San Diego Child Custody Lawyer

Proven Attorneys to Protect Your Parental Rights 

Child custody cases are among the most challenging matters in the family court system. Filled with  emotion and the potential to impact child-parent relationships for years to come, they are also among the most contentious.

Whether you’re navigating a divorce or a stand-alone custody case, our San Diego child custody attorneys at Gill Law Group, PC can help. Backed by decades of experience, we have the insight to guide families through the custody court process – from negotiating and establishing parenting plans to handling modifications, enforcement actions and other complex issues involving children.

Learn more about our team and how we can help you during an initial consultation. Call (619) 485-9030 or contact us online to get started.

Custody Cases We Handle

Gill Law Group, PC has helped hundreds of clients navigate the complexities of family law by providing compassionate, custom-tailored legal guidance. Whether your custody concerns stem from a divorce or a stand-alone case involving new or existing court orders, we have the depth of experience to help.

Our San Diego child custody lawyers represent clients in matters involving:

• Child custody in divorce
• Child custody modifications
• Parenting time agreements
• Child custody enforcement actions
• Parental Relocation / International custody
• Child Support
• Paternity
• Guardianship
• Adoption and Stepparent Adoption
• Domestic violence and protection orders

Types of Custody in California

In California, child custody is divided into two main forms:

1. Legal Custody: This refers to the right and responsibility to make decisions about the child's upbringing, including education, healthcare, and religious upbringing.
2. Physical Custody: This determines where the child will live and how much time they will spend with each parent.

How Child Custody Works in San Diego

In San Diego, child custody is established only through court orders. There are two ways that parents can obtain these orders:

1. Mutual Agreement. Parents can mutually agree on legal and physical custody and present their parenting plans to the court, which will either approve or deny the agreement.
2. Court Decision. When parents cannot agree about the division of physical and legal custody, the court may issue a decision for them after hearing evidence at a hearing. 

As in other divorce and family law cases, parents who effectively communicate and reach mutually agreeable arrangements can avoid costly, time-consuming, and stressful litigation without the need for court intervention, where decisions and final orders are beyond their control. Because this can be a difficult task, especially when one or both parties are unwilling to compromise or when there are issues such as abuse, neglect, or unsafe environments, working with an attorney can help.

Whatever path parents take to arrive at their custody plans, there are some important considerations to keep in mind. Some of these include:

• Parental Contact. California law favors meaningful contact between children and both parents (meaning both parents are, when possible, involved in a child’s life) and does not give preference in custody matters based on gender. 
• “Bad” Behavior. A parent’s “bad” behavior is considered by the court only if it impacts their parenting abilities or a child’s safety. 
• Modifications. Existing custody orders can be modified if there are changes in health, employment, living arrangements, or a child’s needs. Relocation (such as moving away domestically or abroad) or concerns about safety can also justify modifications.
• Mediation. In contentious custody cases, courts may require parents to attend mediation before a hearing to attempt to resolve disputes without litigation. 

How Do San Diego Family Courts Determine Physical Custody?

When courts review proposed parenting plans or issue decisions in contested custody cases, they take several factors into consideration. These include:

• The child's age and health
• The relationship between the child and each parent and caregivers
• The proximity of parents’ homes
• Parenting history or history of domestic violence or substance abuse
• The child's preferences if they are old enough to express them.

Parents are encouraged to work together to create a custody arrangement that meets the needs of their child. Our firm can help negotiate and draft custody agreements that are fair and sustainable for all parties involved.

Custody Cases Arising From Divorce

Custody issues are often among the most contentious aspects of divorce proceedings. Our experienced attorneys understand the complexities involved in these cases and are committed to advocating for our clients' parental rights while prioritizing the well-being of their children.

We provide comprehensive legal representation for clients navigating custody disputes during divorce, including mediation, negotiation, and litigation if necessary. Our goal is to help you reach a favorable outcome that protects your relationship with your child.

Trust a Proven Team With Your San Diego Custody Case

Navigating child custody matters can be emotionally and legally challenging. Working with an experienced family law attorney can provide you with the guidance and support you need during this difficult time. 

At Gill Law Group, PC, we offer personalized attention and strategic advocacy to help you achieve your custody goals. Our firm is known for our compassionate approach and commitment to achieving positive outcomes for clients and can leverage our insight to protect your parental rights and interests as you seek a positive resolution in your custody matter. 

If you are facing a child custody dispute in San Diego, call (619) 485-9030 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.