Costa Mesa Child Custody Lawyer

A child custody case in Costa Mesa can make you feel like everything is on the line. While the idea of a court determining your parenting schedule may leave you feeling uneasy, it is important to remember that there are strict rules and procedures for child custody cases that must be followed. Having a skilled Costa Mesa child custody lawyer by your side ensures that your voice is heard and considered by the court. Legal representation can provide invaluable peace of mind during this difficult time.

A Costa Mesa Law Firm Focused on Delivering Strategic Representation

A child custody case in Costa Mesa can feel monumental since your child is one of the most important parts of your life. At Minyard Morris, we recognize the importance of protecting your relationship with your children and are committed to achieving results that safeguard those connections. We continuously explore innovative solutions to custody challenges that arise because we understand that no two cases are ever the same.

Three times a week, our entire legal team steps away from individual caseloads to collaborate in strategy meetings. This collective problem-solving allows our attorneys to exchange ideas, refine approaches, and tackle difficult legal issues with fresh perspectives. When one attorney faces a challenge, they have a team of experienced family law professionals to consult. This unique, team-based approach enhances our ability to secure strong results for our clients.

Legal and Physical Custody

As your case moves forward, the courts will establish custody rights for both you and the other parent. Legal custody refers to the legal decision-making power held by one or both parents. These include the authority to make decisions about schooling, medical treatments, and religious training. Often, this type of custody is shared jointly by both parents.

Physical custody determines where the child lives. If one parent is given sole or primary physical custody, the child’s main home will be with that parent. If the parents split their parenting time evenly, that 50/50 arrangement would mean that the child has two homes.

What to Expect During Your Custody Case

Some people may have the idea that the courts step in and make important parenting decisions on behalf of parents, but this isn’t always true. The courts understand that parents know their children better than anyone else. Parents are encouraged to reach agreements on child custody and visitation orders that work for their family.

It is only in cases where both parents cannot come to an agreement that a judge will step in to make those decisions. When a judge makes a custody determination, they do so based on the best interests of the child. They also consider factors like where the child has lived, who they spend more time with, and the ability of each parent to raise the child.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Each client comes to court with their own goals and interests. Achieving those goals requires a deep understanding of family law, the court system, and the particularities of individual courts. Family law attorneys use their knowledge of the law and first-hand experience handling family court cases to help clients further their aims in court. Without legal representation, you risk losing parenting time with your child and other important rights in Costa Mesa.

An attorney is an advocate who can monitor the progression of the custody case and take decisive action when needed. They may need to address false accusations made by your soon-to-be ex or negotiate a favorable parenting schedule that protects your time with your child.

FAQs

Who Is More Likely to Win a Child Custody Case?

Often, the parent who has stronger legal representation wins a child custody case. This is because lawyers play a critical role in shaping the outcomes of child custody cases. A parent who has a strong track record of being a reliable and loving parent stands a strong chance of winning a child custody case, and a lawyer can help you prove how capable you are. The family courts consider many factors when making these decisions.

What Is the Most Common Child Custody Arrangement in California?

The most common child custody arrangement in California is joint custody, where the child spends quality time with both parents at separate times. When both parents are fit to parent, the courts generally award joint custody. This doesn’t always mean a 50/50 split between time. Individual cases vary considerably, accounting for a parent’s history of abuse, neglect, substance abuse, or fitness to care for the child.

What Is the Biggest Mistake Parents Make in a Custody Battle?

The biggest mistake a parent can make is to have unrealistic expectations and to be unwilling to adjust those expectations when faced with the realities of the court. It is reasonable to go into a case wanting to maximize the time you can spend with your child, but compromise may be needed to finalize a divorce or custody battle. The courts can tell when one parent is being unreasonable. Those tactics could eventually lead to unneeded delays.

What Should You Avoid Saying During a Custody Case?

During a custody case, do not say anything that could compromise how you are viewed by the court. Remain focused on your child and provide them with your time and resources. If you are preoccupied with saying disparaging things about the other parent without evidence to back up those claims, you could be seen as someone who isn’t focused on the needs of their child.

Contact Minyard Morris to Get Defense Related to Child Custody Cases

Child custody cases should always prioritize the needs of your child. If you are ready to work with a legal team that takes your parental rights seriously, we welcome you to contact Minyard Morris today. When you partner with our firm, you gain access to the collective knowledge of 20 family law attorneys.

Whether you are going through a divorce, seeking parental rights as a father, or requesting a child custody modification, we can provide you with the services and strategies you need.

We rely on the power of collective problem-solving to find novel solutions to complicated problems. Our ultimate goal is to deliver exceptional results for our clients. To learn how we can help you achieve your goals in family court, contact our office today.