Child Custody
Were you denied child custody or visitation rights?
Child Custody in California
Los Angeles Family Law Attorneys Protecting Your Parental Rights
Child custody disputes are often among the most emotionally challenging issues in family law. When your child’s future and well-being are at stake, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or uncertain about the road ahead. At Holstrom, Block & Parke, A Professional Law Corporation, our Los Angeles child custody attorneys understand the sensitivity of these cases and are here to help you navigate them with compassion, strength, and clarity.
We know that no two families are the same. Whether you’re seeking to establish custody, modify an existing order, or resolve a dispute through mediation or litigation, our attorneys will work tirelessly to protect your relationship with your child and ensure their best interests remain the priority.
Schedule a free phone consultation today to discuss your case with a trusted Los Angeles family law attorney.
How Is Child Custody Determined in California?
In California, child custody is determined based on the best interests of the child. Courts encourage parents to reach custody agreements through negotiation or mediation, allowing families to find solutions without unnecessary conflict. However, if parents cannot agree, a judge will make a final determination.
While a child’s preference may be considered (depending on their age and maturity), judges weigh many factors to ensure a custody arrangement that promotes the child’s health, safety, and stability. California law also favors joint custody whenever possible, allowing both parents to remain active participants in their child’s life.
Factors Courts Consider in Custody Decisions:
- Each parent’s ability to provide for the child’s needs
- The emotional bond between parent and child
- The stability and safety of each home environment
- Any history of domestic violence or abuse
- Each parent’s physical and mental health
- The distance between parents’ residences
- The child’s age, needs, and preferences (when appropriate)
Once a custody order is finalized, modifications are only granted when there is a significant change in circumstances, such as relocation, job loss, or changes affecting the child’s welfare. The court will only approve modifications that serve the child’s best interests.
Types of Custody in California
Child custody orders in California generally involve two categories:
- Legal Custody: The right to make important decisions about the child’s health, education, and welfare.
- Physical Custody: Determines where the child will live and how parenting time is shared.
Parents may be awarded joint custody (shared rights and responsibilities) or sole custody (one parent has primary rights), depending on what arrangement best supports the child’s well-being.
Compassionate, Results-Driven Representation
At Holstrom, Block & Parke, our Los Angeles child custody lawyers are committed to protecting both your parental rights and your child’s future. We take a client-focused approach—listening to your goals, explaining your options, and crafting a personalized legal strategy that aligns with your family’s needs.
Whether you are pursuing joint custody, sole custody, or a modification to an existing order, we combine skillful negotiation with strong courtroom advocacy to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Call our Los Angeles office today or reach out online to schedule your free consultation. Let our experienced attorneys help you build a plan that prioritizes your child’s stability and your peace of mind.