What Evidence is Admissible During a California Family Law Case?
California’s Superior Court defines family court as “designed to resolve disagreements arising from divorce and legal separation, including provisions for the care of children.” In your family law case, you might be asking yourself what evidence types can help you resolve these disagreements. This blog will provide guidance on what evidence can and cannot be admitted in family court. The Evidence Code and Family Law The Evidence Code, enacted by…
Read MoreWhat Happens when a Child Refuses Visitation?
Divorced parents often struggle to enforce their visitation rights. When children get to a certain age, they might get tired of the back-and-forth of shared custody and being sandwiched between different households. When the time comes for the child to exercise their independence more, they might actually refuse to see the other parent. This can be for minor reasons, such as the changing schedules and a different bedroom, or a…
Read MoreWhat is Contempt of Family Court in California?
If you are experiencing child custody, paternity, or guardianship issues, you may face the reality of being summoned to a case in family court. But what is family court? What happens if someone is found in contempt of family court? If you are attempting to bring a contempt case against a third party, a Los Angeles family law attorney can help you understand the steps you need to settle your…
Read MoreIs There a Difference Between Joint Custody and Shared Custody in California?
The states use different terms to describe the allocation of parental rights and responsibilities in divorce, legal separation, and other child custody cases. If you find yourself confused about the legal language California applies to child custody situations, the following may provide some clarity. However, this article is no substitute for the advice of an experienced Los Angeles child custody attorney. Child Custody in California There are two types of…
Read MoreDoes California Have Permanent Spousal Support?
California has both temporary and permanent spousal support. Temporary spousal support is awarded during the pendency of a divorce. Permanent spousal support is awarded as part of a final divorce decree. Permanent spousal support is also called long-term spousal support in California and is not necessarily “permanent.” However, it often lasts several years. Spouses may agree on a support amount, or the court may determine an amount based on the…
Read MoreHow to Make an Effective Parenting Plan
Making an effective parenting plan can be a challenge. Doing so takes time, patience, and the cooperation of your co-parent. It also requires basic research skills and legal knowledge. The following is a guide to building your California parenting plan but is by no means a substitute for the advice of an experienced child custody attorney. What is a Parenting Plan? A parenting plan in California is a custody and…
Read MoreDoes Separation Always End in Divorce?
If you are contemplating a legal separation from your spouse, you may be curious about the risks and benefits of living apart. For instance, will legal separation automatically lead to divorce? While everyone’s marriage is unique, studies show that less than 15% of couples reconcile after a separation. Both spouses must work together to mend a marriage. Whereas only one spouse must choose divorce to terminate a legal union. What…
Read MoreWhat are Arrears?
Child support attorneys often refer to past due or back child support as arrears. California DCSS defines arrearages as “The unpaid child support payments for past periods owed by a parent who is obligated to pay by court order. The arrears or arrearage or arrearages include interest and are adjusted for the amount of any partial satisfaction of the judgment.” When a parent misses a court-ordered child support payment, they…
Read More