Access to children is often one of the most important and emotional issues for divorcing parents. Divorcing parents are often unable to agree on how custody and visitation should be handled, or even experience parental alienation. When these issues are going to be decided by the court, it is very important to retain an experienced child custody lawyer.
How California Looks At Child Custody
In California, courts presume that parents will share joint legal custody of their children and the responsibility of making decisions on their children’s behalf. Physical custody of the children can be shared, or one parent may have primary custody with the other parent having visitation.
It is generally better for the children if a custody agreement can be negotiated. However, when parents cannot reach an agreement and the court has to determine the custody issues, they are required to attend custody mediation with Family Court Services. Whenever there is a dispute between parents regarding their children, the issue for the court is not who is a good parent or bad parent, but what parenting plan is in the best interest of the children.
Preparing For Child Custody Mediation
As a certified family law specialist, Kate Rockas has worked closely with many clients to develop parenting plans that best meet the needs of their children. When custody and visitation issues must be decided by the court, the judges rely heavily on the recommendations of the Family Court Services mediator. For this reason, it is important to be prepared for mediation with Family Court Services. Since lawyers and judges cannot be present during these mediation sessions, attorney Rockas works with clients so that they know exactly what to expect and how to most effectively present their perspective to the Family Court Services mediator.
If your circumstances should change, Kate Rockas can initiate a change in the child custody order. A new partner, different job or new home can all mean that the parenting plan should be modified. As the children get older, their needs, interests and activities also evolve.
Protect Your Parental Visitation Rights, Schedule A Consultation
If you have child custody and visitation issues and need the advice of an experienced and responsive lawyer, call Kate Rockas in San Rafael to schedule a consultation at 415-578-1844. You may also reach the firm via email by completing the online form.
