Best Interests of the Child: California Custody Cases

Presented by a Roseville Child Custody Attorney

Child custody is often one of the most contentious and difficult issues for parents going through a California divorce. Disputes over child custody often wind up in family courts where they are hotly contested between both parties resulting in a final determination by the judge. Understanding the basics of what is involved in a court's decision concerning this issue is essential in fighting for your parental rights.

It is also essential to engage the services of an attorney you can trust to pursue your interests with vigor. That can be accomplished in Roseville at the Law Offices of Frank F. Ali. Our firm provides knowledgeable and dedicated legal representation in all divorce and family law matters. Our Roseville child custody lawyer has helped countless clients throughout the area in fighting for the legal rights and benefits to which they are entitled under California law.

Child Custody in California

When parents divorce, child custody must be determined. In California, as in other states, the issue is based on the doctrine of what is in the best interests of the child. That term does not have a specific definition under California law. Generally, it means that the court will look at various factors in the child's environment and circumstances to decide how certain actions and orders will be made as well as who is most suitable to care for the child. These circumstances may be ascertained by the Court through social workers, court advisors, and other professionals who will conduct investigations into the home environments of both parents and how these environments will affect the child's safety, wellbeing, and future.

The Court will look at such factors as:

• The stability of either parental environment
• How closely the child is linked to friends, school, and other activities in the community
• Who has served as primary caregiver of the child
• What the child's preference is as to living arrangements (if old enough to have a valid opinion)
• What effect any major change will have on the child
• The specific needs of the child, including educational and emotional
• The ability of each parent to provide a stable environment and to care for the child
• Other relevant factors

Once these are determined, custody and visitation orders can be made. These orders may involve joint legal custody, joint physical custody, or sole custody.

Get the Legal Help You Need in Roseville

If you have concerns about any child custody matter, contact us to arrange for a consultation to get the knowledgeable answers and legal support you need today.