The prospect of arranging child custody can feel like facing down the end of the world. For many parents, a substantial change in their time with their child can feel like the end of their world. Anxieties during a custody battle run rampant. What if you get the worse end of the child custody deal? What if your child grows distant from you? What if you lose out on the essential moments of their childhood or they come to prefer a step-parent over you or a million other worries?
If these types of anxieties resonate with you, you could use the help of our Moreno Valley custody lawyers. The Grey Legal Group has three decades of experience helping to fight for advantageous custody arrangements, and we can help you arrange what’s best for your family. Reach out to schedule an initial consultation with a member of our team and discover how we can advocate for you as a parent.
Child Custody Terminology
When it comes to arranging child custody, a judge always endeavors to make decisions that will serve the best interest of the child. Traditionally, it is seen as in the best interest of the child to have access to both parents, as it is believed to facilitate healthy development throughout childhood. However, it is sometimes determined that it’s better for a child if they are kept separate from a parent, particularly if the parent is abusive or has a debilitating mental illness or substance abuse issue.
Custody, therefore, can be broken down in many ways, with some arrangements that are perfectly equal and others where one parent retains sole responsibility for the child. When arranging child custody, here are a few basic definitions you should understand:
- Legal custody is when a parent assumes responsibilities for the child including caregiving, enrolling them in school, deciding on healthcare matters, and so on. More than one person can have legal custody of a child.
- Physical custody refers to the parent with whom the child lives and who is assuming physical responsibility.
- Joint custody is when two parents share legal and physical custody of the child. Joint custody can be arranged evenly or one parent might have a greater level of custody, such as if one parent only gets the kids every other weekend.
Criteria For Child Custody In California
In order to decide what exactly is in the best interest of the child, the courts will ask many questions to determine the ideal custody dynamics. Questions might address issues such:
- Primary caregiver: Who has taken the most responsibility for the child, such as taking them to school or cooking for them? Who has more time to dedicate to the care of the child?
- Financial status: Who has the most money to contribute toward raising the child? Who can provide the more advantageous lifestyle?
- Child preference: If a child is old enough, they can express a preference for one arrangement over another.
- Stability: What arrangement will cause the least disruption in the life of the child?
- Safety: Is one parent considered unsafe for the child? Does one parent have a history or abusive or suicidal behavior?
And more! As every child is unique, they each have unique needs and circumstances, which is why it’s best to work with our experienced Moreno Valley custody lawyers in order to fight for the arrangement you feel would be most beneficial for your family.
Trust Our Moreno Valley Custody Lawyers
The Grey Legal Group can help you with aspects of custody including arranging visitation schedules, holiday scheduling, relocation, enforcing child support, and much more! We will advocate for you so that you get the time with your child that you deserve. Reach out to schedule an initial consultation with a member of our team and we will walk you through how we will treat your family like our own and fight on your behalf.
