Child Custody | San Diego Family Law Blog - Part 3
Understanding Emergency Custody in San Diego: When and How to File
When your child’s safety is at risk, waiting for a court hearing isn’t an option. That’s why California law provides a mechanism for parents to request emergency custody when a child is in immediate danger.
Can Custody Arrangements Change for Summer Break in San Diego?
Summer break brings welcome freedom for kids, but it can also bring legal and emotional challenges for parents sharing custody.Whether you’re planning a vacation, adjusting for work schedules, or dealing with new conflicts, understanding how to handle a summer custody schedule change in San Diego is essential for protecting your time with your children—and staying in compliance with your court order.
How Domestic Violence Impacts Child Custody in San Diego Courts
If you’re going through a custody battle in San Diego and domestic violence is involved, the court will take your case extremely seriously. California family courts are required by law to prioritize the safety of children and the non-abusive parent. That means proof or allegations of abuse can significantly impact custody and visitation decisions.
Fighting for Family: How Grandparents Can Gain Custody in California
In recent years, more grandparents across California have stepped in to raise their grandchildren when the children’s parents are unable or unfit to do so.
How to File for Emergency Custody in San Diego
When a child is in immediate danger or at serious risk, waiting weeks or months for a standard court hearing simply isn’t an option.
Want to Change Your Custody Order in San Diego? Here’s What You Must Show
When a court finalizes a child custody agreement, it does so with the child’s best interests in mind. But life is unpredictable. A parenting plan that was working well can become outdated as children grow and family dynamics change.
Relocating with a Child After Divorce in San Diego: Legal Tips
Relocating with your child after a divorce isn’t just about packing boxes and starting fresh. It’s a legal process that must be approached with care and strategic planning, especially in California.
Whether you’re considering a move for a new job opportunity, to be closer to family, or for personal well-being, understanding move-away custody laws in California is essential.read more
Understanding Grandparents’ Rights After a Parent’s Death in California
When a child loses a parent, the trauma extends beyond the immediate family. For grandparents, the grief is coupled with a deep concern about their grandchild’s well-being and future.
In California, grandparents do have legal avenues to remain actively involved in their grandchild’s life, whether they’re seeking custody or simply hoping to maintain visitation. Understanding these rights can be the first step toward providing critical stability and care during an emotionally turbulent time.read more
Top Mistakes to Avoid in a San Diego Custody Battle
Custody battles can be emotionally draining, legally complex, and life-altering for both parents and children. At Mattis Law, A.P.C., we’ve seen how avoidable errors can negatively impact even the most well-meaning parents.
That’s why we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to the top child custody mistakes San Diego parents should avoid. Whether you’re just beginning the process or are in the middle of a contested dispute, avoiding these common missteps is critical to protecting your parental rights and building a stable future for your child.read more
What Judges Look for in a San Diego Child Custody Case
When a custody dispute lands in a San Diego courtroom, parents often ask: “What are the judges really looking for?”
The reality is that family court judges are tasked with making deeply personal, impactful decisions—ones that shape a child’s life for years to come. No two cases are identical, but California law does provide a clear framework judges must use when determining custody outcomes.read more









