Is Obtaining Full Custody of Your Kids Possible?

The question of full custody is one of the most common concerns for parents going through a divorce or separation. While every parent wants the best for their children, the process of gaining full custody can be complex. In California, courts prioritize the best interests of the child, and while full custody may be awarded in certain circumstances, it is not always easy to obtain. Keep reading for what you need to know about full custody, how the court makes its decisions, and why working with a child custody attorney in Alto Loma CA can be crucial to your case.

Understanding Full Custody

In California, full custody refers to both legal and physical custody of the child. Legal custody gives you the authority to make important decisions regarding your child’s education, healthcare, and general welfare. Physical custody determines where your child will live. When a parent has full custody, they are responsible for both aspects, while the other parent may have limited or no visitation rights. Full custody is generally less common because California courts encourage shared custody arrangements where both parents remain actively involved in the child’s life. However, there are specific situations where full custody is appropriate.

The Court’s Primary Focus: The Best Interests of the Child

The most important factor in any custody case is the child’s best interests. The court will evaluate various aspects of both parents’ situations to determine what arrangement will provide the most stable and supportive environment for the child. This includes considering each parent’s ability to care for the child, their emotional bond with the child, and the ability to provide for the child’s physical and emotional needs.

If one parent is unable to provide a stable home, has a history of abuse or neglect, or poses a danger to the child, the court may decide that full custody should be awarded to the other parent. However, the court generally believes that children benefit from having both parents in their lives. That means you will need to present compelling evidence to demonstrate why full custody is in your child’s best interests.

Visitation Rights and Co-Parenting

Even if full custody is awarded, the other parent may still have visitation rights unless it is proven that they are unfit or pose a danger to the child. The court aims to preserve the child’s relationship with both parents, so you need to prepare for potential visitation agreements if full custody is granted. In some cases, supervised visitation may be ordered if the court believes the child’s safety could be at risk during unsupervised visits.

Why You Need a Child Custody Attorney in Alto Loma CA

Obtaining full custody can be a challenging process, and having the right legal representation is important. At Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP, we understand the complexities of child custody cases and are dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible outcome for your family. As your trusted child custody attorney in Alto Loma CA, we will help you through the process and build a strong case for full custody. Contact us today at 909-482-1422 to schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist you in protecting your child’s future.

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