Child Custody & Visitation

Newport Beach Child Custody Lawyers

Child Custody Laws in California

At Kovach Family Law, our experienced Newport Beach child custody attorneys provide highly competent and compassionate legal representation to our clients in child custody matters. We understand that these cases can be difficult, which is why we work directly with our clients to understand their goals and develop personalized strategies tailored to their unique situations. 

We are highly knowledgeable about the laws and regulations related to child custody in California and can provide you with the legal advice and representation you need to protect your family’s rights. To learn more, please reach out to our firm today and request a complimentary consultation.

You can reach us online or by phone at (949) 512-7287. 

Key Aspects of Child Custody Explained

Child custody is when a parent or guardian has the legal right to make decisions about a child's life. This includes decisions about a child's education, health care, schooling, religious upbringing, and other important matters. When parents are unable to agree on a custody arrangement, the court may intervene and decide who will be responsible for making these important decisions. 

The court can award joint custody or sole custody, depending on the circumstances. The court will always rule in favor of what it deems to be the “best interests of the child.” Often, this means having both parents remain present in the child’s life. 

There are several different types of child custody in California: 

  • Legal Custody: Legal custody allows one or both parents to make decisions about their child's future, such as their education, health care, and religious upbringing.
  • Physical Custody: Physical custody involves making decisions about a child's day-to-day living arrangements and who will be responsible for caring for them on a regular basis.
  • Sole Custody: Sole child custody means only one parent is responsible for taking care of the child, physically and otherwise. 
  • Joint Custody: Joint child custody means that both parents take care of the child, physically and/or legally. 

The court may award any combination of child custody arrangements, such as sole physical custody and limited joint legal custody, joint physical and legal custody, or even sole physical and legal custody. Sole custody is the rarest form of child custody awarded by the court; in most cases, the court considers involvement by both parents in the child’s life to be in the child’s best interests. 

Commonly Asked Questions

How can I modify an existing child custody arrangement in California?

To modify an existing child custody arrangement in California, you must demonstrate a significant change in circumstances since the original order was made. This could include changes in employment, health, or the child's needs. You will need to submit a request to the court. It's advisable to work with a knowledgeable attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and present your case effectively. The court will review the evidence and determine whether the modification serves the best interests of the child.

What should I expect during a child custody consultation in Newport Beach?

During a child custody consultation in Newport Beach, you can expect to discuss your specific situation and concerns with an attorney in detail. The attorney may ask questions about your family dynamics, the child's needs, and any previous custody arrangements. They can also provide you with an overview of California's child custody laws and explain the potential outcomes based on your circumstances. This initial meeting is an opportunity for you to ask questions and understand the legal process, as well as to determine if the attorney is the right fit for your needs.

How Is Child Custody Determined? 

In California, when deciding who will take care of a child, the court looks at many things. It considers the parents' relationships with the child, their ability to provide for the child's needs, and other factors, such as any history of abuse or neglect. The court also considers what is in the best interests of the child. 

In deciding what is in the best interests of the child, the court will look at things like: 

  • The emotional ties between each parent and the child
  • The ability of each parent to provide stability and continuity in the child's life
  • Whether either parent has a history of physical or mental abuse
  • The physical and emotional needs of the child
  • The mental and physical health of each parent
  • Any involvement with drugs or alcohol that could affect parenting abilities
  • Each parents' willingness to foster a close relationship between the other parent and the child 
  • The preference of the child, if old enough to express an opinion
  • The child's cultural background 
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How Our Child Custody Attorneys Can Help 

Whether you are seeking to establish a child custody arrangement or modify an existing one, our Newport Beach child custody attorneys can work closely with you to ensure that your best interests and the best interests of your child are protected. We can also provide you with the personalized advice and guidance you need to navigate the legal process and work toward the best possible outcome.

We have helped clients with all types of child custody matters, including but not limited to: 

  • Sole custody
  • Joint custody
  • Visitation 
  • Fathers’ rights
  • Grandparents’ rights
  • Enforcements
  • Modification requests

We understand that these cases can be emotionally charged, and we strive to provide our clients with the compassion and understanding they need to get through the process.

If you need experienced legal representation in a child custody matter, contact Kovach Family Law today. We are here to help you protect your rights and the best interests of your child.

Call (949) 512-7287 or contact us online to request a free and confidential consultation.

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