Valley, CA who will work tirelessly to help you and your spouse reach an agreement that takes into account your parental rights as well as your child(ren)’s best interests. Should you be unable to reach such an agreement, we have the experience, knowledge, and determination to fiercely advocate on your behalf before a family law judge. Our Los Angeles child custody lawyers will always be focused on helping you reach the best possible result for your family at every turn of the process. We can help whether this issue is part of a pending divorce or has surfaced in a post-divorce situation. 

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.

Who Can File for Custody in California?

In California, anyone seeking primary physical custody of a child must file a petition in the court in their county. If the parents are married, then either parent has the legal right to file for custody in California. Unmarried parents and grandparents may also ask for custodial rights. Similar to any family law case, the court will evaluate various factors before making a decision regarding custody arrangements; including what solution is in the best interest of the child, who is closer with the child, and each individual's commitment to providing a safe and healthy environment for the child.

Child Custody & Visitation in California

Child custody in broken down into two types which may be shared by both parents or awarded solely to one parent.

• Legal custody. This type of custody includes the legal authority to make decisions about your child, such as regarding health care, education, religious upbringing, and other life decisions.
• Physical custody. This involves with whom the child will reside. When joint physical custody is awarded, the child will be scheduled to spend overnights with each parent, which may be as equal as possible or more with one parent so as to accommodate school or daycare needs.

Sole vs. Joint Custody in California

When deciding on a child custody arrangement in California, it is important to consider both sole and joint custody options. It is up to the parents or guardians of the child to make the decision of which option would be best for their circumstances.

• Sole custody is where one parent or guardian has full legal and physical custody of their child.
• Joint custody requires both parents/guardians to make decisions to care for their shared child. Both parties are responsible for offering financial support and taking on all parenting duties.

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.