San Diego Sole Custody Lawyers

Information About Sole Child Custody in California

Divorce is a highly emotional time for everyone, but it is especially difficult when children are involved. In some cases, joint custody is a not a viable option for some families, and the San Diego child custody attorneys at Mattis Law, A.P.C. can help you reach the best outcome for you and your children as smoothly as possible. Please contact our office to learn more about your legal rights and options.

Call (858) 328-4400 today for a comprehensive consultation. We are more than happy to answer your questions and help you make an informed decision about your child's future.

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When Joint Custody Isn't an Option

Now that your relationship with your former spouse or partner has dissolved, you need to make new arrangements for how best to raise and protect your child. Whether your ex-spouse or partner is no longer fit to parent or other factors are interfering with his or her ability to assume shared custody, you may be able to obtain sole custody of your child.

Sole custody means that the parent does not share custody with anyone else. Sole custody is divided into two categories:

• Sole legal custody – You will be the only one who may legally make major decisions on behalf of your child, such as his/her health and education.
• Sole physical custody – You will have full responsibility for the physical care and supervision of your child. The non-custodial parent may have visitation privileges.

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When Sole Custody Is in the Child's Best Interest

There are numerous circumstances in which one parent may be assigned sole custody of their child. The court will determine which parent should assume full responsibility for the legal and/or physical well-being of their child based on the following factors:

• Who lives closest to the child's school and/or other family members
• Who has been the child's primary caregiver
• The child's preference
• Whether one parent has a history of addiction
• Whether one parent has a history of neglect or abuse toward the child
• Whether one parent has committed acts of parental alienation toward the child.
• Whether one parent creates conflict and involves the child in adult or conflict issues.
• Whether an award of joint custody to one parent creates safety issues for the child.

Sole custody does not necessarily mean that the non-custodial parent will not have the right to visit or spend parenting time with the child. The final arrangement and schedule will depend on the specific situation.

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The Guidance and Representation You Need in San Diego

Every family is as unique as its members. The legal team at Mattis Law, A.P.C. will take the time to get to know you and your family's best interests. We provide compassionate, dedicated representation with the sole purpose of helping you protect your child's best interests. Contact us today at (858) 328-4400 to get started.

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