Newport Beach Child Custody Attorney

A father can lose custody in California if the court finds that he is violating his child custody orders and it is not in the child's best interests.

Violating a custody order for a variety of reasons can include:

• Abuse or neglect. If a father has abused or neglected his child, the court may determine he is not fit to have custody. This includes physical abuse, sexual abuse, and emotional abuse. It also includes neglect, such as failing to provide food, shelter, or medical care.
• Domestic violence. If a father has been involved in domestic violence, the court may be concerned that he will also be violent toward his children. This includes physical violence, sexual violence, and emotional abuse.
• Substance abuse. If a father has a substance abuse problem, the court may be concerned that he cannot care for his children properly. This includes issues with alcohol, drugs, and gambling.
• Mental illness. If a father has a severe mental illness, the court may be concerned that he cannot properly care for his children. This includes conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depression.
• Criminal history. If a father has a criminal record, the court may be concerned that he will be a danger to his children. This includes convictions for violent crimes, sexual crimes, and drug offenses.
• Inability to provide a stable home. If a father cannot provide a stable home for his children, the court may determine that it is not in the children's best interests to live with him. This could include situations where the father is homeless, has a history of moving frequently, or has a chaotic lifestyle.
• Unable to cooperate with the other parent. If a father is unwilling to cooperate with the other parent in matters relating to the children, the court may determine that it is not in the children's best interests to live with him. This could include situations where the father refuses to communicate with the other parent, interferes with the other parent's parenting time, or makes false accusations against the other parent.

It is important to note that these are just reasons a father may lose custody in California. The court will consider each case's facts and circumstances when deciding custody.

Understanding the Child Custody Process in Newport Beach

Navigating the child custody process can be overwhelming, especially during emotionally charged times. At Burch Shepard Family Law Group, we believe that knowledge is power. Understanding the steps involved in a custody case can help ease your concerns and prepare you for what lies ahead.

Here’s a brief overview of the child custody process:

1. Initial Consultation: During this meeting, we will discuss your unique situation, gather necessary information, and outline potential strategies.
2. Filing for Custody: If you decide to move forward, we will help you file the appropriate legal documents to initiate the custody proceedings.
3. Mediation: Many custody cases require mediation, where both parents can discuss their wishes and concerns with a neutral third party to reach an agreement.
4. Court Hearings: If mediation does not result in an agreement, your case may proceed to court, where a judge will make the final decision based on the best interests of the child.
5. Final Custody Order: Once a decision is made, a custody order will be issued, detailing the terms of custody and visitation.

Throughout this process, our dedicated team is here to provide guidance, support, and representation to ensure your voice is heard and your child’s best interests are prioritized. Don't hesitate to reach out to us for advice tailored to your specific circumstances.

Local Support for Child Custody & Visitation Matters in Newport Beach

Living in Newport Beach, you are part of a vibrant community that values family and well-being. When dealing with child custody or visitation issues, it's essential to have a legal team that understands the unique aspects of our local area. At Burch Shepard Family Law Group, we are deeply familiar with the local resources and government entities that can play a role in your case.

For instance, the Orange County Family Court Services offers mediation services that can help parents reach amicable visitation agreements. Additionally, the Newport Beach Police Department and local child protective services are crucial resources in cases involving safety concerns or violations of visitation orders.

Guiding Clients from Beginning to End in Newport Beach

Newport Beach parents often face specific challenges, such as balancing busy work schedules or dealing with the high cost of living, which can impact child custody arrangements. We understand these local pain points and are here to provide tailored solutions that work for you and your family.

Whether you live near the bustling Newport Center or the serene Balboa Peninsula, our team is committed to helping you navigate the complexities of visitation matters. We know the local landscape and are prepared to advocate for your rights and your child's best interests.

Choose Burch Shepard Family Law Group for thorough and compassionate legal services. We dedicated to supporting Newport Beach families every step of the way.