San Diego Family Law Blog
What Counts as an Emergency in San Diego Child Custody Cases?
Child custody issues are often emotionally charged, but not every conflict qualifies as a legal emergency. If you believe your child is in immediate danger or at risk of being removed from the state without permission, you may need to act quickly. But it’s important to remember that in California, emergency child custody orders are only granted in certain urgent situations.read more
Understanding Child Support Obligations for Special Needs Children in California
Raising a child with special needs comes with unique challenges, and those challenges don’t disappear during or after a divorce. In California, the law recognizes that children with disabilities may require ongoing support beyond typical childhood years, as well as financial resources far beyond what’s outlined in standard child support formulas.read more
A Marriage and Family Law Attorney’s Guide to Custody for Unmarried Parents in La Jolla
When a relationship between unmarried parents ends, questions around custody, parenting time, and paternity rights can get complicated. Unmarried parents face different legal steps than married couples when it comes to establishing custody.read more
A Lawyer’s Guide to Navigating Mandatory Custody Mediation in San Diego
When parents argue about custody issues, it’s hard on everyone involved, especially the children. To help resolve these disputes, courts in San Diego County require parents to participate in custody mediation through Family Court Services (FCS) before appearing in front of a judge. This process is unlike mediation in many other jurisdictions; it’s mandatory, ordered by the court, and it plays an important role in the court’s decision. read more
How Stepparent Adoption Affects Grandparent Visitation Rights
When a stepparent decides to adopt a child, one area that can be deeply affected is the status of grandparent visitation rights. There have been cases in California where stepparent adoption has led to the termination of existing visitation rights for grandparents. At Mattis Law, A.P.C., we guide families through difficult legal issues related to custody, parenting rights, and adoption.
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Top Co-Parenting Schedules for Toddlers in San Diego
Creating the right toddler parenting plan is one of the most challenging aspects of co-parenting after a divorce or separation. Toddlers thrive on routine, predictability, and secure attachments, which can make structuring shared parenting time especially delicate during these early years.
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6 Steps to Help Your Child Through a Divorce in San Diego
Divorce can feel overwhelming for parents, and it’s disorienting for your children. As a San Diego divorce lawyer with a strong focus on child custody, Amelia J. Mattis understands that when you separate from a spouse, your child’s emotional well-being must be a top priority.
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How to Tell Your Spouse You Want a Divorce — A Compassionate San Diego Guide
Telling your spouse you want a divorce may be one of the most difficult conversations you’ll ever have. Knowing how to approach this moment requires preparation. At Mattis Law, A.P.C., we help San Diego residents take their first steps toward separation with dignity and foresight.
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San Diego Custody Modification Laws: What Qualifies as a Change?
Parenting plans created during divorce or legal separation are intended to provide stability for children and predictability for parents. But over time, changes in a child’s needs, a parent’s schedule, or other significant circumstances may require an update to a custody agreement.read more
When One Parent Opposes Grandparent Visits in San Diego
Family relationships are complex, especially when they intersect with California custody laws. When a parent opposes grandparent visitation in San Diego, it creates legal and emotional tension that requires a careful balance between parental rights and the interests of the child.read more