Navigating a co-parenting relationship can be very difficult. If you’re seeking sole custody of your child in Beverly Hills, California, it’s important to have the right legal representation to help navigate the complexities of California family law.
At Berenji & Associates Divorce Lawyers, our Beverly Hills sole child custody lawyers can guide you through every step of the legal process to ensure your child’s best interests are protected. You can contact us online or call (213) 277-2586 today.
How Berenji & Associates Divorce Lawyers Can Help with Your Sole Child Custody Case in Beverly Hills, CA
If you’re facing a sole child custody case in Beverly Hills, CA, our team at Berenji & Associates has the experience and knowledge you need to ensure the best outcome for you and your child. Sole custody cases can be emotionally charged and legally complicated, but our team is here to provide support, expert legal advice, and aggressive representation to help you achieve your goals.
With over 45 years of combined experience, our attorneys are ready to help fight for your child’s best interests. Members of our Beverly Hills child custody lawyers have been recognized as a Top-Rated Family Law Attorney by Super Lawyers, a Top 30 Matrimonial and Family Law Attorney by America’s Premier Attorneys, and on the list of the National Trial Lawyers Top 100 attorneys.
California law emphasizes the importance of the child’s best interests, and we are committed to advocating for your rights as a parent. Whether you are seeking sole physical custody, sole legal custody, or both, our skilled Beverly Hills sole child custody attorneys will tailor a strategy to your unique circumstances.
What is Sole Custody?
Sole custody refers to a child custody arrangement in which one parent is granted physical custody and/or legal custody of the child alone. Physical custody refers to where the child primarily resides while legal custody refers to the right to make important decisions about the child’s upbringing, including decisions related to education, healthcare, and religion.
In California, the courts favor custody arrangements that are in the best interests of the child, and sole custody is typically granted when it is determined that the child would benefit from a stable environment under one parent’s care.
Sole custody allows the parent to make decisions without needing the approval or involvement of the other parent. However, sole custody is generally only granted when it’s clear that it is in the child’s best interest.
When is Sole Custody Granted in California?
California courts may grant sole custody in cases where it is in the best interests of the child.
Sole custody is typically considered when:
- One Parent is Unfit – If one parent has a history of abuse, neglect, addiction, or mental health issues that would harm the child, the court may find it necessary to grant sole custody to the other parent.
- Parental Conflict – If the parents are unable to co-parent effectively due to constant conflict, the court may find it in the child’s best interest to award sole custody to one parent.
- Child’s Preference – In some cases, a child may express a preference to live with one parent. However, the child’s age, maturity, and reasons for their preference will be considered before a decision is made.
California Family Code § 3040 dictates that courts will consider the emotional ties between the child and each parent, the parents’ ability to care for the child, and the child’s needs when determining custody arrangements. In these cases, the child’s safety and well-being will always be the most important factor.
How Long Is Sole Custody Granted?
Sole custody is not permanent and may be subject to change. In California, custody arrangements are periodically reviewed and if circumstances change—such as the non-custodial parent becoming more involved in the child’s life or addressing previous issues—the court may modify the custody order.
If you wish to modify your custody arrangement, it’s essential to show the court that there has been a significant change in circumstances. It’s also important to note that the child’s best interests will always be the determining factor in any changes to the custody arrangement.
How Does Joint Custody Differ from Sole Custody?
Joint custody and sole custody differ primarily in how parental responsibilities and decision-making are shared between parents:
- Joint Custody: Both parents share physical and/or legal custody. The child typically splits time between both parents’ homes, and both parents have the right to make decisions about the child’s welfare.
- Sole Custody: One parent has physical and/or legal custody, making decisions independently without the need for the other parent’s consent.
It is often presumed that joint custody is in the best interest of the child, though sole custody may be granted when circumstances warrant it.
Factors the Court Considers When Granting Sole Custody
When considering a sole custody arrangement, California courts take into account several factors, including:
- The Health and Safety of the Child: The court prioritizes the child’s physical and emotional well-being when determining custody.
- Parental Ability to Care for the Child: The court will assess each parent’s ability to provide a stable and supportive environment.
- History of Abuse or Neglect: If either parent has a history of abuse, substance abuse, or neglect, this will significantly affect the court’s decision.
- Child’s Relationship with Each Parent: The court considers how the child interacts with each parent, including emotional bonds, history of caregiving, and the child’s preference (if age-appropriate).
Ultimately, the court’s goal is to ensure that the child’s best interests are met in the custody arrangement.
Schedule a Case Evaluation Today with an Experienced Beverly Hills Sole Child Custody Lawyer
If you’re facing a sole child custody case in Beverly Hills, California, it’s essential to have an experienced attorney by your side. Contact Berenji & Associates Divorce Attorneys today to schedule a free case evaluation. Our team of Beverly Hills sole child custody lawyers is here to provide you with the guidance and legal support you need. Contact us today to schedule your evaluation.