Family Law

When grandparents find themselves amidst a family rift that results in having their contact with grandchildren cut off, it is common for the grandparent to consider filing a lawsuit in order to regain visitation rights to their grandkids. Family Law Attorney Wail Sarieh explains what you need to know about grandparents’ legal rights regarding having contact with their grandchildren, and what you need to consider if you are thinking about taking legal action after being cut off from your grandkids. Do Grandparents Have Legal Rights to See Their Grandchildren? California…

Sometimes single parents and parents with serious health conditions must think about temporary or permanent guardianship options for their kids. Legal guardianship allows a parent to formally relinquish control and care of a child to another person. It is sometimes possible for a guardian to change a temporary guardianship to full guardianship. Because guardianship laws are different in every state, and the courts are likely to rule in favor of the child's best interests, it's important to work closely with a dedicated family law firm in Orange County throughout the…

Far too often in our time, grandparents are kept out of their grandchildren’s lives, especially after events like legal separation and divorce. In many of these situations, grandparents in southern California will need the advice and services of an Orange County family law attorney. In a common scenario, a divorced parent with custody may prevent an ex-spouse’s parents from visiting their grandchild or grandchildren after a divorce or separation. In some cases, grandparents may even be concerned for the physical safety of their grandchildren. If you have any grandchildren in…

If you are a parent, nothing in this world is more important than your relationship with your child or children. When a court involuntarily terminates a parent's parental rights, it's one of the most serious actions a court can take. You're about to learn exactly why the courts in California may act to terminate a parent's rights, how an adoption law firm can help, and how that very drastic legal procedure works In a parent-child relationship, parents have both legal rights and legal responsibilities. Both parents have the right to…

In the past, the parental rights of unmarried fathers were either ignored or given little consideration by the courts, and few unmarried fathers were prepared to fight for their parental rights. In recent years, however, unmarried fathers have more frequently insisted on exercising their legal rights, and the courts have been affirming those rights. This is where a child custody attorney can help. Today, of course, unmarried parents share many of the same legal challenges that divorced parents face when it comes to child custody, visitation, and support issues. In…

California Family Code 2030 is one of the most important laws governing divorce (as well as annulments and legal separations) in this state. Family Code 2030 is designed to make California's divorce process fair and just for everyone involved by ensuring that both spouses have equal access to the courts and to legal representation. This general overview of Family Code 2030 should help you understand the law and the divorce process in California, but if you are divorcing or anticipating a divorce, you will still need to obtain legal advice…

Domestic partnerships are established under California law when two partners of the same sex share one another’s living quarters in an intimate and committed relationship that features mutual caring. These partners can enter into a registered domestic partnership through the California Secretary of State by filing a Declaration of Domestic Partnership. Registered domestic partners have the same rights and protections as married spouses – but with that comes a difficult process when the partnership needs to dissolve. Residency Requirements In order to file for a dissolution of your domestic partnership,…

Quick Answer If you suspect your co-parent is abusing drugs in California, document all evidence immediately and consult a family law attorney. California Family Code allows you to file for emergency custody modifications or supervised visitation to protect your child. You’ll need proof such as toxicology reports, witness testimony, or evidence of substance abuse. The courts prioritize the child’s best interests and safety above parental rights when substance abuse is involved. Key Takeaways California courts can modify custody arrangements when substance abuse threatens a child’s safety or well-being. You must…

When parents divorce, they are required by the state of California to make custody arrangements for any of their children who are minors. These arrangements must be in the best interest of the child – not the parents. The custody arrangements will specifically address the legal and physical custody determinations, and how much time each parent will spend with the children. A move-away lawyer in Orange County can help. Legal custody is what grants each parent the ability to make decisions on behalf of the child, which includes decisions involving…