San Diego Family Law Blog

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

How to Get Visitation Rights as a Grandparent in San Diego

As a grandparent, your bond with your grandchildren is irreplaceable. But when family relationships become strained due to divorce, separation, or loss, the ability to maintain that connection can feel uncertain.

In San Diego, there is legal recourse for grandparents who want to ensure continued involvement in their grandchildren’s lives.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

Announcing Our 2025 Making Waves College Scholarship

Mattis Law, A.P.C., is a family law firm that protects children and families. We feel extremely fortunate to live and work in San Diego, and we’re pleased to be able to give something back to the local community whenever we can. Every year, Mattis Law, A.P.C., awards our $500 Making Waves Scholarship to a deserving student who’s working to improve their life by pursuing a four-year college degree.read more

Co-Parenting a Special Needs Child in California: Legal and Practical Tips

Co-parenting comes with unique challenges when your child has special needs. But it’s a lot easier when parents work together, communicate effectively, and always think about what’s best for the child.

Creating a stable and supportive environment that nurtures a child’s unique needs will make life a bit smoother for everyone involved.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

Child Custody and Autism in San Diego: What Parents Should Know

Child custody in San Diego is never simple—but when your child has autism or other special needs, it can feel downright overwhelming.

Autism presents specific needs in communication, routine, and education—all of which must be addressed in a carefully considered custody agreement. At Mattis Law, A.P.C., we understand the added emotional, logistical, and legal layers parents face when trying to do what’s best for their children, and we want to help.read more

Why Domestic Violence Surges During the Holidays

While the holiday season is often seen as a time of joy and togetherness, it can also, unfortunately, coincide with a rise in domestic violence incidents. This troubling trend is driven by a mixture of increased stress from financial burdens, intensified family interactions, and heightened alcohol consumption during festive celebrations. As these factors compound, they can create an environment ripe for conflict, with potentially devastating physical and emotional consequences. In such dire situations, the guidance of a divorce lawyer becomes a beacon of hope.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