Laguna Woods Child Custody Lawyer

As a California family law firm, Cianci Law, PC, has spent years helping parents through their child custody matters. Our Laguna Woods child custody lawyer can help you whether you’re in the process of a divorce or are not married to the father or mother of your child. 

We’ve had years of experience handling different child custody situations and can help you navigate yours. We understand how challenging this time can be for families and always try to make the process easier for all involved while ensuring fairness and that the child’s needs are paramount. With us on your side, you can expect a well-crafted custody plan and representation you can trust.

The Different Types of Custody

If you speak with a Laguna Woods child custody attorney, they will likely tell you that there are primarily two types of custody and that these two types can be further broken down into two more categories. The type of custody decided upon ultimately depends on the best interests of the child. 

The two main types are legal custody and physical custody. Usually, legal custody refers to you having the right and responsibility to make decisions on the important aspects of your child’s life, including surrounding their religion, education, and healthcare. On the other hand, physical custody is what determines where your child will live and how time spent between both parents will be broken up. 

Then the two sub-categories of custody are sole custody and joint custody. Sole custody refers to the decision for one person to be responsible for the child’s rearing. This parent has the authority to make major decisions concerning how a child is brought up. 

In contrast, joint custody refers to the decision for both parents to have the power to make important decisions together, with the child spending an equal amount of time with each parent.

How Are the Best Interests of a Child Defined?

It’s important to learn how the best interests of a child are defined because they are the legal standard California courts use to determine custody arrangements. While not explicitly codified in the California Family Code, the court will take into account the following factors: 

• Who the child’s primary caregiver has been during the marriage
• Which parent is more likely to foster and encourage a healthy relationship between the child and the other parent
• The work schedules of each parent
• The child’s preferences surrounding who they would like to live with or live with most of the time, if the child is old enough
• The mental and physical health of each parent
• Whether or not there is a history of drug or alcohol abuse, or child neglect

Why You Should Hire a Custody Attorney

According to the Judicial Council of California, only about two to four percent of family law cases actually go to trial. This means that most custody matters are resolved through agreement or default, so having a skilled legal representative on your side during negotiation is incredibly important. Additionally, working with an experienced attorney can:

• Reduce stress. Child custody cases can take an immense toll, both physically and emotionally, on parents and children. An attorney usually will handle all aspects of a case so that you can fully devote yourself to caring for your child.
• Save time and money. When you work with a child custody attorney, they can ensure proceedings move smoothly, saving you time and money in the long run.
• Improve your chances of gaining custody. Having an attorney on your side who understands the legalities and has experience improves your chances of gaining custody. They know how to present your case in a positive light and how to showcase you as a favorable option for custody.

Why Choose Us to Fight Your Custody Battles?

Your child custody case will likely feel overwhelming, pressurizing, and emotionally taxing, which is why having an attorney on your side is a worthwhile consideration. At Cianci Law, PC, we have been helping families like yours since 2006. 

Our firm is recognized by Best Lawyers, and we are a part of the Academy of California Adoption-ART Lawyers. We are also BBB accredited and hold an average rating of 10.0 according to Top Lawyer standards. Our firm also boasts years of service to families and a compassionate and personalized approach to every case we agree to take on.

FAQs

What Is the Biggest Mistake in a Custody Battle?

Often, the biggest mistake you can make in a custody battle is putting your personal conflict with your ex above the interests of your child. In Laguna Woods, California, courts focus on the child’s best interests. If they see that you’re actively engaging in conflict with them, it might hurt your custody case.

What Not to Say to a Family Court Judge?

When facing the family court judge, you want to try to avoid emotional outbursts, blaming language, and insults. You also want to try to avoid exaggerating facts, interrupting the judge, or speaking disrespectfully of your ex. If you do any of these things, you risk weakening your reputation in custody decisions.

Who Pays for Child Custody Court?

In California, each parent will pay their own court costs and legal fees. However, there are times when a judge can order one parent to contribute to the other’s legal fees. This is usually only the case when there is a large income difference between parents. The courts do this to ensure both parents have fair access to legal representation.

What Looks Bad in a Custody Battle?

Many things can look bad in a custody battle, but usually, courts view missing visitation, involving a child in adult disputes, disregarding court orders, and failing to communicate as serious offences. If you do any of these things, you can hurt your case because judges want to see consistency, a supportive environment for your child, and responsible cooperation.

Creative Family Solutions – Hire a Custody Lawyer Today

Most people find that having a child custody lawyer in their corner is incredibly helpful. It can make a considerable difference in the outcome of your case since an attorney understands the complexities surrounding child custody laws. If you don’t want to leave your case to chance, contact our attorneys at Cianci Law, PC, today.

Laguna Woods Child Custody Lawyer Reviews