Orange County Child Custody Lawyer

Orange County Child Custody Attorney

Resolving child custody issues is often the most important and overwhelming part of the entire divorce process. When parents disagree, child custody decisions can become intensely contentious. With such high stakes involved, the way your child custody case is introduced or how you prepare the formal agreement can impact your family in the long term. An experienced Orange County child custody lawyer can listen to your goals and protect your rights.

Hire a Child Custody Lawyer to Protect Your Family

At AKPC Law, Arman Khoshnood has over a decade of experience in helping Orange County families through difficult custody battles. Contact the firm to schedule a consultation with an experienced lawyer right away.

California Custody Terms

In California, there are two types of custody:

• Legal custody: If a parent living in Orange County has legal custody of a child, they’re responsible for making many decisions about that child’s life. These include medical treatment, education, and religious influence. Often, joint legal custody is preferred, where both parents share decision-making rights equally, regardless of which parent has physical custody
• Physical custody: If a parent has physical custody, they have their child living in the same residence with them

When you hire a child custody lawyer, they can relentlessly protect your child’s best interests as it relates to their future and your parenting goals. They can also create a child custody agreement specific to your situation that’s innovative, tailored to your situation, and addresses your child’s needs.

In all Orange County child custody cases, the court’s decisions are typically led by what’s in the best interest of this specific child. Each custody determination hinges on being able to prove that one parent can protect the interests of that child, and a family law attorney can gather evidence to build a compelling case on your behalf. They can craft a persuasive argument to show that:

• Your lifestyle is stable
• Your child chooses to live with you (if they’re old enough)
• You can provide sufficient food and shelter
• You are financially stable
• You’re mentally and physically fit
• You have a demonstrable, supportive relationship with your child
• Your life won’t disrupt your child’s existing lifestyle

Mediation in Orange County Child Custody Cases

Mediation can be an alternative to traditional court proceedings. It creates a supportive space for parents to communicate respectfully and make decisions that will serve their children’s interests. The courtroom environment can be contentious, and this can cause rifts in family relationships and amplify an already stressful situation.

The benefits of mediation are:

• It is cost-effective: Mediation is usually more affordable than drawn-out court battles, which saves parents money while still reaching a favorable solution.
• Resolutions are quicker: Court cases can drag on for months, sometimes even years. Mediation usually leads to quicker resolutions.
• It empowers couples: Parents maintain control over the outcome instead of a judge dictating the terms.
• It is less stressful: Mediation strives to create a collaborative environment and reduce conflict.
• Creating customized solutions: Mediation allows parents to come up with tailored agreements that fit their family’s different needs.

With approximately 307,000 residents, Orange County’s bustling courts focus on parental stability and encourage parental involvement. Ideally, your child can continue a relationship with both of their parents, regardless of the formal custody decision. An Orange County child custody attorney can advocate for your interests throughout this process.

FAQs

Q: What Are the Different Types of Child Custody in Orange County?

A: Child custody is usually divided into two main types: legal and physical. Legal custody determines which parent will make the important decisions regarding the child’s upbringing, including education and healthcare. Physical custody decides where the child lives and who will provide their daily care. Both types of custody can be either joint, which is shared, or sole, which is primarily with one parent.

Q: Does California Favor Mothers in Custody Cases?

A: No, California courts do not favor either mothers or fathers in child custody cases, and the child custody laws are written as gender-neutral. The decisions are made based on what is in the “interests of the child.” The court will look at factors such as the child’s health, safety, and welfare, along with each parent’s ability to provide a stable and nurturing home.

Q: What Happens If a Child Custody Order Is Violated?

A: Violating a custody order is serious, as it violates a legally binding contract. The non-violating parent should document all situations where their co-parent was not in compliance, and they can then file a motion with the court to enforce the order. The court can impose fines and modify the custody arrangement.

Q: What Is a “Parenting Plan?”

A: A “parenting plan” is an agreement or court order between the parents. It outlines how they will share responsibilities and time with their children after they divorce or separate. It typically outlines:

• Legal and physical custody
• Visitation schedules
• Holiday arrangements
• Child support

It is used to ensure clarity for the co-parents as they raise their children.

Q: What Is the Most Common Custody Arrangement in California?

A: California’s most common child custody arrangement is sole physical and joint legal custody. This means one parent is primarily responsible for the daily care of their child, but both parents have the legal right to make important decisions for them. This arrangement is the most favorable for courts because it creates a stable environment for the child while still allowing both parents to be actively involved in their upbringing.

Consult Arman Khoshnood at AKPC Law to Discuss Child Custody Matters

If you need an advocate for child custody decisions, Arman Khoshnood can provide clear communication and support to safeguard your child’s security and well-being.

AKPC Law’s office is part of the Irvine Business Complex (IBC), and there’s plenty of convenient parking. Mr. Khoshnood speaks fluent English, Spanish, and Farsi.

Contact AKPC Law to speak directly with a knowledgeable attorney about your situation.