Child Custody Attorney in Newport, CA
Whether you’re going through a divorce or are looking to establish your custody rights as a coparent outside of a marriage, it’s crucial that you work with an experienced Newport Beach child custody lawyer who can help you understand your rights and the legal options available to you. Child custody cases in California are often contentious, making it imperative that you have legal counsel on your side who can advocate for both you and your child.
The Goldberg Legal Group Can Help
At The Goldberg Legal Group, our experienced Newport Beach family law attorneys have been serving residents across Orange County for over 18 years. Our team understands how complex and emotional child custody cases can become, which is why we work tirelessly to protect the rights and futures of families around the state. We can use our comprehensive legal knowledge, strong negotiation skills, and extensive resources to help you find a solution to your case.
An Overview of Child Custody in California
Of the 66 million cases handled in courts across America, nearly 3.8 million involve family law and custody cases. In the Golden State, both parents are entitled to pursue custody of their child under Family Code § 3040. This means that, regardless of your past involvement or presence in the child’s life, you have the legal right to seek custody under California law. This also means that you can pursue custody rights even when you and the child’s other parent aren’t married.
Understanding Legal and Physical Custody in Newport Beach
California family courts divide custody into two main categories, known as legal and physical custody. From there, your local Orange County judge will make decisions on whether each type of custody will be shared between parents or given to only one. Legal and physical custody involve:
- Legal Custody
When a parent has legal custody over their child, it means that they are legally entitled to make the final decision about significant aspects of the child’s life, such as where they will go to school, how their health will be approached, and whether or not they will be raised in a certain religious practice.Legal custody can be bestowed on either one or both parents through sole or joint custody. Sole legal custody in Orange County gives only one parent the sole right to make these decisions, while joint custody allows both parents to be entitled to that right. Most family court systems favor joint custody, but in more complex cases, sole legal custody may prove to be more beneficial for the welfare of the child. - Physical Custody
Physical custody addresses where your child will live. Once again, custody can be granted to one or both parents depending on what they agree upon or, in more complex cases, what the court decides is in the best interest of the child. When custody is shared, parents will have to create a parenting plan that outlines when and how time with the children will be shared. If one parent has sole custody in Orange County, they have the sole right to have their child live with them.To ensure the best interests of your child are prioritized throughout your case, you should hire an experienced child custody lawyer from The Goldberg Legal Group.
Hire a Child Custody Lawyer in Newport Beach
Every child custody case in Newport Beach comes with a myriad of legal matters to address. To ensure you fill out and file forms correctly, meet deadlines, and advocate for your child the way they deserve, it’s important to hire an experienced family lawyer. A skilled child custody lawyer from The Goldberg Legal Group has insight into how local family courts operate as well as extensive legal knowledge that can be leveraged to your advantage.
When both you and your child’s future are at stake, you can trust the team at The Goldberg Legal Group to fight for solutions that help you feel comfortable and confident about your future.
FAQs About Child Custody in Newport Beach, CA
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Child Custody Lawyer in Newport Beach?
In Newport Beach, the cost of hiring a child custody lawyer tends to vary case by case. This is mainly due to the unique influence that certain variables may have on your overall cost, such as who you hire to represent you, the amount of time needed to finalize the custody court order, and/or the level of complexity your case presents. Still, hiring a lawyer can give you an advantage, and walking away with the right custody agreement can be worth every penny spent.
What Should I Avoid Doing While in a Custody Battle in Newport Beach?
Custody cases in Newport Beach typically go better when you avoid poor behavioral patterns. Choosing not to badmouth your former partner, refusing to lose your temper, and telling the truth at all times can all prove incredibly beneficial for your case, as it shows the judge your true character and the maturity you possess. This may increase the likelihood that they rule in your favor when finalizing the custody agreement, but other factors may also influence the outcome.
Can I Represent Myself in a Custody Case in Newport Beach?
While it is legal to represent yourself in your custody case in the state of California, many individuals and professionals will implore you otherwise. Working with a skilled family lawyer ensures both you and your child’s rights are heard and protected. They can advocate for you during negotiations, represent you in court, and fight to reach your desired outcome. Your lawyer can also offer you insight, advice, and guidance as you navigate complex proceedings.
What Kind of Evidence Can Be Used in a Custody Case in Newport Beach?
In the state of California, character statements, testimonies, financial statements, medical records, and criminal records are all examples of the different kinds of evidence a person may present when pleading their case in a custody trial. It is common for evidence to vary based on the circumstances surrounding the custody case. For example, one parent may use evidence of the other parent’s substance abuse to prove they are not fit for physical custody.
Your Trusted Newport Child Custody Lawyers
Contact The Goldberg Legal Group today to schedule a consultation and see how we can help you build the future you want for your family. Our team stands ready to advocate for you.
