Child Custody Issues are Always the Most Important
If you are involved in family law issues related to child custody, you should be aware of the way California family courts interpret your children's needs. California judges urge parents to participate in what is referred to as an "equal share" plan for parenting time. In most cases, the court views joint custody to be in the best interest of the child. In some cases, it is not.
It's your child's welfare at stake. You must stay involved in the process.
I am attorney Lenita Skoretz. At my Redlands, California, law firm, I help parents find a successful resolution to child custody and co-parenting issues. I will make sure that your children's needs are a top priority because I recognize the importance of your child's custody.
Contact me to schedule a consultation. We will discuss the specifics of your child custody case and how to proceed with building an agreement and establishing a good working relationship with your ex-spouse.
I offer experienced representation in all family law matters relating to:
- Child custody and child support
- Visitation
- Move aways and parental relocation
- Paternity issues, visitation rights involving non-married parents
- Modifications to original child custody orders
- Adoption
- Guardianship and conservatorship law
How the child custody process works
In divorce cases involving children, the court will require you and your ex-spouse to attend one mediation session aimed at reaching a parenting time agreement. By working with a professional counselor during mediation, divorcing parents are often able to reach mutually agreeable resolutions that are acceptable to the courts regarding legal and physical custody issues.
When agreement cannot be reached
If you are unable to reach a co-parenting plan that is acceptable to both parties, the family court judge will have to make the child placement decision. It is important for parents to recognize that a child custody fight is very difficult for children. It should be avoided if at all possible.
If custody litigation becomes necessary, the court will carefully review any charges of domestic violence or child abuse. Your entire family history will be open to investigation. A professional evaluator will gather a family history, children and parents will be required to attend counseling, and a forensic psychologist's report will be prepared for the court.
A seasoned family law attorney can guide you through the difficult process of negotiating your child's custody. Contact your local Inland Empire, California, family law lawyer to schedule a consultation about your specific child custody matters.
