Protecting Your Child’s Best Interests During Family Disputes
As a parent, fighting for your most precious loved ones is an emotional rollercoaster. We become your voice while keeping your children’s best interest as a priority. Your family law conflict may be temporary, but the effect it has on your relationship with your children can last for years. By providing compassionate legal guidance, we have helped many families in Stockton and throughout San Joaquin County protect their family bonds while resolving their custody and visitation conflicts.
Keeping Your Child’s Needs A Priority
At Amaral Law Inc., we make it our priority to advocate for children when we assist parents with all types of family law issues. We strive to minimize the impact your legal concerns have on your children’s mental and emotional welfare. We can also serve as a minor’s counsel in high-conflict custody cases.
Securing Fair Custody And Visitation Agreements
Whenever possible, we encourage parents to work together to find parenting solutions without involving the court. Negotiating custody and visitation terms will allow you to retain more control over your final agreements. We remain up-to-date with California’s custody and visitation laws so we can educate you on the benefits and challenges associated with these options:
- Sole physical custody
- Joint physical custody
- Sole legal custody
- Joint legal custody
- Emergency child custody and visitation orders
- Parent’s rights
- Paternity actions
- Protective orders
- No contact orders
In your divorce or custody challenge, we will help you develop a custody or visitation plan that meets your child’s needs and protects your parenting rights. If you are unable to reach an agreement outside the courtroom, our firm is qualified to represent you in court.
Acting Swiftly During Custody Emergencies
Far too often, we have represented parents in custody emergencies, which include possible parental abductions or kidnappings. If your child’s parent disregards the terms of your agreement, we will act promptly to secure a court order. We have been able to receive emergency orders within 24 hours of the violation and have successfully petitioned for custody modifications and temporary orders.
Frequently Asked Questions About Custody And Visitation
Do you have questions about custody or visitation issues in California? Below is some general information to consider. We also offer initial consultation appointments if you have questions about a specific situation.
How is child custody determined in California?
Can a father get physical child custody in California?
Yes. Every family is different, so who gets custody will depend on the situation. Contrary to what some people may believe, there is no presumption in favor of mothers or fathers when it comes to physical custody. Joint (shared) physical custody is the preferred arrangement when it’s in the best interests of the child.
How is child custody usually shared in California?
Physical custody can be shared through any number of arrangements. It all depends on the parenting time split and what works best for your child and family. Some of the most common joint custody arrangements include:
- Alternating weekends
- 2-2-3
- 2-2-5
Additional schedule options are also negotiated if it is a schedule that is based on the best interests of the child and parental availability. When you work with us, we can help you evaluate your situation and discuss the pros and cons of different types of custody schedules.
Can a parent with physical child custody relocate?
If you have permanent sole custody, you may be able to move without the other parent’s input. However, a lot depends on the terms of your custody arrangement. If you are considering a relocation, it is important to discuss your options with an experienced custody lawyer.
Can child custody and visitation change after my divorce is final?
When life changes and your existing custody schedule no longer works, you can pursue a modification. The easiest way to do so is to get the other parent’s agreement. If they don’t agree, you may need to seek a modification in court. We can help you through this process, ensuring that the modification is solidly documented so that you don’t face hurdles later.
Talk To An Experienced Custody And Visitation Lawyer
You can connect with us through our online form, or by texting or calling us at 209-740-4800. You can depend on us to return your messages promptly because we know that your custody issues are urgent. Arrange your custody consultation today.