David J. Glass Child Support Law Blog on Lawyers.com

Deciding between California parents

The courts in the state of California are not always presented with easy decisions during child custody disputes.  Most parents are quite capable of raising their children in a healthy and constructive environment and often both parents make a pretty strong case in court.

When parents cannot agree on a Los Angeles joint custody arrangement, the court will ultimately have to settle matters of custodial rights and visitation arrangements.  To make the court’s decision a bit easier it examines a few common factors:

The court assesses the primary caregiver in the family.  Often, this is the mother, and, in cases with small children, the mother can be, but not always, the court’s first choice.

The court asks the children who they prefer.  This is often not the decisive factor, but it definitely contributes to the court’s final decision.

The court examines the financial situation.  Providing for the children is very important, and being able to provide for basic needs & care is essential to parenting.

The court tries to keep siblings together.  Unless circumstances of abuse are prevalent, the courts typically want brothers and sisters to live together.

The court considers which parent will allow the children constant communication with the non-custodial parent.  Respecting the parental rights of non-custodial parents is the foundation of a stable custody arrangement.

The court makes a final decision based on the sum total of all of these different factors and more.  Always, in 100% of child custody cases, the court’s goal is to protect the best interest of the child.

Does it matter if we were not married?

Parental rights are a standard no matter if you and your partner were or were not married when your children were conceived, born, or both.  Each of you has equal rights and responsibilities to parent and provide for your children under California laws.

GLASS FAMILY LAW represents clients during a Los Angeles custody battle and disputes in the Beverly Hills area.  We can help you assert your parental rights and interests if you need a custody arrangement as part of a divorce, a break-up with your partner, or other circumstances.

GLASS FAMILY LAW
9320 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 306
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
866-570-6831