Redondo Beach Child Custody Lawyer

Child Custody Attorney in Redondo Beach, CA

Child custody cases can be highly emotional. The need for a child custody agreement could result from a pending divorce, separation, or reviewing and updating an existing arrangement. Regardless of the circumstances, you need to consider what is in the best interest of the child, which can be difficult under emotionally charged circumstances. A Redondo Beach child custody lawyer can help you draft an agreement that benefits the child.

Hire a Child Custody Lawyer

When you hire a child custody lawyer, you need someone who understands the unique challenges families face in court. At Rombro & Manley LLP, our local law firm has over 65 years of combined experience, representing California families in all manner of family law cases. We have two Board-Certified Family Law Specialists who can handle your case. Our team practices locally, so we understand the specific local, state, and federal laws that could impact your case.

Child Custody in the United States

Child custody arrangements are necessary in situations where both parents do not live in the same household. During 2022, the United States Census Bureau found that 22.2 million children under the age of 21 lived in a household with only one biological parent. Roughly 13.9 million parents were named custodial parents of children under age 21. Of these custodial parents, 78.2% were mothers, and 21.8% were fathers.

In Redondo Beach, according to data from the 2024 census, there were a total of 27,794 households. Of these, 10% were female-headed, while 3% were male-headed. Additionally, of the 68,087 residents of Redondo Beach, 9% of males and 13% of females were divorced as of 2024. If you need to file for a formal child custody agreement in Redondo Beach, these matters are handled by the Los Angeles County Superior Court at either the Stanley Mosk Courthouse in Los Angeles or the Torrance Courthouse in Torrance.

Types of Child Custody

When both parents do not share the same household, they should have a formal parenting plan in place with the court that allocates parenting time. Parenting plans should always consider the best interests of the child. Two types of custody must be decided:

1. Legal custody. The parent with legal custody has the right to make important life decisions that affect the child. This parent can decide which school the child attends, which extracurricular activities they can engage with, where and if they attend church, and where they receive medical care.
2. Physical custody. The parent with physical custody is the one with whom the child lives for the majority of the time. This parent decides the day-to-day activities of the child.

Both forms of custody can be granted as either joint or sole custody. Joint custody means that both parents have equal say in the child’s activities. Conversely, sole custody means that only one parent has decision-making abilities for the child.

When one parent has sole physical custody of the child, the other parent is often granted visitation rights. Several types of visitation could be granted, including:

• Scheduled. A set schedule is made for when each parent has time with the child. Holidays, special occasions, and important family dates can be agreed upon in advance.
• Reasonable. This is also called an open-ended agreement. It allows the parents to work out visitation schedules between themselves.
• Supervised. This form of visitation means that the non-custodial parent does not have the right to be alone with the child. These arrangements could be temporary or long-term.
• No visitation. This can be mandated if the non-custodial parent is considered a threat to the child.

FAQs About Redondo Beach, CA Child Custody Laws

What Is the Biggest Mistake in a Custody Battle?

Several mistakes can negatively affect your chances of receiving custody of your minor children. California takes evidence of parental alienation very seriously, so it will often limit custody arrangements when one parent interferes with the other parent’s relationship with the child. Disregarding the best interests of the child or violating court orders can also negatively affect a custody battle.

What Deems a Parent Unfit in California?

Any behavior that could put the child in danger could be used to name a parent unfit. Judges look for any history of abuse or neglect of the child, along with any history of substance abuse or domestic violence. If a parent is unable or unwilling to meet the basic needs of the child, they could be deemed unfit. Erratic or criminal behaviors are also indicators of an unfit parent.

How Can a Parent Lose Custody in California?

In California, a parent can lose custody of a minor child for several reasons. If the child is exposed to significant health or safety risks, such as neglect or mental health issues, they may be removed from that parent’s custody. Legal violations, such as violating a court order, can lead to a parent losing custody. Custody may be reconsidered if the custodial parent leaves the child with a non-parent or the non-custodial parent for an extended period of time.

What Do Judges Use to Determine Custody?

When determining custody, the main goal is to act in the best interests of the child. Judges use several factors when deciding which arrangement would be most favorable for the child. If the child is old enough and shows maturity, they can express a preference for the judge to consider. Characteristics such as mental fitness, the ability to provide for the child, and the emotional bonds between the parent and child are also considered.

What Rights Does a Father Have in California?

A father’s rights in California depend on whether they have been legally recognized as the father of any minor children. Married fathers are automatically recognized as the father for any children born during the marriage. Unmarried fathers must establish paternity before they can exercise their paternal rights. Recognized fathers have the same rights to custody and child support as mothers. California courts tend to favor 50/50 custody.

Contact a Redondo Beach Child Custody Attorney at Rombro & Manley LLP

When you work with one of our highly trained attorneys, you not only benefit from their years of experience, but you also benefit from the security of having an established team to handle your current and any future family law needs. We believe in building relationships with our clients so you can feel welcome any time you need our services. Contact Rombro & Manley LLP today to schedule your initial consultation.