Child Custody

At Ashley A. Andrews, APC, we understand that when it comes to child support and custody matters, it can be difficult to know what is in the best interest of your children. We are committed to helping our clients find solutions tailored to their individual circumstances surrounding child support. We specialize in navigating the complexities of California family law so you can have peace of mind knowing your rights and interests are protected.

Physical vs. Legal Custody

When it comes to child custody arrangements, there are two types: physical custody and legal custody. Physical custody involves providing day-to-day care for a child or children, while legal custody is the right to make decisions regarding their wellbeing. An agreement between parents outside of court can settle child custody matters, or if no agreement can be reached then an arrangement may need to be approved by a judge through filing with the court.

Is California strict on child support?

In regards to child support in California, the state takes such matters seriously as they are necessary for providing a secure future for a child’s basic needs. The court will assess both parties’ incomes and abilities in order to determine an amount that must be paid. Child support is based on guidelines established by law in California and varies depending on income levels, family size, age of the children and other factors.

California is strict when it comes to child support laws and calculating payments according to a guideline set by law based on each parent’s income, number of children and other expenses associated with their care (e.g., daycare). It's important to note that these guidelines may not always fit each family's circumstances, so consulting with our legal team is highly recommended if you believe any adjustment should be made before signing a final agreement.

What affects child support in California?

Circumstances surrounding child custody can range from a parent moving away or domestic violence issues. No matter the issue, we are here to provide personalized legal representation tailored to your individual situation and always take into consideration the best interest of your children when making decisions in court. We also focus on resolving issues through negotiation rather than litigation, whenever possible.

Child custody in California is determined by two factors: an agreement between the parents outside of the court or an agreement that has been signed by a judge and filed with the court. If both parties cannot reach an agreement, then a decision will be made by a judge who takes into account what would be in the best interest for the children.

What is the most common child custody arrangement?

At Ashley A. Andrews, APC we understand the complexities of family law, especially when it comes to child custody. In California, each parent is typically granted either joint or sole legal and physical custody, depending on the best interests of the child and circumstances of the parents.

Our experienced attorneys have dealt with many difficult circumstances surrounding child custody such as moving away or domestic violence issues. We take an understanding approach to these cases in order to protect both you and your child’s best interests while providing clear and detailed advice throughout the process.

California has a strict set of laws when it comes to enforcing payment for court-ordered child support, with both financial sanctions and imprisonment as potential punishments for non-payment. In California, both parents are legally obligated to financially provide for their children’s needs until they reach age 18, unless a judge orders otherwise.

Child support is typically established through an agreement between parents outside of the court, however if there is no agreement then a judge may order payment via an agreement signed by them and filed with the court. Child support can also be modified after initial decisions if conditions warrant such action - like a significant change in income level or living arrangements.

How is child support determined in California?

Our law firm stays up-to-date on child custody laws to give you the best legal support possible. Child custody can be determined by:

• An agreement between parents outside of the court system

• An agreement signed by a judge and filed with the court system

• A decision made by a judge

Generally, the court calculates payments based on both parent’s incomes, time spent with each parent (custody arrangement), any special needs the child may have such as medical bills or educational costs; how much was previously paid by either parent; whether either parent has another family; and what local standards state are appropriate amounts of money to be given in support.

When you're dealing with the aftermath of a divorce or separation, you want your child to have the care and support they need. At Ashley A. Andrews, APC our dedicated attorneys will assess your unique situation to help you understand all legal aspects surrounding your case - including possible outcomes and/or negotiations available to you so that you can make informed decisions on what works best for your family's specific needs and circumstance. We have experience navigating complex issues regarding custody agreements so you can feel secure knowing that we have your best interests in mind every step of the way.