Child Custody & Visitation

Vista Child Custody Lawyer

If you are getting a divorce or ending a non-marital relationship that includes a child, you may be most concerned about maintaining a strong relationship with your child. California courts presume it is best for a child to remain in regular contact with both parents unless there is evidence that suggests otherwise. The lawyer you select to represent you will play an important role in the outcome of your child custody and visitation matter.

If you are unable to reach agreement with our child’s other parent, the court will designate physical custody — where the child will spend his or her days and nights — as well as legal custody, which refers to the decision-making authority regarding education, health issues, religion and other important aspects of a child’s life. Often, parents share joint legal custody. A parent who cares for a child more than half of the time is the “primary custodial parent.” A parenting plan spells out in detail the time that each parent will receive with his or her child.

The amount of time that a parent spends with his or her child will impact the amount of child support paid to the primary custodial parent.

At the Law Office of Ralph L. Williams in Vista, we advocate for parents who are getting a divorce or ending a non-marital relationship. We work to help our clients reach an agreement regarding physical custody and legal custody through negotiation. By doing so, you and your child’s other parent retain more control over your parenting plan and what your relationship with your child will be.

What Happens If A Custody Agreement Cannot Be Reached Out Of Court

However, not every couple is able to reach agreement on a parenting plan outside of court. If this occurs, the court may require that you and your child’s other parent attend mediation in attempt to reach a resolution. If that fails, we will advocate aggressively for you in court.

The court will consider what is in the best interests of the child. California law states that a court’s primary concern should be the health, safety and welfare of a child. The court considers these additional factors when determining custody:

  • The level of involvement of each parent before the relationship ended
  • The child’s schedule and extracurricular activities
  • The distance between the parents’ homes and school
  • The child’s wishes if he or she is deemed old enough and mature enough
  • Whether either parent has a record of substance abuse, physical abuse or illegal drug use

Meet With Our Experienced Vista Child Custody Attorney

Contact us to schedule a free 30-minute consultation. We will answer your family law questions and provide a candid assessment of your situation. We can also assist you if you need to modify an original child custody order. Call  760-726-3540. Our office is located across from Vista Court house, take Easement road off the East side of So. Melrose Drive at traffic signal opposite Starbuck and on same side of street as Jack In the Box and Petco.

Free Consultation

If you have questions regarding family law or bankruptcy, contact the Law Office of Ralph L. Williams for a free 30-minute consultation.

We can be reached at 760-726-3540 or through our convenient online contact form.

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