Sonoma County Child Custody Attorney
Most parents want the best for their children, but often they don't agree on what is "best." In custody matters, the family court is required to determine what custodial arrangement is in the "best interests of the child." California courts encourage parents to reach agreements, and for this purpose provide child custody mediation services through the office of Family Court Services. We will assist you in preparing for this court-sponsored mediation.
If you and the other parent cannot reach an agreement, we will advocate to the court on your behalf for the arrangement that you feel will best serve your children's needs. Many issues will be considered in the court's decisions, from parenting skills to flexibility in working with the other parent. Additionally, issues such as a parent's lifestyle, chemical dependency, behavioral problems, or plans to move away from the local community can be important. We will help you present your proposed solution to the court.
In helping you reach a workable child custody and visitation plan, we will use a variety of resources, depending on your particular situation. These include:
- Negotiation
- Mediation
- Collaborative Law
- Co-parent counseling
- Child custody evaluation
- Supervised visitation
- Restraining orders
- Parenting education
When custody disputes become contentious, we are ready to go to court and advocate for you and what you believe is best for your children. Through a careful marshalling of the facts, a sound legal strategy, and knowledge of the law and the family court system, we work hard for what is best for you and your children.
Under California family law, mothers and fathers are equal parties have equal rights to raise their children, although it is a common misconception that means they have an automatic right to equal amounts of time with the children. Our law firm zealously advocates for our family law clients - whether they are mothers or fathers. We work hard to optimize the amount and quality of your time with your children.
If you become our client, we will believe in you - whether you are a father or a mother. If previous problems - such as substance abuse or domestic violence - have caused your rights to be curtailed, we will work with you to find ways to overcome these problems and show the court and the other parent that you are ready and able to parent your children safely. We have helped parents of both genders obtain or increase custodial rights, even when their previous experience with the legal system has not been positive.
For a confidential consultation with a compassionate and experienced family law attorney, contact us. Evening and weekend appointments can be arranged if necessary.
