Child Custody and Visitation

Protecting Children Throughout California

In any child custody or visitation discussion, the primary question should be, "What is in the best interest of my children?" At the Law Offices of William M. Strachan in Huntington Beach, California, we understand that child custody disputes can be emotional for any family. That is why it is important to contact us to speak to a lawyer early on in the process.

The overriding principle a family law court uses in resolving a divorce concerning a child is by looking at the child's best interest. Courts presume that a stable home life and a relationship with both parents are in a child's best interest.

A parenting plan is an agreement between you and your spouse that clearly spells out physical custody (a person who makes the majority of decisions for a child), legal custody (ability to make important decisions for a child), and visitation. We will advise you of all your options and the best method to protect your parental rights.

Modification and Enforcement Issues

Families continue to change even after a court finalizes a divorce. We both represent and defend people in modification and enforcement hearings. The success of a modification or enforcement proceeding may depend on how clearly the child custody agreement is written. Complications arise when the meaning of an order can be subjected to various interpretations.

Depending on what child custody or visitation agreement you seek to modify, the court will use a variety of different standards for a move away or relocation.  If you have sole physical custody, the law allows you to move as long as you do not have a whimsical reason and the noncustodial parent cannot demonstrate that the move would be detrimental to the relationship with his children.  If you have joint physical custody, the court will have a new trial on what is in the best interest of the monor children.

Speak to an attorney to learn more about child custody and visitation agreements. Contact us at the Law Offices of William M. Strachan for a free initial consultation about your divorce. We represent clients throughout California, including those in Santa Ana, Anaheim, and Orange County.