Child Custody Lawyer Manhattan Beach, CA
No one wants to imagine what life would be like without someone that they planned to be with forever. But sometimes life unfolds in unexpected ways, and we may choose to divorce from our spouse. If there are shared children together, then this means a discussion over child custody will need to be had. Our Manhattan Beach, CA child custody lawyer understands the immense stress you may be under at this time. Whether you are glad to be separating from your spouse or are struggling to get through this major change, you can trust that you are in good hands at Skarin Law Group. Please do not hesitate to contact our law firm today to receive guidance. Let us walk you through the process of divorce and negotiating a fair child custody arrangement. We are ready to speak with you now.
Being a Good Parent
Right now, you may be tempted to get back at your spouse for the divorce. You may want to seek revenge or use children to cause further pain for your partner. Anger, resentment, and frustration are all normal feelings for a situation like this. However, being a good parent must take precedence over anything else. When it comes to your child custody battle, presenting yourself in the best possible light can ultimately be what turns the verdict into your favor. If you act out, use social media to make matters worse, or otherwise scheme to hurt your ex spouse, this may come up in court. It is essential that the court views you as a caring and dedicated parent who is putting the wellbeing of your child first. Our knowledgeable child custody attorney has experience helping families achieve ideal outcomes when fighting for custody of their children. Your emotions may be telling you to take certain actions that could potentially risk your reputation as a good parent. Above all else, focus on your children before engaging in behaviors that may reflect you in a negative light.
Physical And Legal Custody
There are a couple different types of child custody, physical custody and legal custody. Physical custody is a judgment or stipulation that determines what percentage of time the children will reside with each parent. This percentage will depend on several factors, such as where the child goes to school, how much time and living space the parent has for the child, and other variables the court deems important. Legal custody means the parent has the right to make decisions regarding the child’s education, religious upbringing, and health. With both physical and legal custody, the parents may have joint or sole custody. In other words, either the parents will share physical and legal custody, or it will be given to one parent primarily.
Skarin Law Group
At Skarin Law Group, we understand that you may be going through many emotions and thoughts about the future. Your life may be changing in a big way, and you can trust our Manhattan Beach child custody attorney to have your best interest at heart. We know that things may feel more than overwhelming, but having a legal team at your side can make the process that much easier. Our team has more than 15 years of experience helping parents get through difficult times. At Matthew Skarin, Anni A. Aslanian, Erin Brown, and Maya Galicia-Canto are ready to support you.
What Judges Consider When Deciding Custody
Your Manhattan Beach, CA child custody lawyer can help you fight for your rights as a parent. At Skarin Law Group, we’ve spent 16 years representing our clients with their child support and child custody cases. As committed family law lawyers, we’re ready to help you with your case next. Read on to learn how a judge decides who gets child custody, and contact us today to get started.
- The Child’s Best Interests
The primary focus in any custody case is always the well-being of the child. Judges are tasked with determining which arrangement will best support the child’s emotional, physical, and developmental needs. This can include factors like the stability of each parent’s home environment, the quality of the parent-child relationship, and the ability of each parent to provide for the child.
- Each Parent’s Involvement
A judge will closely examine the level of involvement each parent has had in the child’s life leading up to the custody case. Parents who have consistently been engaged in the child’s education, health care, and daily activities often have an advantage. The goal is to maintain continuity in the child’s life, so a parent who has been less involved may be at a disadvantage unless they demonstrate a willingness to become more engaged moving forward. Your Manhattan Beach child custody lawyer can help you demonstrate your involvement.
- The Child’s Preference
Depending on the age and maturity of the child, judges may consider the child’s own preferences. While younger children’s wishes might not carry much weight, older children are often given a voice in the process. Judges do not base their decision solely on the child’s preference, but it can be an influencing factor, particularly if the child expresses strong feelings about living with one parent over the other.
- Each Parent’s Ability To Cooperate
Judges often look at how well parents can cooperate with one another, especially when it comes to joint custody arrangements. The ability to communicate and work together for the benefit of the child is key to successful co-parenting. Parents who demonstrate a willingness to support each other’s relationship with the child and resolve disputes calmly are more likely to receive favorable outcomes.
- History Of Domestic Violence Or Substance Abuse
If there is any history of domestic violence, child abuse, or substance abuse in the family, this will have a serious impact on custody decisions. Judges take these matters very seriously, as they directly affect the child’s safety.
- Each Parent’s Financial Situation
While financial resources are not the only consideration, judges may look at whether each parent can provide for the child’s basic needs, such as housing, food, and clothing. This does not mean that a parent with a lower income will automatically lose custody. Instead, the court considers whether each parent is capable of maintaining a household that meets the child’s needs, regardless of income level.
Contact Us For Support With Custody Matters
If you are facing a custody dispute, having clear guidance can make a significant difference in the outcome. At Skarin Law Group, we are here to help you understand the factors at play and work towards the best possible arrangement for your family. Contact us today, and see what a Manhattan Beach child custody lawyer from our office can do for you.
Common Questions About Child Custody Lawyers
When going through a child custody case, it’s natural to have questions about the process and how to find the right legal representation. Working with a Manhattan Beach, CA child custody lawyer can make a significant difference in how smoothly your case proceeds and how well the needs of your children are met. Below, we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions to help guide you through this important time.
How Can I Find The Best Child Custody Lawyer?
To find the best child custody lawyer, start by looking for someone with experience in handling cases similar to yours. Check for reviews online, ask for referrals from people you trust, and schedule consultations with potential attorneys to see if they are a good fit for your needs. You want to feel comfortable with the lawyer you choose and confident in their ability to represent you. It’s also helpful to work with a lawyer familiar with your local courts in as they will understand the nuances of how cases are handled in your area.
How Do I Prepare For A Child Custody Consultation With A Lawyer?
To prepare for your consultation, gather all the relevant information about your case. This could include details about your child’s current living situation, school records, medical history, and any custody arrangements you already have in place. Bring any legal documents related to your divorce or separation, as well as any communication between you and the other parent that may be relevant. Make sure to write down any questions you have beforehand so you make the most of your time during the consultation. The more organized you are, the better your attorney will be able to assess your situation and give you useful advice.
How Long Does A Child Custody Case Take?
The length of a child custody case can vary depending on several factors, including the level of cooperation between both parents and the court’s schedule. Some cases can be resolved in a matter of months if both parties can agree on custody terms, but more contentious cases that go to trial may take longer, possibly a year or more. It’s important to be patient and understand that the court’s priority is to reach an outcome that is in the best interests of the child. Your attorney will guide you through the process and keep you informed of the expected timeline for your case.
How Does Child Support Affect Custody Agreements?
Child support and custody are separate but related issues. The parent who has primary physical custody of the child is typically the one who receives child support from the other parent. The amount of child support depends on factors like income and the amount of time each parent spends with the child. It’s important to note that child support is designed to cover the child’s basic needs, such as housing, food, and education. A lawyer can help explain how child support and custody are connected in your specific case.
What Is The Difference Between Legal And Physical Custody?
Legal custody refers to the right to make important decisions about the child’s life, such as decisions related to education, healthcare, and religion. Physical custody refers to where the child lives and which parent is responsible for day-to-day care. In many cases, parents may share both legal and physical custody, but it’s possible for one parent to have sole legal or physical custody. The specifics of custody arrangements depend on the needs of the child and the circumstances of both parents.
At Skarin Law Firm, we understand how important it is to get the right answers when facing a child custody case. Contact us today to set up a consultation and learn how we can support you and your family through this process.
Non-Traditional Work Schedules And Child Custody
Our Manhattan Beach, CA child custody lawyer knows that parents with non-traditional work schedules, such as those in healthcare, emergency services, or other shift-based industries, often face unique challenges in custody arrangements. These situations require thoughtful planning to balance work obligations with parenting responsibilities while prioritizing the child’s well-being. We serve multiple areas, including El Segundo, Beverly Hills, and Manhattan Beach, so call our office.
- Flexibility in Parenting Plans. A flexible parenting plan is critical for parents with unpredictable or irregular work hours. Instead of adhering to rigid schedules, we can advocate for custody arrangements that adapt to changes in work shifts. For example, rotating schedules or “right of first refusal” clauses allow the other parent to care for the child during work hours, creating more stability for everyone involved.
- Prioritizing Consistency for the Child. Even with a non-traditional schedule, consistency in the child’s routine is essential. Maintaining regular meal times, bedtime routines, and school schedules helps minimize disruption in their daily life. A well-structured plan that integrates the child’s needs while accommodating work commitments can provide this balance.
- Using Technology for Communication. For parents who work odd hours, staying connected with the child outside of in-person visits is important. Video calls, text messages, and shared online calendars can help bridge gaps when physical custody isn’t possible. Incorporating these tools into the custody arrangement promotes strong parent-child relationships, even with a demanding work schedule.
- Addressing Extended Family Support. Non-traditional work schedules often require additional childcare support. Our child custody lawyer in Manhattan Beach recommends incorporating extended family members or trusted caregivers into the plan to provide stability for the child. Courts typically view the availability of a reliable support system as a positive factor when determining custody arrangements.
- Addressing Overnight and On-Call Shifts. Parents working overnight or on-call shifts may face challenges when aligning custody with their work obligations. In these cases, staggered custody schedules or assigning more weekend and daytime hours can help create balance. We often emphasize to the court that accommodating these shifts supports the child’s long-term connection with both parents.
- Considering Work-Related Travel. For parents who frequently travel for work, custody arrangements should include provisions for maintaining contact during these periods. Virtual visitation, planned make-up time, and communication flexibility can all play a role in maintaining parental involvement despite physical distance.
- Demonstrating Commitment to Parenting. When presenting a custody case, it’s important to show the court a clear plan for balancing work and parenting responsibilities. Demonstrating proactive steps—such as securing reliable childcare, scheduling quality time during off hours, and planning for emergencies—can positively influence custody decisions.
- Collaboration Between Parents. Effective co-parenting becomes even more important when one parent has a non-traditional work schedule. Open communication and a willingness to collaborate on adjustments help create a custody arrangement that works for everyone, especially the child.
Take Action With Skarin Law Group
If you have a non-traditional work schedule and need help crafting a custody arrangement that meets your family’s needs, Skarin Law Group is here to assist. Our team understands the importance of balancing work commitments with parenting responsibilities. Attorney Skarin created this firm in 2019 and works hard to have a hands-on approach with each client. Contact our child custody lawyer in Manhattan Beach today to schedule a consultation and start building a custody plan that prioritizes your child’s best interests.
