Law Offices of Makupson & Howard Law Offices of Makupson & Howard
Se Habla Español
Sincere & Resilient Legal Counsel When your family needs us, we are here to listen to your needs. Call Us Now

Pasadena Child Custody Lawyer

Do You Have Custody Questions? Call (888) 328-2734.

Child custody and the related subject of visitation rights can raise many questions in a divorce proceeding. At The Law Offices of Makupson & Howard, our best advice is to retain a competent Pasadena family law attorney who has the experience to correctly answer your questions.

We frequently get asked questions such as:

  • Does a father get the same consideration as the mother in custody matters?
  • Is child custody affected by parental criminal records in the state of California?
  • Are there different types of child custody that can be awarded?
  • What are the factors the court will look at in awarding custody?
  • Can domestic violence play a role in determining child custody?
  • Under what circumstances is sole custody given to a parent?
  • Can modifications be made to custody agreements?

Child custody resolution can be an emotional time for the entire family. Even when parents are divorcing in an amicable manner, each side needs to understand what their options are and how custody will work. Need a divorce lawyer for your child custody case in Pasadena? You need the best child custody attorney in Pasadena. We utilize our formal training in mediation to attempt resolution without court intervention. When agreement cannot be reached by the parents in this manner, our 50 years of experience in family law can be used to successfully resolve child custody in the courts.

Contact a Pasadena child custody attorney at (888) 328-2734 for protection of your rights!

Read some of our blogs that discuss child custody matters further:

Types of Child Custody

Sole custody and joint custody are two of the most common types of custody, but are not the only kinds. If you have physical custody, this means you have the right and responsibility to provide daily care for your child. Legal custody gives you the ability to take part in important decisions that affect the life of your child such as those dealing with religion, medical attention and education. We assist our clients to understand the different types of custody, how they work and how they may affect their lives for years to come.

How is Child Custody Determined in California?

The overriding factor in a matter of child custody will be what is in the overall best interest of the child. This is what the court will review in order to make their final determination. We invite you to use our understanding and experience to reach the agreements you desire on child custody.

Who Has Custody of a Child if There Is No Court Order in California?

In California, if there was no court order then both parents have an equal right to their children. It is illegal for one parent to hide the child from the other parent, or to also not provide a way for the other parent to visit the child. The exception to this rule is if there is a fear of domestic violence towards the child/ fear for the child’s safety. If this were the case, a parent may flee with the child as long as they notify the District Attorney's Child Abduction Unit within ten days, and file the appropriate paperwork in the Superior Court Clerk's Office in a reasonable time period.

Creating a Custody Plan That Puts Your Child First

At Law Offices of Makupson & Howard, we understand that child custody matters are often emotionally charged and can be complex. Our experienced Pasadena child custody lawyer is dedicated to helping you navigate the legal process and achieve a custody arrangement that prioritizes the best interests of your child.

When determining child custody in California, the court considers various factors, including:

  • The child's age and health
  • The child's relationship with each parent
  • The ability of each parent to provide a stable and loving environment
  • The child's preference, if they are old enough to express it
  • Any history of domestic violence or substance abuse

If there is no court order in place regarding custody, it is important to take legal action to establish a formal custody arrangement. Our child custody lawyer can guide you through this process and help protect your parental rights.

When child custody issues are at stake, it is crucial to have a skilled advocate on your side. Contact our Pasadena child custody lawyer at (888) 328-2734 to schedule a consultation. We are committed to working towards a resolution that meets your needs and safeguards the well-being of your child.

Don't just take our word for it - hear what our satisfied family law clients have to say about their experiences with our firm. We strive to provide compassionate and effective legal representation to every client we serve.

When child custody issues Pasadena are at stake, contact our child custody lawyer at (888) 328-2734 to protect your rights and work towards the resolution you desire.

Resources:

Commonly Asked Questions

What factors does the court consider when awarding child custody?

When awarding child custody, the court considers various factors such as the child's best interests, the parents' ability to provide for the child's physical and emotional needs, the child's relationship with each parent, any history of domestic violence or substance abuse, and the child's preferences depending on their age and maturity.

Can domestic violence play a role in determining child custody?

Yes, domestic violence can play a role in determining child custody. The court prioritizes the safety and well-being of the child, so if there is a history of domestic violence, it may impact the custody decision. The court may order supervised visitation or restrict the abusive parent's access to the child to ensure the child's safety.

Are there different types of child custody that can be awarded?

Yes, there are different types of child custody that can be awarded. The two most common types are sole custody and joint custody. Sole custody means one parent has primary physical and legal custody of the child, while joint custody means both parents share physical and legal custody. Other types of custody include physical custody, legal custody, and visitation rights.

Under what circumstances is sole custody given to a parent?

Sole custody may be given to a parent under certain circumstances such as when one parent is deemed unfit or unable to provide a stable and safe environment for the child, when there is a history of abuse or neglect, or when the parents are unable to cooperate and make joint decisions regarding the child's upbringing. The court will always prioritize the best interests of the child when making custody decisions.

Can modifications be made to custody agreements?

Yes, modifications can be made to custody agreements. If there has been a significant change in circumstances or if the current custody arrangement is no longer in the best interests of the child, either parent can request a modification of the custody agreement. The court will review the request and make a decision based on the child's best interests.

How does the court determine child custody in California?

The court determines child custody in California based on the best interests of the child. The court considers factors such as the child's health, safety, and welfare, the nature and extent of the child's relationship with each parent, the ability of each parent to provide for the child's needs, and any history of domestic violence or substance abuse. The court may also take into account the child's preferences depending on their age and maturity.

Helpful Resources

Clients Share Their Experiences

Stories From Real People Like You
  • "I cannot recommend highly enough!"
    C.E.
  • "Thank you Ms. Howard You and your team have helped me and my children during this long and difficult process. This has not been an easy road but you got us to the finish line. I know I was not always ..."
    E.T.
  • "I was frazzled, stressed out and looking for a way to reduce or completely eliminate Spousal Support payments after I retired. Kristen and her team came highly recommended. Their suggestions and ..."
    Paul G.
  • "I can't say enough good things about Kristen and her team. I was referred to her by a friend who had gotten great results for her divorce to a narcissist, and who won her custody case. I was quite ..."
    Katie M.
  • "I've dealt with my fair share of shady attorneys and Kristen is far from it. She helped me through a rough child custody case and was not only able to protect my child but also my own interests in the ..."
    Alicia S.
  • 50 Years' Collective Experience
  • Top Attorneys by Pasadena Magazine 2011-2018
  • Membership in The State Bar of California
  • Membership in California Women Lawyers
  • Membership in The Pasadena Bar Association
  • Accredited by the Better Business Bureau

Contact Our Firm

Have your family law matter reviewed by an experienced attorney at our Pasadena firm.

  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • By submitting, you agree to be contacted about your request & other information using automated technology. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text STOP to cancel. Acceptable Use Policy