Child custody is often the most challenging aspect of a divorce or separation. In California, the laws surrounding child custody are designed to protect the best interests of the child, which can be complicated to sort out. Whether you’re in the midst of a custody dispute or just beginning the process, understanding how child custody works in California is essential. The good news is that Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP is here to help! Keep reading to learn more about child custody, and why having an experienced child custody attorney in Los Angeles CA can make all the difference.
Types of Child Custody in California
In California, there are two main types of child custody. Legal custody refers to the right to make important decisions about your child’s life, including their education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. Physical custody, on the other hand, determines where the child will live and how much time they will spend with each parent.
Both types of custody can be awarded jointly or solely. Joint legal custody means that both parents share decision-making responsibilities, while sole legal custody grants this right to one parent. Similarly, joint physical custody allows the child to live with both parents according to a schedule, while sole physical custody means the child primarily lives with one parent, and the other may have visitation rights.
Factors the Court Considers in Child Custody Decisions in California
The court’s primary goal in California when determining custody is to serve the best interests of the child. This is where the expertise of a child custody attorney in Los Angeles CA is crucial, as they can help you understand your options and situation.
When determining child custody, the court considers several factors, including:
- The age of the child
- The health of the child
- The emotional ties between the parents and the child
- The ability of each parent to care for the child
- Any history of family violence
- Any regular and ongoing substance abuse by either parent
These factors highlight the complexity of child custody decisions. That is why you need a skilled child custody attorney in Los Angeles CA to guide you through the process and advocate for you and your child.
Why You Need a Child Custody Attorney in Los Angeles CA
Navigating child custody in California requires a thorough understanding of the law and a strategic approach to protect your child’s best interests. At Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP, we are committed to helping parents secure favorable custody arrangements that support their child’s well-being. As your trusted child custody attorney in Los Angeles CA, we provide dedicated and personalized legal guidance throughout the custody process. Whether you’re negotiating custody or involved in a custody dispute, we are here to support you. Contact us today at 909-482-1422 to schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist with your child custody issues in California.
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