Roseville Child Custody Attorney

There is no getting around the fact that child custody disputes are a very difficult time for children. We understand your children mean the world to you. The most important thing you can do for your children is to be there for them and ease their stress as much as possible before, during and after the child custody dispute.

To ease your own legal burdens and stress while doing what is necessary for a successful resolution, it is important that you seek the advice of the experienced child custody and support attorneys at McCoy Fatula, APC, in Roseville. We have dedicated our practice to helping parents find solutions that will protect their rights and meet the unique needs of their children.

Please call  916-888-1314 now to schedule your consultation with one of our lawyers.

A Law Practice Focused On Benefiting Families

While we are strong trial attorneys, we have found that, where possible, it is best for parents to reach an agreement amicably.

In almost all situations, this means that parents have joint physical and joint legal custody.

• Physical custody pertains to where the children will live.
• Legal custody covers issues such as the child’s schooling, mental and physical well-being and religious upbringing.

In rare cases, sole custody can be obtained, but this typically requires one parent to actually be a danger to the child. It is more common for a court to grant physical custody to one parent with the other parent receiving visitation rights to make sure he or she is still involved in the child’s life.

Creative Solutions For Custody And Visitation Problems

When it comes to visitation schedules, we have often found that creative solutions are preferable to highly contentious litigation. That is why we will work within your goals and circumstances to find resolutions that everyone can live with.

How Is Custody Determined In California?

In California, child custody decisions are guided by what serves the best interests of the child. Courts evaluate a range of factors to ensure the child’s health, safety and welfare are prioritized. Examples of what courts evaluate include:

• The age and health of the child
• The emotional bond between the child and each parent
• Each parent’s ability to care for the child, including providing a stable home environment
• Any history of domestic violence or substance abuse
• The child’s ties to school, home and community
• Each parent’s willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent

These considerations help the court craft a custody arrangement that promotes the child’s long-term well-being and emotional development.

What Types Of Custody Arrangements Are Available In California?

California recognizes legal and physical custody, which may be awarded jointly or solely depending on the specific circumstances of the case.

• Legal custody refers to the right to make important decisions about the child’s education, health care and general welfare
• Physical custody determines where the child lives and which parent provides day-to-day care
• Joint legal custody allows both parents to share decision-making responsibilities
• Sole legal custody grants one parent exclusive authority over major decisions
• Joint physical custody means the child spends significant time with both parents, though not necessarily equally
• Sole physical custody places the child primarily with one parent, while the other may have visitation rights

Each arrangement is tailored to the family’s unique situation, with the goal of fostering a stable and supportive environment for the child.

Can A Parent Request A Child Custody Modification Following A Change In Circumstance?

Yes, a parent may request a modification to an existing custody order if there has been a significant change in circumstances. California courts approve custody modifications when doing so would serve the child’s best interests. A change in circumstances can involve:

• A parent’s relocation or change in work schedule
• A shift in the child’s educational or emotional needs
• Evidence of neglect, abuse or failure to comply with the current order
• The child’s preference, depending on age and maturity

To initiate a modification, the requesting parent must demonstrate that the change is substantial and that the proposed adjustment would benefit the child. Courts assess each request carefully to help ensure the child’s stability and safety remain the top priority.

When Life Changes, We’re Here To Get You The Court Order You Need

Please contact our Roseville, California, lawyers about your child custody or support case today to arrange a consultation. We will inform you of your rights and begin building a strategy tailored to the needs of your children.