Riverside Child Custody Lawyer
Experienced Child Visitation Rights Attorneys
If you are a parent going through a divorce, who gets the children is likely your top priority. Unfortunately, this is often the most heated issue in a divorce. The good news is that a custody lawyer from our family law office in Riverside County is here to protect your rights!
Our team of dedicated child custody attorneys understands the emotional and legal challenges you face during this time. By working with us, you will gain access to knowledgeable representation and practical solutions tailored to your unique family circumstances. We prioritize open communication and transparency, ensuring you are fully informed and empowered at every stage of the process.
Call (951) 400-5273 or contact us online today to speak with a Riverside child custody attorney.
Child's Preference in Custody Decisions in California
In California, a child can state their preference for custody if they are at least 14 years old. However, a judge can decide that it is not in the child's best interest to state their preference. Children over 14 years old have the right to choose which parent they would prefer to live with after the parents' divorce or separation.
This preference can significantly influence proceedings, particularly if the child demonstrates maturity and understanding of their needs. Nevertheless, the court will always evaluate whether honoring the child's preference aligns with their best interests. Our experienced attorneys can help you navigate these considerations, ensuring your child's voice is heard while prioritizing their welfare.
When you work with the Albright Family Law Group, our custody attorneys will help you understand your options in family law matters. We promote mediation conferences out of court because it is often beneficial to come to an amicable agreement that is in the best interest of your children.
Understanding Legal & Physical Custody in Riverside
There are two types of custody:
- Legal custody refers to the decision-making aspects of parenting.
- Physical custody pertains to living arrangements.
In California, the court's main priority is promoting the relationship between each parent and child. It is typically in the children's best interests to have some form of visitation and custodial time with each parent, even if the visitation must be supervised.
This dual approach ensures that both parents play an active role in significant decisions affecting their children, fostering balanced development. The distinction between legal and physical custody helps the court align its decisions with family-specific dynamics, thereby enhancing stability and continuity in children's lives.
Joint Legal & Sole Physical Custody: A Common Scenario
California's most common custody arrangement is joint legal custody with sole physical custody. One parent has primary physical custody for raising the child. Still, both parents have the legal right to make decisions about the child.
A court may favor this setup as it maintains both parents' involvement in critical life decisions while providing the child with a stable, consistent residence. This arrangement requires careful coordination and communication to ensure that both parents' input is effectively reflected in child-rearing practices.
So, you must contact a child custody attorney in Riverside County from our family law group immediately.
Commonly Asked Questions
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Do we have to go to court to make custody orders?
No. You can come to your own agreement in writing and submit it to the court for review and signing. Once the judge signs it, it becomes an order of the court.
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My ex has been absent and does not have contact with me or our child. Do we still have to share legal custody?
You can request that the court award you sole legal custody.
At your hearing, you will be required to provide evidence as to why you should have sole legal custody. Based on your evidence and arguments, the court will determine if you will be awarded sole legal custody.
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Can child custody and visitation orders be changed once approved by the judge?
Yes. Custody and visitation orders are always modifiable. You can file a motion with the court requesting a modification of orders.
Also, parents can prepare an agreement to modify the orders. In most cases, the court will adopt your agreement. You most likely will not have to go to court if you come to an agreement.
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What are the chances of a father getting 50/50 custody in California?
Fathers are not entitled to a 50/50 custody split or any specific custody arrangement in California. However, 50/50 custody is shared in California, and the state tries to promote it when possible. The family courts here usually want both parents to be involved in their kids' lives unless there's a good reason not to.
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My husband and I are separated. We do not have court orders for custody and visitation. He was recently involved in a DUI.
There are a few options available for you.
You can request an emergency hearing, as well as sole legal and physical custody of your children. You can also request supervised visitations if you feel that your children are in danger.
You will typically get a hearing the same day as filing (Orange and Los Angeles counties) or within 24 hours of filing (Riverside and San Bernardino counties).
Through her book, Child Custody & Visitation in California: Preparing for the Battle Ahead & Strategies for Winning the War, she offers readers insight from her nearly two decades of family law practice, delving into topics such as what judges look for, what constitutes compelling evidence, and more.
Why Choose Albright Family Law Group?
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Published Author of Child Custody & Visitation in California
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Featured as a "Leading Lawyer" in "Inland Empire Magazine"
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Regularly Featured as a Legal Commentator on National Radio
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Named a "Woman of Integrity" by the Woman in Focus Forum