Walnut Creek, California Child Custody Lawyer

It is important to know that the court does not always rule in favor of the mother in matters of child custody and visitation. In reality, both parents today are treated as equally important in a child's life.

The Law Office of Maria Caroline Engfelt counsels clients facing difficult child custody issues including:

• Obtaining custody
• Custody disputes
• Move-away requests
• Interstate custody
• Child abduction
• Grandparent visitation

Please contact the Walnut Creek, California firm today to speak with a compassionate child custody attorney.

Child custody disputes typically arise when parents are trying to decide how to share custody. Ideally, the child should be able to spend equal time with both parents, provided both are healthy and there are no issues of drug abuse or domestic violence.

Mediation is required in every child custody and visitation case. This is done to minimize conflict and protect the best interests of the child by letting the parents, rather than the court, decide on living arrangements. The parents first attend an orientation at which they will learn about the process and schedule a date for the mediation. At the actual mediation, attorneys are not allowed and the parties will discuss their issues in the presence of a neutral mediator. Ms. Engfelt always prepares her clients for the mediation. Please note if there is a history of domestic violence the parties will be able to attend separate mediation sessions. 

California public policy dictates that it is in the best interests of a child to be with both parents. However, if a parent attempts to distance a child from the other parent, it may hurt their custody chances. For example, if a parent takes their child to another state without notifying the other parent, they will receive orders to move back to what is considered the home state of the child and may have trouble acquiring or maintaining custody as their actions could be deemed contrary to the child's best interests.

If the parties have never been married but have children, the custody and support are determined through a paternity action. California public policy dictates that both parties share in the responsibility for the child. It is worth noting that contrary to popular belief, fathers are equally entitled to custody and support.

The Law Office of Maria Caroline Engfelt always takes great care to inform clients that mothers do not automatically prevail in child custody cases and that plenty of good fathers obtain custody of their children. Please contact the firm today to schedule a free consultation.

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Law Office of Maria Caroline Engfelt
2950 Buskirk Avenue, Suite 315
Walnut Creek, CA 94597
Tel: 925-262-8432
Fax: 925-262-8428