Child Custody Attorney in Santa Ana, CA

A divorce can change your family dynamic in significant ways, so it’s important to keep things stable for your child. California parents looking for ways to see their children consistently as the household structure changes can rely on a Santa Ana child custody lawyer to help them through this tough time.

The Goldberg Legal Group Is Here for You

Look no further than The Goldberg Legal Group for a Santa Ana child custody attorney who can help you make decisions that encourage stability and keep your kids safe and happy. In California, courts focus on the best interests of the child, and for over 18 years, our team has helped parents reach fair arrangements that last for years.

Child Custody Cases in California

Many parents may feel nervous about going to court, but having facts about family law matters can help you feel more at ease. Most cases do not end in a big fight, especially as the legal system moves more toward balance. Consider the following:

• High settlement rates. You might think you have to go to trial, but actually, about 90% of parents settle their child custody case without a judge making the final choice.
• Success with lawyers. Having professional help works, with research indicating that parents reach a faster settlement when they have legal aid.
• Joint physical custody. More parents are sharing time, with joint custody becoming the norm, representing 10 to 30% of custody arrangements in Western countries, like the United States.

Understanding California Child Custody Laws

California focuses on joint physical custody, meaning that judges want children to spend as much time as they can with both parents. There are two forms of child custody:

• Legal custody. This concerns major choices like your child’s school, activities, and medical care. For example, parents with legal custody can decide together if they want their child to attend Red Hill Elementary School on Red Hill Avenue in Santa Ana.
• Physical custody. Physical custody dictates a child’s primary residence as well as the visitation schedule for when they will stay with their noncustodial parent.

Each type of custody can be joint or sole. Judges only limit visits if a parent and their environment aren’t safe for the child. Otherwise, they want both parents involved, as having children in healthy co-parenting situations results in more positive psychological outcomes.

Stability During Your Santa Ana Child Custody Case

Stability is the most important thing for a child during a custody case. Judges in Santa Ana want to see that the child’s life will not change too much, so if you keep a steady routine, your child custody case may go more smoothly. Be sure to do the following:

• Keep routines. Try to keep bedtimes and school schedules the same.
• Stay local. Moving far away during a custody case can complicate things, as it can alter the settlement you and your co-parent reach regarding physical arrangements. Also, physical distance can impair your child’s relationship with the other parent.
• Maintain documentation. Keep a calendar of your visitation days to show the court that you are consistent.

Modifying an Existing Custody Order

Life changes, and sometimes your court order needs to change with it. This is called getting a custody modification. You might need a change if you have a new work schedule, your child’s school needs are different, or if you or your child’s other parent is moving away.

A Santa Ana child custody attorney can file the paperwork to request a modification of the custody order from the court. It’s better to have a judge order the change in the custody arrangement to avoid disputes.

Hire a Child Custody Lawyer in Santa Ana

It is normal to worry about the future when going through a custody battle, but if you hire a child custody lawyer, they can provide the answers to any questions you may have. The right time to hire an attorney is before you open the custody case, or as soon as you discover your co-parent is pursuing custody. With an attorney’s guidance, you can follow the local rules right from the start, which can prevent problems later.

A Santa Ana child custody attorney knows how to negotiate fairly while prioritizing your child. Plus, they can support you when discussions about custody get emotional and keep the focus on your child’s needs.

FAQs About Child Custody in Santa Ana, CA

What if I Can’t Afford an Attorney for My Child Custody Case?

If you can’t afford an attorney for your child custody case because you have a low income or for other reasons, you have options. Many firms offer payment plans, and if the other parent makes much more money, the court might order them to help during the divorce. This keeps the case fair for both sides.

Does California Favor 50/50 Child Custody?

Yes, California does favor 50/50 child custody. The court operates under the belief that shared time between parents and children is the most healthy option in most cases. Typically, the only way to change a 50/50 custody settlement is with evidence that demonstrates that one parent is abusive, neglectful, or otherwise unfit.

Do I Have to Pay Child Support if I Have 50/50 Custody in California?

Whether you have to pay child support if you have 50/50 custody in California can depend on time and income. If you earn a significant amount of money more than your child’s other parent, you may still have to pay support. This is to keep the child’s lifestyle similar in both homes.

Who Claims the Child on Taxes in a 50/50 Custody Agreement?

Only one parent can claim the child on taxes in a 50/50 custody agreement. Parents can benefit from making an arrangement to trade years or have one parent take even years, and the other take odd years. Your Santa Ana lawyer can put this in your custody agreement so you have proof.

Get the Time and a Relationship With Your Child You Deserve

Your relationship with your child is worth protecting. Protect it the right way with the help of a Santa Ana child custody lawyer who can guide you through child custody laws and your case.

A good plan today can mean a happy child tomorrow. Contact The Goldberg Legal Group to move forward with confidence.