Temecula, California, Child Custody and Visitation Lawyer
One of the most emotionally charged issues in the area of family law is child custody. Parents often struggle to show they are the better parent and should be awarded physical custody or legal custody of their child. This often leaves the child or children in the middle. We help parents understand the court will base it's determination on the best interests of their child, and will work to develop arguments creating parenting plans that achieve their goals and the goals for their family.
At The Law Offices of John G. McGill, Jr., our firm represents our clients' rights in a child custody and visitation cases. We work to minimize the stress the legal process may cause. Our firm helps clients with child custody matters within the context of a divorce, after a divorce, and for clients who have never been married to the other parent of their child.
Child Custody
The concern in child custody cases is the potential impact of the decision on the child. The "best interests of the child" is the standard the courts apply to all aspects of the divorce. The court will examine all relevant factors that could impact the child. Two factors the courts must use are the child's health, safety and welfare and any history of abuse. The California legislature has also indicated that when possible the child should have frequent and containing contact with both parents. Joint custody is the preferred custody, but the variations among physical custody and legal custody are only bounded by the number of divorces within California. An experienced child custody lawyer can create the arguments that work to demonstrate how your best interests and your child's merge.
Visitation
Parents who do not have custody of a child may have visitation rights. As part of a parenting plan, a schedule for the child can be developed. The more formal this arrangement is, the easier it will be to ensure the children have adequate time with both parents. The Law Offices of John G. McGill have helped numerous clients work out the visitation schedules they need to maintain a healthy relationship with their children.
Many parents who have primary physical custody may find it necessary to move away from their current residence. However, because the court has continuing jurisdiction to supervise the divorce order, parents cannot move without first requesting the court modify the terms of the prior order. If you are seeking to relocate yourself and your child, or attempting to prevent a move away, it is important that you contact an experienced attorney in order to prevent any violation of standing custody orders.
Contact The Law Offices of John G. McGill, Jr. to schedule an initial consultation without charge with a dedicated Temecula, California, child custody and visitation attorney.
Initial consultations without charge • Credit cards accepted • Over 29 years of family law experience
The Law Offices of John G. McGill, Jr.
28459 Old Town Front St.
Suite 315
Temecula, CA 92590
Phone: (951) 795-4186
Fax: (951) 699-5087