Child Custody & Visitation in California
Custody Lawyers in Upland
Child custody disputes are often among the most painful aspects of a divorce or
legal separation. The experienced Upland family attorneys at the Law Offices of Heidi Romeo & Associates understand that navigating child custody laws can be confusing and stressful - particularly when one parent is unable to trust, co-parent, or communicate with the other.
How is custody decided?
In California, custody orders are based on the best interest of the child regarding their health, safety, and welfare, as required by California Family Code § 3020. While this is a straightforward concept, presenting the relevant information about the child's care can prove challenging. The court considers joint custody to be the best situation for every child, if possible. Toward that end, after eliminating the possibility of any past history of child abuse, drug use, or domestic violence in the household, the court considers which parent seems more likely to promote visits with the other parent and often takes into account the wishes of the child as well.
The family law attorneys at the Law Offices of Heidi Romeo & Associates seek to hear their clients' concerns and familiarize themselves with each unique situation. If necessary, they will interview witnesses or subpoena records such as educational or medical information; seek to appoint an expert to conduct psychological custodial evaluations; pursue orders to interview the child; or take whatever legal action they deem necessary for the protection of you and your child.
Modifying a Final Custody Order
In order to modify a final custody order, the court examines whether or not there is a "significant" change of circumstances. The attorneys at the Law Offices of Heidi Romeo & Associates can help assess whether the evidence you can present might be enough to cause the court to approve a modification.
If not, the firm may be able to help you find issues that could be addressed and resolved, such as post-judgment requests for co-parenting classes, anger management classes, restricted alcohol consumption, a review of inappropriate living or sleeping conditions, or a review of corporal punishment.
Need help with child custody or visitation in Upland, California?
In every child custody or visitation case they accept, the Upland divorce attorneys at the Law Offices of Heidi Romeo & Associates work to collect all the information they need to prepare the appropriate strategy and ensure that the court understands the nature of the case. They prepare every client for the emotionally charged court appearances and aggressively represent them in court. Whenever possible, they strive to resolve cases without the emotional and financial cost of litigation.
The Martindale-Hubbell® AV Rated® attorneys at the firm are prepared to stand beside you and guide you through the legal complexities of child custody and visitation laws in the state of California. Contact the Law Offices of Heidi Romeo & Associates today for a personal consultation with a knowledgeable family lawyer.