San Diego Child Custody Attorney

 
Helping Families in Del Mar, San Diego, and Throughout California

At Livingstone Law, APC, we are passionate about helping families through some of the most difficult times. Whether you are facing a divorce, are involved in a child support issue, or are facing a child custody dispute, we can help you reach the best possible outcome.

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What Is Child Custody?

In California, child custody refers to the legal decision-making rights of a child. Parents can have sole custody, joint custody, or shared custody. While the terms are often used interchangeably, sole custody refers to one parent having sole decision-making authority over a child, whereas joint custody refers to both parents sharing joint decision-making authority.

Parents can also share joint custody by having the child spend time with both parents. Shared custody refers to both parents having equal decision-making authority. In California, courts typically favor joint custody arrangements, but this is not always the case. The best arrangement for a child depends on the unique facts of each case.

How Does Child Custody Work in California?

Factors Courts Consider When Determining Custody

• the child's needs

• the child's physical, social, and psychological needs

• the parents' abilities to meet the child's needs

• the child's relationship with each parent

• the parents' ability to provide the child with a stable, healthy environment

• whether a parent's decision to move with the child would negatively impact the child's stability and development

• whether the parents agree on custody or how the child should be raised

• whether a parent's abuse of drugs or alcohol would negatively impact the child

• whether either parent is unfit

Courts generally try to make custody arrangements that are in the best interest of the child. Courts will consider the child's needs and the parents' abilities to meet those needs. Courts will also consider the child's relationship with each parent and the parents' ability to provide a stable, healthy environment for the child.

In addition, courts will take into consideration whether a parent's decision to move with the child would negatively impact the child's stability and development. Courts will also consider whether a parent's drug or alcohol abuse would negatively impact the child. Lastly, courts will consider whether a parent is unfit.