Brea Child Custody Lawyer2023-12-13T11:45:01+00:00

Child custody is often one of the most complicated areas of family law. In most cases, child custody decisions come along with divorces. This means that parents are already going through a difficult, emotional time in addition to having to come to agreements on what’s best for their children. Because determining child custody is important for both the children and the parents involved, it is in your best interest to work with an experienced family law attorney that you can trust to help you through your case.

The Dorie A. Rogers, APC: Expert Child Custody Assistance

At The Dorie A. Rogers, APC, we are committed to helping families through difficult times. That is why we have spent years offering professional, compassionate family law services to individuals across California. We have handled hundreds of tough cases and assisted families through challenging matters, including complex child custody cases. If you are looking for a family lawyer in Brea, CA, The Dorie A. Rogers, APC, is here for you.

Child Custody in California

Child custody is the legal term used to describe the responsibilities and rights that parents hold regarding their children. There are two main kinds of child custody in California:

Physical Custody

Physical custody determines where the children are physically staying and who they are staying with. There are two forms of physical custody:

  1. Joint Physical Custody: Joint physical custody is an agreement that allows children to live with both of their parents. If joint physical custody is approved, it does not mean that children must spend an equal amount of time at each parent’s house. Instead, it means that both parents have joint and equal rights to allow their children to stay with them when it is mutually agreed upon. For example, many parents have their children live with their mother during the school year and with their father in the summer. Others have their children go to their father’s each weekend and stay at their mother’s during the week.
  2. Sole Physical Custody: Sole physical custody occurs when one parent is given sole, or primary, custody of the children. The parent with sole physical custody has the children living with them full-time, while the other parent may be granted visitation rights. For example, in many child custody cases with disputes, the non-custodial parent is granted visitation rights according to a schedule that the court determines. This way, conflicts are avoided, and each parent can still see their children. If a parent is granted sole custody, this means that the noncustodial parent will be required to make child support payments.

Legal Custody

Legal custody is the right of a parent to be able to make important decisions for their children about their healthcare, welfare, and education. Legal custody also allows parents to make decisions on matters such as schooling, religious activities, mental and physical health matters, travel, sports, residencies, and more. There are two forms of legal custody:

  1. Joint Legal Custody: Joint legal custody grants both parents equal rights to make decisions on behalf of their children while keeping their best interests in mind. In California, one parent does not have to legally ask the other parent when deciding if they have joint legal custody. This means that both parents don’t have to agree to every decision made, but they should try to ensure the decision is best for their child.
  2. Sole Legal Custody: If sole legal custody is granted to one parent, this means that they have the sole right and responsibility to make these important decisions for their children. If a parent has sole legal custody, they do not need to consult the other parent when making decisions involving their children’s welfare.

How Is Child Custody Determined?

Child custody in California is determined according to “the best interests of the child.” This means that no matter what each parent may be fighting for, a judge can make the ultimate decision that they think is best for the children involved. The judge will take into consideration factors such as:

  • The child’s age
  • The child’s health
  • Emotional ties to parents
  • Ability of parents to care for the child
  • History of abuse in the family
  • Emotional ties to living situations

Family Law FAQs

Q: Can You Decide Alone When You Share Legal Custody of the Children in California?
A:
Yes. Even when legal custody is shared, each parent is allowed to make decisions without consulting the other if it is for the best of the child. It is not always the best option, though, as it can result in court disputes. It is ideal to discuss major decisions with the other parent, as it will greatly reduce the potential for conflict.

Q: Can You Fight a Custody Decision in California?
A:
Final custody decisions can be appealed. If possible, both parents can come to an agreement and request a change to their order. When just one parent is trying to fight a decision, they can request an appeal. It is always best to consult an expert family law attorney if you are appealing a custody decision.

Q: What Do Judges Look at in Child Custody Cases?
A:
It is the job of the judge and the parents in a child custody case to always keep the best interests of the children in mind. They will look at the child’s age, health, relationship with the parents, and emotional ties to their living situations. They will also examine the parents’ ability to care for the child and whether they have any substance abuse issues.

Q: Can You Claim Legal Aid for a Child Custody Lawyer?
A:
California does offer some forms of legal aid, but it is often difficult to receive. There are several public agencies and private organizations that offer legal aid for people in need, for example, mothers in difficult child custody cases. Legal aid can range from attorney referral to full representation in court proceedings.

The Dorie A. Rogers, APC: Your Brea Child Custody Attorney

Child custody cases are never easy. That is why we are committed to helping our clients through hard times. If you are dealing with a difficult child custody case in Brea, California, do not wait to see how our team at The Dorie A. Rogers, APC, may be able to help you. To learn more about our child custody and family law services, contact us today.

Reviews Quotes
“Dorie is a very powerful attorney and a great asset to have on your side in any family legal matter. She is extremely bright and insightful, and I got everything I asked for in my lawsuit.”
Brit B.
“I would strongly recommend Ms. Dorie Rogers for any legal needs. During my Divorce proceedings, Dorie’s professionalism, expertise in Divorce Law and legal skill helped bring my case to a close in both a timely and mutually agreeable manner.

Additionally, Dorie took the time to understand me and my background to better represent me in my case. She showed a level of caring and concern that helped me through a very difficult time. She is an outstanding lawyer and wonderful person.”

Alan M. Greenberg
“Second to none – I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Dorie to anyone. She was my attorney for my divorce and custody case. She will do everything it takes to get the job done and all with a smile on her face. Her knowledge and expertise will assist anyone in a family law situation get the results they want.”
Todd M.

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