Huntington Beach Child Custody Attorney

Child Custody Representation in Huntington Beach

Child custody is often the most emotionally charged and consequential issue in any family law matter. At Furubotten Law, APC, attorney Denise Furubotten has spent 30 years protecting the parental rights and custody interests of Huntington Beach parents throughout Orange County's family courts.

Whether you are navigating an initial custody determination during a divorce, seeking to modify an existing order, or facing an emergency custody situation, our Huntington Beach team provides experienced, decisive representation.

Orange County Child Custody Courts

Most Huntington Beach child custody matters are heard at the Lamoreaux Justice Center, 341 The City Drive South, Orange, CA 92868 — the primary courthouse for Orange County family law. This facility houses the Family Law Clerk's Office, Family Court Services (mediation), and the Office of the Family Law Facilitator. Some Huntington Beach area matters may be scheduled at the West Justice Center (8141 13th Street, Westminster, CA 92683).

Under California Family Code §3170, parents who cannot agree on custody must participate in mediation through Family Court Services before a judge will make a custody order. Denise Furubotten has extensive experience with Orange County's mediation process and will prepare you thoroughly for this critical step.

What Orange County Courts Consider in Custody Decisions

Under California Family Code §3011, Orange County judges consider the following factors in custody determinations:

The health, safety, and welfare of the child
Any history of abuse by either parent
The nature and amount of contact the child has had with each parent
Habitual or continual use of alcohol or controlled substances by either parent
The child's established relationships with siblings, extended family, and community

Fathers' Rights in Orange County Custody Cases

Furubotten Law, APC has a particularly strong track record advocating for fathers in Orange County custody proceedings. Under California law, both parents have equal custody rights — courts are prohibited from favoring one parent based on gender. Denise Furubotten has achieved exceptional custody results for fathers, including in cases other attorneys considered unlikely. Learn more about our fathers' rights practice.

Huntington Beach Child Custody: Frequently Asked Questions

Where do Huntington Beach child custody cases take place?

Most Orange County child custody matters are filed and heard at the Lamoreaux Justice Center (341 The City Drive South, Orange, CA 92868). This is the central family law courthouse for all of Orange County, housing the Family Law Clerk's Office, Family Court Services, and Self-Help Center.

Does Orange County use recommending or non-recommending mediation?

Orange County uses a non-recommending mediation model. This means that if parents do not reach agreement in Family Court Services mediation, the mediator does not submit a recommendation to the judge. Instead, the unresolved issues proceed to a court hearing where both sides present evidence and the judge makes the determination.

How do I modify a child custody order in Orange County?

To modify an existing custody order, you must file a Request for Order (FL-300) demonstrating a substantial change in circumstances since the original order was entered. The change must be significant enough that revisiting custody serves the child's best interests. Our team can evaluate whether your circumstances meet this threshold and prepare your modification request.

Last reviewed: May 2026 · Author: Denise Furubotten, Esq.