Articles Posted in Judgment

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How Can a Parent Lose Custody of Their Child?

How Can a Parent Lose Custody of Their Child?

Custody is a challenging aspect of family law, as parents want a connection with their children, and children want a connection with their parents. Generally, the courts try to honor those desires for connection in their custody rulings. They want to give parents as close to even roles in their child’s life as possible. However, the guiding principle of the courts is the child’s interests. This means that there are some things a parent may do which are considered so harmful to the child’s welfare that custody must be taken from the parent. If issues like this are a concern with either yourself or the other parent, it’s important to talk with an experienced child custody attorney who can help you understand your options.

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When Can Your Child Decide Which Parent to Live With

When Can Your Child Decide Which Parent to Live With?

Divorces and separations are challenging for everyone, but they often have a unique impact on the children who are involved. Every state has different guidelines surrounding the preferences of a child in court and when they can be honored. Whether the relationship between a child and one of their parents is broken or a child truly wishes to live with the other parent, you may be wondering when your kids are legally allowed to choose where to live.

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Understanding Ex Parte Child Custody Orders

Understanding Ex Parte Child Custody Orders

Ex parte proceedings, also called emergency proceedings, are filed when an immediate decision needs to be made in a family law case because of an emergency situation. An ex parte order is an emergency and temporary order. They may be necessary in divorce proceedings, child custody determinations, and domestic violence cases.

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Establishing Paternity in California

Establishing Paternity in California

Establishing paternity is necessary for many unmarried couples to gain essential parental rights and responsibilities for their children. Paternity allows both parents to have rights to custody and visitation, along with the responsibility to financially support their child. It also allows children to get financial insurance benefits and inheritance rights from both of their parents. There are several ways that parents can establish the paternity of their children.

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The Difference Between Divorce vs. Legal Separation vs. Annulment

The Difference Between Divorce vs. Legal Separation vs. Annulment

A married couple or domestic partnership considering separation in California has several legal options available. This can be confusing and frustrating for some couples who are unsure what the “right” way to separate is. Couples can end or separate a marriage through divorce, annulment, or legal separation, depending on the circumstances of their marriage. The ideal option for your separation will depend on several factors. It can be helpful for couples to talk with a qualified family law attorney to understand if they meet the requirements for certain types of separation.

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When Do Courts Deem a Parent Unfit for Visitation or Custody?

When Do Courts Deem a Parent Unfit for Visitation or Custody?

Child custody is a stressful time in any parent’s life, whether it is part of a divorce proceeding or the result of separation. In a custody determination, most parents want as much time as they can get with their children. The court will always make a custody and visitation decision based on the child’s interests. When a parent is deemed unfit, they will likely be unable to have child custody rights.

The term “unfit parent” doesn’t refer to imperfect parenting. Instead, it’s a legal term that applies when a parent cannot provide safety and care for their child.

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Proving Parental Alienation in California Child Custody Cases

Proving Parental Alienation in California Child Custody Cases

Divorce or parental separation is a difficult time for any family. Though many families try to work with each other, this isn’t always the case. There are unfortunate situations where one parent attempts to harm the relationship between the child and the other parent. These attempts can be considered parental alienation if the child rejects or estranges themselves from that parent.

Many parents see children pull themselves away emotionally after separation because it’s also difficult for kids. In most cases, it just takes time and understanding. For some parents, however, those bonds don’t heal because of the manipulative tactics of their co-parents. Parental alienation can be minor or severe. It’s essential to understand how that impacts your family and what you can do about it if you’re a parent who suspects your child is being intentionally distanced from you.

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Father’s Focus: Family Law for Today’s Dads

Father's Focus: Family Law for Today's Dads

In our ever-evolving society, dads find themselves embracing a more significant part in the upbringing of their offspring, sharing tasks, and forming enduring connections with their little ones. When confronted with family law, modern fathers must be well-versed and take the initiative when learning about their legal rights and duties. This includes custody entitlements, child support, and effective co-parenting methods. Having legal support and resources can significantly ease the journey.

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Can Child Custody Be Re-Negotiated in California?

Can Child Custody Be Re-Negotiated in California?

Child custody issues can become increasingly difficult during divorce proceedings. The choice of which parent will have full custody is left to the court’s discretion. The judgments made by the court to carry out these agreements differ from case to case because every custody scenario is unique. Although seemingly finite, child custody agreements can be negotiated and redefined based on situational changes with either or both parents.

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What Are the Main Elements of a California Divorce?

What Are the Main Elements of a California Divorce?

Divorce is always challenging, but it is also often more complex than many realize as they begin their dissolution proceedings. Regardless of the reason for your divorce or the apparent complexity of the issues you believe you face, it’s vital to have legal representation as you navigate your divorce so you are prepared to meet the various challenges your case presents. While every divorce is unique, there are a few foundational elements that all divorces must cover.

As you search for a California family law attorney to represent you, it’s vital to evaluate the core issues of your divorce. At Bickford Blado & Botros, we provide our prospective clients with the information they need to make informed decisions about their family law cases. The following are the core elements of most modern divorces in California.

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