Custody determinations are made with the best interest of the child in mind. During child custody arrangements, the court will take a wide variety of factors under advisement including primary residence and visitation. A child custody attorney will walk you through each step of the process to help you see your case from a variety of angles. At The Law Office of Nancy J. Stegall, APC, we work diligently to keep the emotional impact on the family unit low, especially during debates and legal changes that involve children.
Knowing Your Rights
Most often, clients are working with their past partners to find a healthy balance for their children. This can include either a joint custody or sole custody arrangement. In a joint custody situation, parents share decisions when it comes to the child’s schooling, medical care, residency, and religious upbringing. Joint custody does not mean that a child lives with each parent for an equal amount of time. It can be the case that physical custody is split 50/50 amongst parents but primary residency cam also be given to one parent only, with scheduled visitation for the other parent.
With a sole custody arrangement, the non-custodial parent has fewer obligations and power when it comes to everyday activities and medical care. This does not mean that the non-custodial parent is losing rights to the children, it just means that one parent is deemed to be the primary caregiver and decision maker regarding the children’s day-to-day activities.
Changes in Custody
If you have lost custody in the past, do not give up hope. There are many ways to still be involved in your child’s life, and custody arrangements can be changed or mediated as time goes on. The Law Office of Nancy J. Stegall, APC can review your case to help you petition the court for reinstated access into your children’s lives. The public policy of California is frequent and consistent contact with both parents.
Contact The Law Office of Nancy J. Stegall, APC today to schedule a consultation, or to learn more about custodial arrangements.