Advocating For You & Your Children
“Physical Custody” is the matter of how much time the children spend with each individual parent. This includes, but is not limited to, regular visitation schedules, holiday schedules, vacations, transportation, and visitation exchanges.
“Legal Custody” is the matter of making decisions for a child that requires legal authorization. Generally, this regards the medical and educational decisions that must be made for a child.
If you have kids, questions about child custody are likely looming large in your divorce case. The attorneys at Prager Jones understand how important your children are to you, and we do everything we can to protect your relationship with them.
In California, courts must make custody decisions in the best interests of the children. There are a number of factors courts consider when making those determinations, including, but not limited to, the child’s age, health, needs, emotional connection to each parent and any history of abuse in the family. Physical custody can be split equally, split unequally, or given to one parent only.
When possible, courts encourage parents to reach agreements on their own, through mediation, or other litigation alternatives. When alternatives fail, Prager Jones has an exemplary success record with custody litigation. Whatever approach is necessary in your case, our lawyers have the skills and experience to guide you through it.
Paternity Cases & Parentage Actions
Prager Jones has helped a countless number of parents establish parentage. We help ensure that you have fair custody orders that promote a healthy relationship between you, your child, and your co-parent.
In California, “Paternity” cases are now called “Parentage” cases. Biological fatherhood is legally uncertain if the parents are unmarried at the time of a child’s birth. Motherhood is almost never in question due to the fact of giving birth.
In California, parentage is legally presumed when the parents are married at the time of birth. If the parents are not married at the time of birth, the court is not able to make orders for custody, visitation, and child support. The Court must first determine the biological father. In many cases, it may be necessary to have the court order a genetic test to formally establish parentage. This is known as a Petition to Establish a Parent-Child Relationship. (aka Parentage Case). Prager Jones also has experience handling cases involving same sex parents and where a child has more than two parents.
Whether you are a father seeking custody or visitation rights, or a mother seeking support and stability for your family. Regardless of the circumstances, our firm is ready to help.
Have More Questions? Schedule a Free Consultation.
Prager Jones proudly serves clients in San Diego and throughout San Diego County. You can schedule your free initial consultation by calling our office at 619-826-6926, or by sending an email inquiry.