Child Custody

Parental Kidnapping and Its Impact on Child Custody in California

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Parental kidnapping is a deeply emotional and legally complex issue, especially in custody disputes. In California, the law takes such incidents seriously, and the consequences for the abducting parent can be severe. Understanding what constitutes parental kidnapping—and how it affects child custody rights is critical for any parent involved in a custody case. What Is Parental Kidnapping? Parental kidnapping occurs when one parent takes, hides, or keeps a child from the other parent witho...
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Proving the Best Interests of the Child in California

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When California family courts make decisions about custody and visitation, one guiding principle shapes every ruling: the best interests of the child. While each family situation is unique, California law provides a framework that judges must follow to determine what arrangement will serve a child’s health, safety, and overall well-being. Understanding how courts analyze these cases and how parents can present evidence can be crucial in custody disputes. What “Best Interests of the Child” Me...
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Factors in Relocation Custody Cases

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Relocation custody cases, also known as “move-away” cases, can be some of the most challenging and emotionally charged disputes in family law. If you are considering pursuing relocation with your child, or if the other parent is pursuing relocation that will impact your time with the child, it is critical to work with a child custody attorney. In California, courts carefully evaluate various factors to determine whether the move is in the child’s best interest. Here are the key factors consi...
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Different Forms of Child Custody in California

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Who should have custody of your child? This is a question the court may have to decide if you or another party is filing for custody. This decision is by far one of the most impactful in a child’s and a parent’s life. A child custody lawyer can help parents navigate the legal process and protect the best interests of the child. The custody decision is made by the court based on various factors such as the parents’ age, character, stability, mental and physical health, ability, employment res...
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Litigation vs. Mediation in Child Custody Cases: Which is Right for You?

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Child custody disputes are among the most emotionally charged and challenging aspects of divorce or separation. When parents can’t agree on custody arrangements, they generally have two main options for resolution: litigation or mediation. Both approaches aim to determine what is best for the child, but they differ in process, costs, and emotional impact on the family. In either case, it is best to retain a child custody lawyer to assist in advocating for your position and to help navigate the ...
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High Conflict in Child Custody Disputes and Parental Alienation

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It is important for children to have healthy, strong relationships with both parents and to have positive images of both of their parents. During high-conflict custody disputes, parents can occasionally forget this, and some make the poor choice to weaponize their children during the process. This is an issue that family courts have struggled with for years and take very seriously. If, during your high-conflict custody disputes, you notice that the other parent is intentionally and successfu...
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Dividing Property in a High-Conflict Divorce

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Going through a divorce can be a stressful and emotional experience. One of the most contentious issues can be the division of property. Having a divorce lawyer in your corner throughout the process is key, especially in high-conflict situations.  California’s 50/50 Law California follows the 50/50 law, otherwise known as “community property.” This means that all assets and debts acquired during the marriage are considered joint property and are typically divided equally between the ...
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How to Get Sole Custody of a Child in California

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Determining custody of your child can be a stressful time. While the state of California prefers joint custody which allows the child to spend time with each parent, sometimes sole custody is what is best for the child. A child custody attorney can help you navigate the process and ensure the best interests of your child are represented. Physical vs. Legal Custody There are two types of custody in California: physical and legal. Physical custody refers to who the child lives with. Legal c...
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What Should Be Included in a Parenting Plan?

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When parents separate or divorce in California, creating a comprehensive parenting plan is essential. A parenting plan outlines how both parents will share responsibilities and make decisions regarding their child’s upbringing. Courts in California encourage parents to develop a mutually agreed-upon plan, but if they cannot, the court will step in to make custody and visitation decisions based on the child's best interests. Here’s what should be included in a parenting plan: 1. Physical C...
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How to File a Restraining Order in California

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If you or someone you know is navigating such a dangerous situation, it’s essential to seek the appropriate support and resources available. A restraining order (also called a protective order) is a legal tool designed to protect individuals from harassment, threats, abuse, or violence. In California, there are different types of restraining orders depending on the relationship between the parties and the type of harm involved. If you are seeking legal protection during a high-conflict divorce ...
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