Valencia Child Custody & Visitation Lawyers
Serving Parents in Valencia, Santa Clarita Valley & the Counties of Los Angeles, Valencia & Orange
Child custody and visitation arrangements are often some of the most contentious and emotionally charged aspects of a divorce. This is because they directly impact the well-being of the children involved and define the future family dynamics. Parents naturally want their children's best interests prioritized and may have different views on how that should be accomplished. This can lead to disagreements, disputes, and emotional strain.
At Jackman Law, P.C., we can help you resolve this complex issue with compassion, an understanding of California law and court policy, and an objective viewpoint. We know that securing a favorable custody arrangement is crucial for your child’s well-being and your peace of mind. Our experienced attorneys are committed to providing you with informed guidance and vigorous representation to achieve an outcome that best serves your family's needs.
Book a free case evaluation with a Valencia child custody and visitation attorney at Jackman Law, P.C. by phone at (661) 990-9651 or email us on our contact form to get started.
Types of Custody in Valencia, CA
In California, two types of custody can be awarded by the courts:
Legal custody refers to the right to make significant decisions about the child's life, including education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. Custody can be either joint, where both parents share decision-making responsibilities, or sole, where only one parent has the authority to make these decisions.
Physical Custody
This determines where the child will live and which parent will be responsible for the child's daily care. Physical custody can also be joint, where the child spends significant time with both parents or sole, where the child primarily resides with one parent while the other may have visitation rights.
How To Get Full Custody In California
To obtain full custody rights in California, it's essential to understand the legal framework and steps involved. Full custody, also known as sole custody in California, encompasses both legal and physical custody, giving one parent primary decision-making authority and residence for the child.
Here's a guide to help you navigate how to get sole custody in California:
- Understand the Criteria: California courts prioritize the child's best interests. Factors include the child's health, safety, and welfare, each parent's ability to care for the child, and any history of family violence or substance abuse.
- Gather Evidence: Demonstrating why you should have sole custody requires substantial evidence. This may include documentation of your relationship with the child, living arrangements, and any issues with the other parent that could affect the child's well-being.
- File a Request: Begin by filing a petition for custody with the family court. Ensure that all paperwork is correctly filled out and submitted to avoid delays.
- Prepare for Court: Be ready to present your case clearly and convincingly. This includes organizing your evidence and witnesses who can attest to your capability as the primary caregiver.
- Consider Mediation: Before the court hearing, mediation may be required to attempt a resolution. Though not always successful, it can be a less adversarial way to reach an agreement.
- Attend the Hearing: During the court hearing, present your evidence and arguments. The judge will consider all factors to determine full custody rights in California.
Consulting with an experienced family law and divorce attorney near you in Valencia can provide guidance tailored to your situation, streamline the process, and enhance your chances of securing the desired custody arrangement. For guidance on how to get full custody in California, do not hesitate to reach out to a skilled custody lawyer in Valencia at Jackman Law, P.C..
Want to know more about how to file for sole custody in California? Get in touch with a Valencia custody attorney now. Contact Jackman Law, P.C. online or call (661) 990-9651 to secure your consultation.
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Valencia Parenting Plans in California Custody Cases
Parenting plans, or custody agreements, are required in a divorce involving children. These plans should include several key components to clarify and address the child's needs. The more detailed they are, the less chance exists for misunderstandings, disagreements, or other issues that can arise for co-parents.
Parenting plans generally include:
- Custody arrangements: Details about where the child will live and how time will be divided between parents. Information on who will make important decisions regarding the child's health, education, and welfare.
- Visitation schedule: A detailed schedule outlining when the child will be with each parent, including weekdays, weekends, and special occasions, such as birthdays and family events.
- Holiday and vacation planning: Make specific arrangements for holidays, school breaks, and summer vacations, allowing both parents to spend time with the child during these periods.
- Transportation and exchange logistics: Details on how the child will be transported between parents, including who is responsible for pick-ups and drop-offs.
- Decision-making protocols: Guidelines for how parents will make decisions about daily activities, such as extra-curricular sports, social events, or other matters.
- Communication guidelines: Rules for how parents will communicate with each other and with the child, including phone calls, emails, and other forms of contact.
- Dispute resolution: A process for resolving disagreements regarding the parenting plan, such as mediation or counseling.
- Flexibility and modifications: Provisions for modifying the plan as the child grows and circumstances change so that the plan remains in the child's best interests.
Resolving Child Custody & Visitation Issues
You and your co-parent can agree on custody and create your own parenting plan. This can be done through negotiation, often with the help of your respective attorneys. A judge typically approves these agreements if they meet the court policy of doing what is in the child’s best interests. If you and your co-parent cannot agree, several methods can be used to resolve the issue.
Mediation
California requires mediation if parents cannot agree. In some counties, this process is known as "child custody recommending counseling" (CCRC). Mediation aims to help parents reach a mutually agreeable solution regarding custody and visitation, focusing on the child's best interests.
If an agreement is reached, it can be submitted to the court for approval. If mediation does not result in an agreement, the mediator may provide a recommendation to the court, which the judge can consider when making a final custody decision.
Litigation
The matter will be resolved in court if the parents cannot agree through mediation or negotiation. A judge will make a final determination based on various factors to ensure the arrangement serves the child's best interests.
These factors can include:
- The child's age and health
- The emotional ties between the child and each parent
- Each parent's ability to care for the child
- The child's connection to their home, school, and community
- Any history of family violence or substance abuse
- The child's preference if they are of sufficient age and capacity to form an intelligent preference
- Any other relevant factors
How Jackman Law, P.C. Can Help in Your Custody Case
Choosing our team means entrusting your custody matters to skilled and compassionate professionals. We offer personalized attention, objective advice, and rigorous representation in court when needed.
Our overriding mission is to protect parental rights while adhering to California court policy of serving your children’s best interests. Whether your case involves negotiation, mediation, or litigation, we are committed to helping you achieve a viable and sustainable outcome for your family.
Reach us online or at (661) 990-9651 to discuss your case with a Valencia child custody and visitation attorney.
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Extremely knowledgeable attorneys and staff. Mr. Jackman is detail-oriented and explains all the possible options. I’m very impressed with the manner he approaches any questions I have.- Victor G. -
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Ryan’s firm did an excellent job for us when our home insurance denied our claim. This firm took over and they did all the communication with insurance and their attorneys. We received full payment of the original quoted bids.- Mauricio A.