Rancho Cucamonga Child Custody Lawyer
Protect Your Parental Rights & Secure Fair Custody in San Bernardino County, California
When parents decide to divorce or legally separate, one of the major issues that will have to be sorted out is child custody.
The best way to protect your rights during this process is to hire a compassionate Rancho Cucamonga child custody attorney.
Whether you are going through a divorce and need to establish a custody agreement or you are looking to modify a current child custody arrangement, we invite you to contact our team.
At Family Law Advocacy Group, we are intimately familiar with all aspects of California family law and can aggressively work to see that we secure the best possible child custody agreement on your behalf. Custody agreements can affect child support proceedings, as well, so it is very important to look at the big picture and consider everything that will need to be worked out during this process.
Get skilled representation on your side. Call our Rancho Cucamonga child custody attorney to schedule your initial consultation!
Creating a Parenting Plan for Child Custody
When dealing with child custody issues, it's important to have a detailed parenting plan in place to ensure the well-being of your child and to avoid conflicts in the future. Our experienced Rancho Cucamonga child custody lawyers at Family Law Advocacy Group can help you create a comprehensive parenting plan that outlines the responsibilities and schedules for each parent.
Key elements of a parenting plan may include:
- Physical custody arrangements
- Legal custody agreements
- Visitation schedules
- Holiday and vacation schedules
- Communication methods between parents
Having a clear and well-thought-out parenting plan can help reduce stress and uncertainty for both parents and children during the custody process. Contact Family Law Advocacy Group to learn more about creating a personalized parenting plan for your child custody case in San Bernardino County, California.
What Are My Custody Options in California?
The parent-child relationship is important, but complicated, so the State of California has different types of child custody options to best fit each unique situation.
Three types of custody arrangements in California:
- Physical Custody – This is where the child will permanently reside. It can be given as "sole" custody or "joint" custody, which allows for more time with both parents. Learn how to win full custody.
- Legal Custody – This determines who has the right and responsibility to make decisions about education, health, welfare, etc. of the child or children. It can also be joint or sole.
- Visitation Rights – If sole custody is the outcome of the child custody agreement, a plan must be made to allow the non-custodial parent time with the child or children.
Divorce court judges want both parents to be as involved in their child's lives as possible, as long as it is in the best interests of the child, so it is common for joint physical and legal custody to be awarded. However, every family's situation is unique, so it is best to contact an experienced child custody attorney who can explain your rights and guide you to a favorable outcome of your case. Call us today at (909) 992-0188.
Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution
When it comes to child custody disputes, mediation and alternative dispute resolution methods can be effective ways to reach a mutually agreeable solution without the need for a lengthy and costly court battle. Our experienced Rancho Cucamonga child custody lawyers are skilled in facilitating productive discussions between parents to find common ground and create a parenting plan that prioritizes the best interests of the child.
Benefits of mediation and alternative dispute resolution include:
- Reduced conflict and animosity
- Quicker resolution compared to traditional litigation
- Empowerment for parents to make decisions about their child's future
- Less stress and emotional strain on children
- Cost-effective compared to court proceedings
How Does the Court Determine Custody in California?
In determining the "best interest of the child," courts consider the factors listed in California Family Code Section 3011. These will differ from family to family, which is why hiring a skilled custody lawyer in Rancho Cucamonga is critical.
Generally, the judge looks at the following factors:
- Age of the child
- Who acts as the "primary parent"
- The child's health and any special medical needs
- Each parent's record (ex: past history of abuse)
- Each parent's occupation/ability to secure and retain employment
There is no set way of deciding who will be given custody and what degree of custody will be given. In many cases, a custody ruling will heavily depend on how the issues are presented. This is why it is so important to have an experienced legal representative who is familiar with all the nuances of California's child custody laws.
How Long Does a Child Custody Case Take in California?
Child custody cases can take up to 18 months or more to resolve. Courts have a strict schedule, and hearings are often rescheduled.
The time it takes to settle a custody dispute can range from several years, depending on the case's specifics. Custody disputes can also cost between a few thousand dollars and tens of thousands.
At What Age Can a Child Refuse to See a Parent in California?
In California, children cannot refuse to visit either parent under existing visitation orders until the children reach 18 years of age or otherwise become legally emancipated.
Related Reading:
Can Grandparents Seek Custody Or Visitation Rights In California?
Yes, grandparents can seek custody or visitation rights in California under certain circumstances. As experienced Rancho Cucamonga custody lawyers, we at Family Law Advocacy Group understand that the court considers the child's best interests and existing relationships. Our custody attorneys can help you navigate the legal process to determine if you qualify for custody or visitation and advocate for your rights effectively.
Local Support for Child Custody Matters in Rancho Cucamonga
Living in Rancho Cucamonga, you have access to various local resources that can assist you during your child custody proceedings. Many custody cases are heard in the San Bernardino County Family Court, located near San Bernardino. Understanding the local court system and its procedures can be crucial in navigating your case effectively.
Rancho Cucamonga residents often face unique challenges when dealing with child custody issues. The city's growing population and diverse community mean that each family's situation can be quite different. Whether you're dealing with a demanding work schedule, concerns about your child's education in the local school districts, or the need for a stable home environment, these factors can all play a significant role in your custody case.
Additionally, local government entities such as the San Bernardino County Department of Child Support Services can provide valuable information and support. While we do not partner directly with these entities, knowing their services can help you better understand your rights and responsibilities as a parent.
Our Family Law Advocacy Group team is deeply familiar with the Rancho Cucamonga area and the specific challenges faced by its residents. We understand the importance of maintaining stability for your children, especially regarding their schooling and social environment. By working closely with you, we aim to address these local pain points and help you achieve a custody arrangement that is in your child's best interest.
For those living in Rancho Cucamonga and the surrounding areas, having a knowledgeable child custody attorney who understands the local landscape can make all the difference. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can assist you in securing a fair and favorable custody agreement.
Facing a child custody dispute? Contact Family Law Advocacy Group today at (909) 992-0188 for a free consultation!
Trusted, Respected, & Highly Recommended
At Family Law Advocacy Group, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"They will work until they get the best outcome for your case."They are very caring, compassionate and understanding. Family Law Advocacy Group puts themselves in your shoes. If I could give more than 5 stars I would!- Briana Gastelum
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"Family Law Advocacy Group has been a godsend and I can't thank them enough for all that they've done."I know how difficult it is to find a new attorney to handle such personal matters in your life so I feel fortunate to have engaged them.- J Kim
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"They are very confident attorneys despite the complexity of the case and show up READY!"Family Law Advocacy Group are true professionals! They were quick to prepare on such short notice; organized, punctual and calm under pressure. They have equal amounts of empathy as they do fight.- Sari De La Cerra
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"Family Law Advocacy Group provides some of the best law services around."My attorney is responsive, thorough, and made sure I had complete understanding of my options. And, to those whom are reading this, don't go to court without him. And for those who find themselves at the opposite table of Family Law Advocacy Group, PRAY...- Darrel Gomez
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"I am so grateful to have found someone who takes interest in their clients and cares."Family Law Advocacy Group has some of the few attorneys who are very attentive to detail and what is in the best interest of their clients.- Rachel Bello