Articles Posted in Paternity

Understanding Ex Parte Child Custody Orders

Understanding Ex Parte Child Custody Orders

Ex parte proceedings, also called emergency proceedings, are filed when an immediate decision needs to be made in a family law case because of an emergency situation. An ex parte order is an emergency and temporary order. They may be necessary in divorce proceedings, child custody determinations, and domestic violence cases.

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Establishing Paternity in California

Establishing Paternity in California

Establishing paternity is necessary for many unmarried couples to gain essential parental rights and responsibilities for their children. Paternity allows both parents to have rights to custody and visitation, along with the responsibility to financially support their child. It also allows children to get financial insurance benefits and inheritance rights from both of their parents. There are several ways that parents can establish the paternity of their children.

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When Do Courts Deem a Parent Unfit for Visitation or Custody?

When Do Courts Deem a Parent Unfit for Visitation or Custody?

Child custody is a stressful time in any parent’s life, whether it is part of a divorce proceeding or the result of separation. In a custody determination, most parents want as much time as they can get with their children. The court will always make a custody and visitation decision based on the child’s interests. When a parent is deemed unfit, they will likely be unable to have child custody rights.

The term “unfit parent” doesn’t refer to imperfect parenting. Instead, it’s a legal term that applies when a parent cannot provide safety and care for their child.

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Proving Parental Alienation in California Child Custody Cases

Proving Parental Alienation in California Child Custody Cases

Divorce or parental separation is a difficult time for any family. Though many families try to work with each other, this isn’t always the case. There are unfortunate situations where one parent attempts to harm the relationship between the child and the other parent. These attempts can be considered parental alienation if the child rejects or estranges themselves from that parent.

Many parents see children pull themselves away emotionally after separation because it’s also difficult for kids. In most cases, it just takes time and understanding. For some parents, however, those bonds don’t heal because of the manipulative tactics of their co-parents. Parental alienation can be minor or severe. It’s essential to understand how that impacts your family and what you can do about it if you’re a parent who suspects your child is being intentionally distanced from you.

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Benefits of Mediation for Child Custody Decisions

Benefits of Mediation for Child Custody Decisions

Mediation for child custody determination allows parents to agree on their children’s care and well-being with the help of a neutral third party. Disputes and litigation about child custody can be lengthy, overwhelming, and difficult for children and parents. Mediation is an alternative way to handle child custody. Child custody can be mediated as part of divorce mediation, or it can be done separately. Couples who divorce through litigation can still negotiate a custody agreement through mediation.

In California, mediation attendance is required for child custody and only goes to court if an agreement can’t be reached. Mediation is not always the right option for every couple who is separating. However, there are several benefits to mediation.

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When Can an Ex-Spouse Pay More in Child Support in California?

When Can an Ex-Spouse Pay More in Child Support in California?

Separation or divorce with minor children involves parenting plans, child custody, visitation schedules, and child support. In California, child support is largely based on each parent’s income. Child support orders can be modified after they’ve been finalized for a significant life change, and payments can be increased or decreased. Changing the child support payments could be justified if one parent receives a significant raise.

Child support payments are created to ensure that both parents provide financial support to their children and that children have similar living standards in each home. Child support also attempts to maintain a standard of living equal to the standard before separation.

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Guardianship and Conservatorship in California: Safeguarding Vulnerable Loved Ones

Guardianship and Conservatorship in California: Safeguarding Vulnerable Loved Ones

The legal frameworks of guardianship and conservatorship in California are crucial for protecting the well-being of vulnerable individuals who cannot care for themselves. These legal safeguards empower responsible people to make decisions on behalf of those unable to manage their own affairs, ensuring their safety and well-being. By understanding guardianship and conservatorship in California, you will be better prepared to determine the top solution and family law attorney for your loved ones needing assistance.

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What to Include in a Parenting Plan

What to Include in a Parenting Plan

Parenting plans in California are flexible because the court prefers that parents work together on a schedule. There are guidelines for plans, but they can adapt to the specific needs of a family. A judge will ensure the children’s interests are put first in the parenting plan you set forward.

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How to Resolve Contested Divorce Mediation

How to Resolve Contested Divorce Mediation

Many divorcing couples in California are taking advantage of alternative dispute resolution to save time and money on their divorce cases. Divorce mediation has quickly grown to be the most popular form of alternative dispute resolution, allowing divorcing spouses to resolve their dissolutions under the supervision and direction of a neutral mediator. However, while many choose alternative dispute resolution to avoid the time investment, stress, and expense that divorce litigation demands, the reality is that even divorce mediation can devolve into a hotly contested legal battle.

It’s important to remember that divorce mediation only requires both you and your spouse to be willing to negotiate. Even if the two of you have trouble having the most basic civil discussions, you can still take advantage of the benefits of divorce mediation when you have legal counsel you can trust.

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What Are the Main Elements of a California Divorce?

What Are the Main Elements of a California Divorce?

Divorce is always challenging, but it is also often more complex than many realize as they begin their dissolution proceedings. Regardless of the reason for your divorce or the apparent complexity of the issues you believe you face, it’s vital to have legal representation as you navigate your divorce so you are prepared to meet the various challenges your case presents. While every divorce is unique, there are a few foundational elements that all divorces must cover.

As you search for a California family law attorney to represent you, it’s vital to evaluate the core issues of your divorce. At Bickford Blado & Botros, we provide our prospective clients with the information they need to make informed decisions about their family law cases. The following are the core elements of most modern divorces in California.

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