Los Angeles Child Custody Attorney

Experienced Legal Guidance from Gill Law Group, PC

When navigating the complex process of determining child custody, having a skilled and compassionate attorney by your side is essential. Gill Law Group, PC, provides comprehensive legal support to parents in Los Angeles, CA, seeking a favorable custody arrangement that prioritizes their children’s best interests. Our experienced Los Angeles child custody lawyers are here to help you understand your rights, responsibilities, and options under California law.

Contact us today at (949) 681-9952 to learn about your legal options.

What is Child Custody?

Child custody refers to the legal rights and responsibilities a parent has concerning the care, upbringing, and welfare of their child. In a child custody case, the court determines the most appropriate arrangement to ensure the child’s safety, happiness, and stability. Custody decisions can impact where the child lives, how they are raised, and who makes important life decisions on their behalf. Since each family’s situation is unique, understanding child custody is critical to ensuring an arrangement that best supports the child’s needs.

California law recognizes two main types of custody: legal custody and physical custody. Each type can be granted as either joint or sole custody, depending on the family’s dynamics and the child’s best interests.

• Legal Custody: Legal custody refers to a parent’s right to make significant decisions regarding the child’s welfare, such as education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. In a joint legal custody arrangement, both parents share these responsibilities. However, if one parent is awarded sole legal custody, they have the authority to make these decisions independently.
• Physical Custody: Physical custody dictates where the child resides and how much time they spend with each parent. Joint physical custody means the child spends a significant amount of time with both parents, though it may not be an equal split. Sole physical custody, on the other hand, places the child primarily with one parent, while the other parent may have visitation rights.
• Joint Custody: In joint custody arrangements, both parents share responsibilities, whether for physical, legal, or both types of custody. This arrangement is generally preferred by California courts, as it encourages the involvement of both parents in the child’s life.
• Sole Custody: Sole custody grants one parent exclusive physical or legal custody. Courts may award sole custody if they determine that one parent cannot adequately care for the child or if involvement from both parents would not be in the child’s best interests.

California Child Custody Laws

California’s child custody laws are centered around the child’s welfare and best interests. Courts favor arrangements that support the child’s physical and emotional needs and maintain strong family bonds. In cases where parents cannot agree on a custody arrangement, a judge will determine custody based on several factors to ensure the child’s safety, stability, and happiness.

A key principle in California child custody law is ensuring that children have continuous, meaningful contact with both parents unless one parent poses a risk to the child. California also encourages parents to work together in creating a parenting plan that outlines a custody arrangement and visitation schedule, which can help resolve issues outside of court and reduce conflict.

How the Court Determines Child Custody in CA

When determining child custody, California courts follow specific guidelines to assess each family’s unique situation. Key factors considered by the court include:

• The Child’s Best Interests: Above all else, California courts prioritize the child’s best interests when deciding on custody arrangements. This includes the child’s physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.
• The Child’s Health, Safety, and Welfare: Courts will review any potential risks to the child’s safety, including any history of abuse, neglect, or domestic violence involving either parent.
• The Child’s Relationship with Each Parent: A strong bond with both parents is generally preferred, and courts aim to preserve these relationships whenever possible. The court may consider which parent is more likely to foster a positive relationship between the child and the other parent.
• Parenting Ability and Stability: The court assesses each parent’s ability to provide a stable and nurturing environment. Factors such as each parent’s work schedule, living situation, and involvement in the child’s daily life may be taken into account.
• The Child’s Preference: While younger children may not have their preferences considered, older children, particularly teenagers, may be allowed to express their wishes regarding custody, which the court may weigh in its decision.

How a Los Angeles Child Custody Lawyer Can Help

Child custody cases can be emotionally challenging and legally complex. An experienced Los Angeles child custody lawyer from Gill Law Group, PC, can guide you through the process, ensuring you understand your options and rights. Our team is equipped to assist you with:

• Negotiation and Mediation: We aim to resolve disputes amicably through negotiation and mediation whenever possible. These approaches can save time, reduce costs, and provide a more collaborative environment to create a parenting plan.
• Litigation: If a custody arrangement cannot be agreed upon outside of court, we will represent you in court to advocate for a fair outcome that prioritizes your child’s well-being.
• Modification of Custody Orders: If circumstances change after a custody order is established, we can help you seek a modification that better fits your child’s current needs.
• Relocation Cases: If you or your co-parent needs to relocate, we can help navigate the legal requirements and advocate for an arrangement that respects both your rights and the child’s best interests.

Frequently Asked Questions about Child Custody in California

What is the Difference Between Custody and Visitation?

While custody determines a parent’s rights regarding their child’s upbringing and living arrangements, visitation refers to the scheduled time a non-custodial parent spends with the child. Courts may award supervised or unsupervised visitation depending on each parent’s circumstances.

Can a Child Decide Which Parent to Live With?

In California, older children may have a say in where they want to live, but the court has the final decision. The court considers the child’s preference as part of a broader assessment of what arrangement serves their best interests.

What Can I Do if My Co-Parent Violates a Custody Order?

If your co-parent fails to adhere to the custody order, you may take legal action to enforce the order. This may involve modifying the custody arrangement or seeking other remedies through the court.

Call (949) 681-9952 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation.