Child Custody | San Diego Family Law Blog - Part 3
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 A parenting plan that was working well can become outdated as children grow and family dynamics change.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
Co-Parenting When Your Ex Has a New Partner
Co-parenting can be challenging, and when your ex introduces a new romantic partner into the picture, things can get even more complicated.
While it’s perfectly normal to have strong emotions during this transition, it’s still important that you prioritize your child’s well-being and do what you can to foster stability.read more
Recognizing Parental Alienation in San Diego Custody Cases
Parental alienation occurs when one parent consciously or unconsciously tries to turn a child against the other parent. It often involves manipulative behaviors, such as badmouthing the other parent, limiting contact, or making the child feel guilty for enjoying time with the targeted parent.
While courts are hesitant to label children as victims of alienation without clear evidence, the damage it causes is real. Children exposed to alienating behavior often suffer from anxiety, low self-esteem, and relationship issues well into adulthood.read more
How to Manage Holiday Custody Arrangements
Children often have a week off for Thanksgiving and three weeks off around Christmas and New Year’s Day. This is a lot of time families need to take into account. And for families dealing with shared parenting arrangements, navigating holiday custody changes can be a complex and emotionally charged process.read more
When Your Ex or Soon-to-Be Ex Is a Threat to Your Children
There’s nothing more important than the health and safety of your children. If your ex or your soon-to-be ex is a threat to your children, your situation requires immediate legal intervention that could involve changes to your custody agreement. It’s essential to speak with an experienced family law attorney right away. Your lawyer can help you understand your rights and advise you about your legal options moving forward.read more
Child Custody: Vacation Time and 3-Day Weekends
If you share custody of your kids, 3-day weekends provide a wonderful opportunity to experience fun and exciting experiences, especially during summer. But deciding how to divide custody over 3-day weekends can be challenging. Effective planning and clear communication are essential for ensuring that kids and parents enjoy quality time while minimizing potential conflicts.read more