California law recognizes different types of custody arrangements. The courts consider what is in the best interest of the child, which includes maintaining stability, ensuring safety, and fostering healthy relationships with both parents whenever possible.
Protecting Your Parental Rights & Your Child’s Best Interests
Child custody cases are among the most emotionally charged and legally complex issues in family law. Whether you are seeking sole custody, joint custody, or a modification of an existing custody order, The Law Office of Luna Stevenson is here to guide you through the process with compassion and aggressive legal representation.
As a dedicated California child custody lawyer, Luna Stevenson fights to protect your rights as a parent while prioritizing the well-being and best interests of your child.
Types of Child Custody in California
Legal Custody
Legal custody determines who has the right to make major decisions about a child’s upbringing, including:
- Education – Choosing schools, tutors, and extracurricular activities
- Healthcare – Medical decisions, therapy, and counseling
- Religious Upbringing – Deciding the child’s participation in religious practices
Legal custody can be:
- Joint Legal Custody – Both parents share decision-making responsibilities.
- Sole Legal Custody – Only one parent has the authority to make key decisions.
Visitation Rights
When one parent is granted sole physical custody, the other parent may receive a visitation schedule to maintain their relationship with the child.
Common visitation arrangements include:
- Supervised Visitation – Required when the court determines the child’s safety may be at risk.
- Unsupervised Visitation – The noncustodial parent can spend time with the child without supervision.
- Holiday & Vacation Schedules – Establishing fair time-sharing for holidays, summer breaks, and special occasions, such as birthdays.
How California Courts Decide Child Custody
The best interests of the child are the top priority in any custody determination. Courts evaluate several factors, including:
- Parental Stability – Each parent’s ability to provide a stable home.
- Emotional & Physical Well-being – The child’s health, safety, and emotional needs.
- Parental Involvement – Each parent’s history of caregiving and bonding with the child.
- History of Domestic Violence or Substance Abuse – Courts will prioritize the child’s safety.
- Child’s Preference – If the child is old enough (usually 14+ years), their preference will be considered.
Our firm will work diligently to gather evidence, present strong arguments, and advocate for a custody arrangement that benefits your child and protects your parental rights.
Modifying a Custody Order in California
Circumstances change, and sometimes a custody modification is necessary. Courts allow modifications when there is a significant change in circumstances, such as:
- One parent relocating
- A change in the child’s educational or medical needs
- Allegations of neglect, abuse, or endangerment
- A parent’s failure to follow the current custody order
If you need to modify your existing custody arrangement, our team will help you present a strong case to the court.
Emergency Custody Orders (Temporary Custody)
In urgent situations, a parent may request an emergency custody order to protect a child from:
- Domestic violence
- Substance abuse
- Child neglect or endangerment
Emergency custody orders require immediate court action. If you believe your child is at risk, we can help you file for emergency custody and take swift legal action.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
About Child Custody in California
Do courts favor mothers over fathers in custody cases?
No. California law does not favor one parent over the other based on gender. The court evaluates both parents equally and decides based on the child’s best interests.
Can my child decide which parent they want to live with?
In California, children may express a preference, but the court makes the final decision based on what’s best for the child.
Can custody orders be changed?
Yes. If there has been a significant change in circumstances, you may request a custody modification.
What if the other parent is violating the custody order?
If a parent fails to comply with a court-ordered custody agreement, we can help you file for enforcement to protect your rights and your child’s well-being.
If you’re faced with a child custody issue, it is imperative to seek assistance from a child custody lawyer well-versed in understanding the intricacies of your individual circumstances. With years of experience representing moms and dads in family law matters, our team recognizes the inherent challenges clients often encounter when navigating custody cases. We are dedicated to advocating for you and providing informed guidance on your rights, ensuring the best possible outcome for both you and your children.
Child custody disputes can be emotionally charged and legally complex. Whether you are fighting for sole custody, joint custody, or a parenting plan modification, we will advocate for you and ensure the best interests of your child are upheld.
Why Choose The Law Office of Luna Stevenson?
At The Law Office of Luna Stevenson, we understand that nothing is more important than your child’s future. We offer:
Compassionate Guidance.
We understand the emotional stress of custody battles and are here to support you every step of the way.
01
Aggressive Legal Advocacy.
We fight for your rights and work toward achieving the best possible custody arrangement.
02
Tailored Legal Strategies.
Every family is unique, and we customize our approach to fit your specific situation.
03
Bilingual Legal Support (Mandarin & English).
We proudly assist Mandarin-speaking clients for clear, effective communication.
