Child Custody

Parents Cannot Move Children Outside of California to Influence Custody Decisions

Child custody disputes are among the most contentious family court cases. Parents dispute custody terms for many reasons. One parent may genuinely believe their child would benefit more from their sole custody and care. On the other hand, a parent may dispute custody to hurt their ex-partner or to gain leverage in property distribution and… read more

California Custody Laws for Unmarried Parents

Custody of a child refers to a person’s right to make decisions for a child (i.e., legal custody) and decide where the child lives (i.e., physical custody). A mother typically has custody of the child after giving birth unless a court intervenes and modifies custody. However, a father does not automatically have custody of their… read more

What Are Guardian Ad Litems and Minor’s Counsel?

When parents are involved in a custody battle, a child under 18 can find themselves in a challenging and uncertain situation. With both parents at odds and potentially biased by personal interests or concerns about child support, the child’s well-being may be at risk. In California, family law provides two important roles to ensure the… read more

Child Custody Issues on Halloween

Halloween is often overlooked as parents negotiate a parenting plan and time-sharing agreement because most parents focus on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and birthdays. However, Halloween is a favorite holiday for most kids. It is great fun to dress up and go trick-or-treating. Parents do not want to miss out on these special events. Unfortunately, if you… read more

Marijuana and Child Custody – Can I Still Smoke Weed?

With marijuana now legal in California, many parents involved in custody battles are left wondering: How does cannabis use affect parental rights? This question is especially relevant in places like San Diego, where lifestyle choices and legal standards intersect. A San Diego child custody attorney can help clarify how marijuana use might impact your custody… read more

When Are Drug Tests Used in Child Custody Cases?

Child custody cases have the potential to be dramatic. Though unlikely, there is the potential for drug tests to be used to prove a parent is unfit for custody. There is an argument to be made that a parent who uses alcohol or drugs is unfit to take care of his or her child. A… read more

Who Gets Custody When Parents Aren’t Married?

When we discuss child custody, we often do so in relation to a divorce or legal separation. However, parents do not always get married. They may have one or more children while remaining unmarried. Child custody can be more challenging for non-married couples who decide to end their relationship. Depending on the circumstances surrounding a… read more

Can I Move Out of State With Joint Custody?

Child custody is perhaps the most contentious issue in all of family law. Child custody issues, coupled with the related issue of child support, can greatly complicate a divorce by restricting your freedom of action. Moving out of state when you have joint custody of your children is not something you should do on impulse…. read more

Best Things To Do In San Diego With Kids

Once nicknamed America’s finest city, San Diego has long been considered a great place to raise kids. The city has earned this reputation for several reasons. One has to do with its lack of criminal activity. San Diego has one of the lowest violent crime rates among large U.S. cities, falling at just 4.4 per… read more

Can I Take My Children to the New Children’s Museum on Days I Have Custody?

Parents searching for something to do with their children on days they have custody may want to consider the New Children’s Museum in downtown San Diego, CA. The museum is open all week except for Tuesdays. It is a place for kids to think, play, and create. With an art-based theme, the New Children’s Museum… read more