Carlsbad Child Custody Attorney

Trusted Family Law Guidance in San Diego County

At the Carson Law Group, our Carlsbad family lawyer understands that child custody is often the most complicated and emotional aspect of any divorce. This is because both parents want to ensure that their children are properly cared for without sacrificing their own time with them.

What often results is a long and difficult battle in which stress and frustration are prevalent. Our job is to ensure that child custody negotiations are as easy as possible and result in a favorable resolution.

In California, as in most states, a judge will place the highest priority on the best interest of the child, not on the wishes or emotional needs of the parent. It is the general consensus that children will benefit most by equal time spent with each parent, which typically results in a joint custody arrangement.

However, there are certain elements that may break the status quo of a circumstance and result in a judge awarding sole custody to one parent over another.

Key Factors Influencing Child Custody Decisions

Other factors that might be considered in a custody arrangement include:

• The child’s age and health
• The relationship the child has with each parent
• Who has previously been the primary care-giver
• The amount of time each parent has previously spent with children
• Any history of domestic violence
• Alcohol or drug use
• Environmental factors regarding how each parent lives
• The ability of each parent to provide for the child
• The child’s own wishes

Exploring The Two Types of Custody

There are two types of custody in California - legal custody and physical custody.

Legal custody involves a parent's right to make decisions regarding a child's:

• Medical treatment
• Education
• And upbringing

Physical custody involves a parent's right to spend time with their child.

Additionally, if one parent is planning on moving away after a divorce is finalized, the distance between the child’s current home and the parent’s new location will be considered. If the judge believes that the move will significantly and negatively impact a child’s status quo, relationships, education, and community involvement, the move may affect that parent’s eligibility for custody.

Types of Child Custody Cases We Handle

At the Carson Law Group, our attorneys can represent you in a variety of child custody matters, including:

• Joint and sole physical custody
• Joint and sole legal custody
• Visitation rights
• Child custody modifications
• Parental relocation
• Parenting plans
• Child support modifications and enforcement

While California courts generally consider joint legal custody to be in the best interests of children, a strong case presented by one party can override this and ensure a custody arrangement that protects the child's well-being.

If you feel that your ex-spouse’s new circumstances do not align with your children’s best interests, we will go to work for you.

Our custody attorney in Carlsbad will compile evidence via medical records, financial statements, and witness testimony regarding any existing abuse, alcohol use, health problems, or monetary issues that can act as evidence that custody for your ex-spouse would violate your children’s status quo or well-being.

Navigating Your Custody Case

• Introducing a new significant other to your children
• Refusing contact of the other spouse to your children
• Verbal altercations with your children or the other parent
• Physical abuse of your children or the other parent
• Failing to maintain scheduled parental responsibilities, including payments, traveling with your children without informing the other parent or removing your children from their scheduled activities
• Damaging property belonging to the other parent

Who Pays Court Fees in Custody Cases?

Generally, each party is responsible for paying their respective portion of court fees; however, there may be exceptions for low income parties and high income parties.

Contact Our Carlsbad Child Custody Lawyer Today

Ultimately, you and your children are our top priority. Our Carlsbad custody attorney will fight for your rights as a parent while ensuring that your children have the best chance at a happy and thriving future.

We will use our years of experience and compassionate service to provide legal solutions that can protect the interests of you and your children. Janet L. Carson is fully committed to mitigating the negative impact that a divorce can have on your family.

Contact us online to schedule a consultation with our skilled child custody attorney and let us get to work for you! Call 760-263-6915 today!