In Need of a Child Custody Attorney?
At Markey Law Offices, we understand that decisions surrounding child custody are some of the most personal and challenging parents will ever face. Every decision you make now will impact your life and your child’s future. We are committed to helping you navigate this process with clarity, dignity, and unwavering support.
Our Thousand Oaks family law attorney, Paulina Markey, believes child custody cases require legal experience, compassion, and a deep understanding of your unique situation. When you work with Markey Law Offices, you are not just hiring an attorney—you are gaining a partner who will guide you every step of the way.
With our fully remote services, you can reach out through phone, text, email, or Zoom whenever you need. You’ll receive personalized legal guidance directly from our attorneys, who truly understand the personal nature of your case and the significant impact the outcome will have on your future. Contact our Ventura County and Los Angeles County child custody lawyers today.
What Are the Types of Child Custody in California?
California law recognizes two main types of custody:
- Legal Custody: Refers to the right to make important decisions about your child’s upbringing, including education, healthcare, and religious practices.
Legal custody can be:
- Joint Legal Custody: Both parents share the responsibility for making decisions.
- Sole Legal Custody: One parent has the exclusive right to make decisions.
- Physical Custody: Refers to where the child lives.
Physical custody arrangements can include:
- Joint Physical Custody: The child spends significant time with both parents.
- Sole Physical Custody: The child primarily lives with one parent, while the other has visitation rights.
What Is the Difference Between Physical Custody and Visitation?
Physical custody determines where the child lives, while visitation allows the non-custodial parent to spend time with the child. Even if one parent has sole physical custody, the other may still have visitation rights unless there are safety concerns.
Visitation rights allow the non-custodial parent to maintain a relationship with the child.
Types of visitation include:
- Scheduled Visitation: A detailed schedule outlining specific days and times.
- Reasonable Visitation: A more flexible arrangement based on the parents’ agreement.
- Supervised Visitation: Requires a neutral third party to be present, often used when the child’s safety is a concern.
- No Visitation: In rare cases, the court may deny visitation if it is not in the child’s best interests.
What Factors Do Courts Consider When Determining Child Custody in California?
All California family law courts prioritize the child’s best interests when making custody decisions, regardless of the county in which the child resides.
Key factors include:
- The child’s health, safety, and welfare: The court evaluates which arrangement best ensures the child’s well-being.
- Parental stability: The court considers each parent’s ability to provide a stable, loving environment.
- History of caregiving: Courts often examine which parent has been the primary caregiver.
- The child’s preference: Their input may be considered depending on age and maturity.
- Parental cooperation: Courts favor parents willing to co-parent and communicate effectively.
- History of abuse or neglect: Any allegations of domestic violence or substance abuse are thoroughly investigated.
If you have questions about how these factors impact your ability to obtain custody or visitation of your child(ren) and the best approach to creating a concrete parenting plan, we can help you understand your legal rights and options without confusion or delay. Contact our skilled Thousand Oaks child custody lawyers today for help.
What Is a Parenting Plan?
A parenting plan outlines how parents will share time and responsibilities for their child.
It typically includes:
- A detailed schedule for custody and visitation.
- Guidelines for holidays, vacations, and special events.
- Provisions for decision-making authority.
- Methods for resolving disputes.
Courts generally approve fair and precise plans that prioritize the child’s needs.
Do I Have to Attend Mediation Before Child Custody is Determined in California?
Yes. California law requires parents to attend mediation before the court will decide on custody arrangements. Mediation provides a neutral setting to resolve disputes and create a parenting plan that works for both parties. If an agreement cannot be reached, the court will intervene.
Will I Have to Go to Court?
Not necessarily. Many custody cases are resolved through mediation or negotiation. However, a judge will decide based on the child’s best interests if an agreement cannot be reached.
Can I Modify an Existing California Custody Order?
Yes, custody orders can be modified, but you must demonstrate a significant change in circumstances.
Examples include:
- Relocation of one parent.
- Changes in the child’s needs or schedule.
- Evidence of abuse or neglect.
- One parent’s failure to adhere to the current order.
At Markey Law Offices, we can help you present compelling evidence to support your request for modification.
Can I Move Out of State with My Child?
Relocation or “move-away” cases require court approval if the move significantly affects the other parent’s custody or visitation rights.
The court evaluates factors such as:
- The reason for the move.
- The distance of the move.
- The impact on the child’s relationship with the non-moving parent.
- The moving parent’s ability to provide stability.
If you are considering relocation, consulting with our experienced attorney is critical to navigating this complex process.
Tailored California Child Custody Legal Services to Meet Your Unique Needs
At Markey Law Offices, we understand that every child custody case is different. Some parents need assistance with the finer details and paperwork, while others require a skilled litigator to advocate for their parental rights in court. Our services are designed to meet you where you are, providing the exact level of support you need.
Help With the Details: Drafting, Filing, and Reviewing Custody Agreements
We offer focused, professional support if you’re confident in representing yourself but need help navigating the technical aspects of your child custody case.
Our Thousand Oaks family lawyers can assist with the following:
- Drafting and filing custody paperwork.
- Preparing and reviewing parenting plans.
- Ensuring all legal documents are accurate and complete.
This approach is ideal for parents who want to stay in control of their case while ensuring the details are handled with precision and efficiency. We manage the legal legwork so you can focus on building a future that works for you and your child.
When Litigation Is Necessary: Advocacy You Can Rely On
Having a skilled litigator on your side can make all the difference for parents facing high-conflict custody disputes or complex legal challenges.
At Markey Law Offices, we are prepared to:
- Advocate for your parental rights in court.
- Present compelling arguments that align with your child’s best interests.
- Navigate challenging situations, such as allegations of neglect or disputes over relocation.
Whether through negotiation or courtroom advocacy, our goal is to secure a custody arrangement that prioritizes your child’s well-being and preserves your parental rights.
Helping Parents Stay Focused During Emotional Custody Cases
Child custody cases often come with overwhelming emotions, making it difficult to focus on the legal process. At Markey Law Offices, we provide steady guidance and compassionate support to help you navigate this challenging time.
By listening to your concerns and setting realistic expectations, we work with you to create a clear plan of action tailored to your specific needs. We break the process into manageable steps and keep you informed every step of the way.
Collaboration and Solutions That Work for Your Family
Our approach emphasizes collaboration whenever possible. By focusing on solutions rather than conflict, we aim to achieve outcomes that work for everyone involved—especially your child. However, if negotiation fails, you can trust us to advocate vigorously for your rights in court.
Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on moving forward. Contact our Thousand Oaks family law firm today to discuss how we can help with your child custody case, whether you need assistance with paperwork or a dedicated courtroom advocate.
Our fully remote services allow you to connect with us through phone, email, text, or Zoom—whenever convenient. We prioritize accessibility so you can receive timely updates and answers to your questions.
We Also Focus on the Following Areas:
- Property Division.
- Divorce
- Child Custody.
- Child Support.
- Prenuptial Agreements.
- Spousal Support.
- Domestic Violence/Restraining Orders.
- Minor’s Counsel
Protect Your Child’s Future with Markey Law Offices
At Markey Law Offices, we understand that child custody cases are more than legal procedures—they’re about the people and relationships that matter most in your life. Our goal is to provide the legal knowledge, compassion, and advocacy you need to make informed decisions and confidently move forward.
Contact our Thousand Oaks child custody attorneys today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward securing a brighter future for you and your child. Let’s work together to create a custody arrangement that protects your rights and prioritizes your child’s well-being.