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Child Custody

SAN DIEGO CHILD CUSTODY LAWYER

Top-Rated Legal Support for Child Custody in San Diego

Smiling girl hugs her father while her sitting mother smiles in the background.

The question of who has custody over your child is likely the most important, most emotionally distressing question you will ever have to answer in the divorce process. The stakes involved means there is no margin for error—how your child custody case is presented or how you craft the agreement could affect your family's lives for decades to come. Thankfully, you have an ally with our San Diego child custody lawyers at Family Law San Diego.

Call (619) 577-4900 today to schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced San Diego child custody lawyer today.

Understanding Child Custody Types in California

In the state of California, there are two types of child custody:

  • Legal custody refers to a parent’s right to make decisions about the child’s life, such as decisions with their health, education, and welfare.
  • Physical custody refers to a parent’s right to spend time with and live with their child.

Our child custody lawyers serving San Diego have decades of collective experience that we put to work for our clients to fiercely and relentlessly protect their futures. We create child custody agreements that are innovative, creative, and above all, uphold your child's best interests.

Child Custody Determination: Best Interests of the Child

When it comes to child custody in San Diego, the Family Courts throughout San Diego County are led by one question: what is in the best interests of your child? Every custody case hinges on proving that a parent is the person to guide and care for a child. Your San Diego child custody lawyers will have to present your case before the court if there is no agreement and believe you should have primary custody (or additional custody in a modification case).

Judges will use the following criteria in order to evaluate your claim:

  • Each parent's lifestyle
  • Each parent's financial situation
  • The child's choice (if old enough)
  • How healthy each parent is (mentally and physically)
  • The ability of each parent to provide food and shelter
  • The relationship between each parent and the child
  • Any record of domestic violence or substance abuse
  • How disruptive each parent's lifestyle is to the child's

Gender Neutrality in California Child Custody Law

Since the court determines child custody based on the best interests of the child, California child custody laws do not inherently favor either parent.

Criteria for Determining Parental Fitness in California

The California court may deem a parent unfit if he or she demonstrates any of the following:

  • An inability to make age-appropriate parenting decisions;
  • A lack of understanding or response to the child’s needs;
  • Insufficient historical involvement in the child’s life;
  • An unwillingness to cooperate with the other parent when it comes to the child’s best interests;
  • A history of child abuse or domestic violence;
  • Issues with substance abuse;
  • A mental illness that interferes with the child’s wellbeing; and/or
  • Unhealthy social behaviors.

To speak with an experienced San Diego child custody lawyer, give us a call at (619) 577-4900 or contact us online today.

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LEADERS IN FAMILY LAW

Reasons To Work With Family Law San Diego
  • Comprehensive
    As skilled litigators, mediators, and negotiators, our firm is prepared to handle any type of family law case.
  • Collaborative
    Working together, we pull from our unique backgrounds and resources to achieve the best results possible.
  • Innovative
    We create tailor-made solutions to fit the unique needs of every client and help them move forward favorably.
  • Dedicated
    We are committed to serving a diverse clientele, all the while protecting the interests and fulfilling the needs of clients.

GEt Informed

WE GIVE OUR CLIENTS A VOICE

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
    "They listened to my mother's situation with genuine compassion"
    The level of care and attention to detail they provided was truly exceptional. Phone calls and emails were answered almost immediately, and we always felt supported, heard, and prioritized.
    Carolina
    "Their stellar reputation in the community is a testament to their dedication"
    Their team of dedicated attorneys brings extensive experience and a deep understanding of family law, ensuring clients receive top-notch legal representation. What sets Family Law San Diego apart is their compassionate approach and personalized attention t
    Claude
    "I had a difficult situation and he masterfully navigated throughout the entire process."
    He listened attentively, quickly understood the situation, and skillfully represented me in the courtroom. I am grateful for the expertise dedicated to my legal issue.
    Jean M.
    "I can’t thank them enough for bringing me such relief."
    They took care of everything for me. They also took the time to explain the details in simple terms not with the scary vocabulary one sees laws with as it’s not our language.
    Miriam
    "They handled my divorce case with incredible expertise and professionalism"
    Their dedication to achieving the best possible outcome was evident throughout the process, and they truly went above and beyond to alleviate my stress during this difficult time.
    Jasmine
    "We felt like we were in great hands the entire time."
    I am grateful to have had them on my side during this difficult time and would recommend them to anyone needed someone genuine on their side.
    Frank
    "I would absolutely recommend this firm for any of your family law needs."
    You will be met with kindness and genuine interest that is only outmatched by Mr. Klueck's professionalism and years of experience.
    Gerilyn H.