Child Custody & Visitation

California Child Custody & Child Visitation Lawyer

Child custody and child visitation matters are two of the most difficult and emotional issues involved in a divorce. Children are in the middle and the court is responsible for protecting the children's well-being, even if it conflicts with the wishes of either or both parents.

Legal Custody & Physical Custody

Legal custody refers to parents’ right to make decisions regarding such matters as a child’s education, medical treatment, and religion. In joint legal custody agreements the parents share the decision-making responsibility.

Physical custody refers to where the child will reside, and whether there will be shared physical custody and joint visitation. When children reach an age where they can make a reasoned choice, they are permitted to state a preference. Their preference is not binding on the judge and he/she must still act in the best interests of the children.

California family law courts may award joint custody or sole custody, for legal custody and physical custody; and temporary custody prior to resolution of a divorce. California favors joint legal custody when possible. This allows both parents to be involved in raising their child.

Assessment of Parental "Normalcy"

If the parents cannot reach an agreement regarding custody of the minor children, and if the evidence is insufficient, a psychological assessment may be court ordered. The assessment evaluator attempts to determine if one of the parents falls outside the bounds of "normalcy." If both parents are found to be "normal," the evaluator advises the court as to which parent will provide the most beneficial environment for the children.

Domestic Violence

At JC Law Offices, you will find a California child custody lawyer who will advocate on behalf of your and your child’s best interests. If you are concerned about sharing custody or child visitation with your spouse due to a history of physical or emotional abuse, we will aggressively pursue a sole custody order. We also help enforce or modify orders.

Contact JC Law Offices

For more information about how we will fight for you, contact a child custody lawyer at JC Law Offices by calling 1.866.LAW.JCRG. We offer low cost initial consultations and accept walk-in appointments. Evening and weekend appointments are available by request. All major credit cards are accepted.