In California family law, custody covers legal rights and living arrangements, while visitation (parenting time) defines the specific schedule for the non-custodial parent. • Legal Custody: Refers to the decision-making authority for major aspects of your child’s life, such as healthcare, schooling, and religious upbringing. This can be shared (joint) or sole. • Physical Custody: Specifies where the child primarily resides. • Visitation: Outlines the designated time (weekends, holidays, summer schedules) the non-custodial parent spends with the child to ensure a strong, ongoing relationship. At [...]

While California law allows you to file for custody without representation, family law procedure is strict and emotionally demanding. Filing paperwork incorrectly, missing mandatory mediation steps, or failing to present your case effectively can lead to court orders that are difficult and costly to modify later. Having an experienced family law attorney like Linda D. States ensures your rights—and your relationship with your children—are fully protected from day one. We guide you through every step, handle the legal filings, and craft a strategy focused on [...]

If both parents agree on a child custody plan, you can have the agreement written up and filed as a formal stipulation and order with the court, avoiding a lengthy and stressful trial. Even if you disagree on certain issues, if you are willing to work together to negotiate a plan in your child's best interest, mediation or collaborative negotiation can facilitate a solution. At States Family Law, attorney Linda D. States works with parents to negotiate agreements outside of court whenever possible, saving you [...]