When Custody Battles Flare Across State Lines

Fighting for the Best Interests of Your Child

What can already be a contentious issue between parties in a divorce is further complicated if more than one state could have jurisdiction over child custody and visitation. Establishing jurisdiction in the right state is very important because it is later found that jurisdiction was improper, the case that was already resolved could be thrown out and required to renegotiate or litigate the terms of a divorce in the proper jurisdiction. Essentially, taking the time to establish the correct jurisdiction in interstate child custody cases is equally as important as making sure your attorney is experienced in working with multistate divorce cases.

At the Burch Shepard Family Law Group, our team of divorce lawyers is led by three attorneys, all recognized as Certified Family Law Specialists by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization. With extensive knowledge and experience, our lawyers can help you get through even the most intricate and complex of interstate child custody issues. To discuss your interstate custody and visitation case with one of our Newport Beach lawyers, please contact us online.

Out-Of-State Child Custody Battles

In order to establish a uniform approach to interstate child custody issues and jurisdictional matters, the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act (UCCJA) was created. Each state has adopted its own version of the UCCJA and there may be slight variations. However, in general a child's home state or the state he or she has "significant connections" with is the state that has jurisdiction over all legal proceedings related to the divorce. A child's "home state" is the state he or she resided in for the last six months.

If your divorce involves more than one state, our attorneys are highly skilled in representing clients with interstate child custody issues. We will help you seek jurisdiction in the state that is most advantageous for your situation and in the best interests of your child.

Contact Us For Skilled Legal Representation

At the Burch Shepard Family Law Group, our interstate child custody attorneys have all focused exclusively on California family law throughout their careers. Our Newport Beach family law attorneys are dedicated to seeking the best possible result for you and your child.

To schedule a consultation with us to start discussing your goals and best options, please call us today at (949) 565-4158.