During the school year, custody exchanges can be a relatively simple matter. Many parents have agreements that allow one parent to drop the children off at school and the other to pick the children up after the day is done. Such arrangements limit interpersonal...
Child Custody
How do California courts handle child custody and best interests?
California courts focus on your child’s well-being when they make custody orders. If you understand what judges look for, you can prepare better and set realistic expectations. Best interests sit at the center Judges start with the “best interests” standard, which...
Does gender matter in California custody decisions?
Many parents worry that California courts give one parent an edge in custody cases. You may hear stories from friends or online groups and wonder if gender will shape the outcome in your case. In California, the law focuses on what helps your child thrive, not whether...
Debunking common myths about child custody in California
As a parent going through a divorce or separation, you will likely encounter a lot of misinformation about child custody. Friends, family and even online forums may offer well-meaning but misguided advice, leading to unnecessary stress and anxiety. It is crucial to...
Holiday co-parenting tips
The holiday season is a time of joy, but for co-parents, it can also bring unique challenges. Successfully navigating this time requires careful planning and communication. Establish a clear schedule Did you know that 22% of children in the U.S. lived with their...
Preparing for Your Child Custody Case in California
Going through a child custody case can be a stressful and emotional process. It’s important to be prepared and informed to ensure the best outcome for you and your child. Here are five tips for preparing for your child custody case in California: 1. Understand California’s Custody Laws California has specific laws regarding child custody and visitation. It’s important to…
What Does the “Best Interests of the Child” Mean?
The law protects the interests of children in many ways, and one way is by setting standards for child custody arrangements. The standard in California is that the custody arrangement must be in the best interests of the child. This standard applies when: Parents agree to custody arrangements, and the court reviews the proposal to ensure it is in the…
Child Custody Over Summer Vacation
If you have a school-aged child and share custody with your ex, their summer vacation from school can be a complicated time. If both parents work and your child is young, you might need to make arrangements for childcare while you are at work. In addition, one parent might want to take your child on a vacation, and there can…
What is Legal Custody of a Child?
Child custody in California is divided into two categories: legal and physical custody. Physical custody refers to where a child will live, but what does legal custody mean? Put simply, legal custody is a parent’s right to make important decisions about their child’s well-being. This does not refer to everyday decisions like what to have for lunch. Instead, it involves…
Can Your Child Choose Where They Live?
Can Your Child Choose Where They Live? When you are facing a custody determination, your child might have opinions about where they want to live. Will the court listen to your child? How much does their opinion matter? The answer is that it depends on the situation. First, the court will always listen to the opinion of a 14-year-old child…

