El Cajon Child Custody Lawyer

Child Custody Attorney in El Cajon, CA

Child custody cases can be complicated to navigate. When it comes to any issue that affects a child, California courts make decisions based on the best interest of the child. An El Cajon child custody lawyer can help you create a plan for your family’s future that is suitable for your unique circumstances.

Erica Bloom Law brings over a decade of experience navigating complex family law cases to the table. Our compassionate El Cajon family lawyer is prepared to be by your side throughout the entirety of your case.

Child Custody Cases in California

Child custody refers to the care and control of a child under the age of 18. When establishing custody, California courts consider many different factors. While the children themselves don’t have a real choice, courts do take their best interests and personal preferences into consideration. They also look at each parent’s ability to care for the child and the existing relationships between family members.

There are different types of custody recognized in California, including:

• Physical custody refers to where the child lives the majority of the time.
• Legal custody refers to who has the right and the responsibility for making important decisions related to the child’s education, health, and general welfare.

Furthermore, physical and legal custody can be classified as “sole custody” or “joint custody.” California law favors joint custody whenever possible because it gives children ample time with both parents despite their separation from one another. However, some situations may require sole custody. Sole physical custody means the child lives under the supervision of one parent. In these cases, the other parent typically retains visitation rights.

When a parent is granted sole legal custody, that parent has the right to make important decisions on behalf of the child, such as those regarding healthcare and education. Joint legal custody means the parents share this responsibility. An El Cajon child custody attorney can help you create visitation plans, ensure your wishes are advocated for, and encourage successful negotiations with your co-parent.

Recent data shows there were a total of 8,445,669 children under the age of 18 residing in California in 2023. There were around 720,699 children in San Diego County specifically, and around 66.9 percent of these children were living with both parents, according to data gathered in 2020. If parents separate, they must come up with a plan for where their child or children are going to live and what their relationship with each parent is going to be moving forward.

Your Local El Cajon Child Custody Lawyer

It is wise to contact a knowledgeable El Cajon family lawyer to help you with your child custody case for a number of reasons. Even seemingly straightforward cases can come with unexpected challenges, and having the support of a skilled lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.

Erica Bloom Law has been in business since 2016, and we pride ourselves on offering personalized, compassionate care that is tailored to each and every client in El Cajon, CA.

Our accolades over the years include:

• Many 5-star reviews from our clients
• Litigator of the Year 2022, American Institute of Trial Lawyers
• Lawyers of Distinction, 2024
• Top 30 Matrimonial and Family Trial Lawyers

Additionally, we are familiar with working within the Family Law Division at the East County Regional Center of the San Diego Superior Court, so we can let you know what to expect throughout your case and help you prepare accordingly.

FAQs About Child Custody in El Cajon

Do I Need to Hire a Child Custody Lawyer to Help With My Case in El Cajon?

You are not legally required to hire a lawyer to handle child custody in California, but it is highly recommended that you do. An El Cajon lawyer who understands California’s child custody laws can be an invaluable asset, whether you are establishing a new custody order or modifying an existing one. They can ensure you understand the law and your options and help you through any challenges that may arise during your case.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Child Custody Lawyer in El Cajon?

The exact cost of working with an El Cajon child custody attorney is going to depend on the services you require. You can typically expect an El Cajon family lawyer to charge a flat fee or an hourly rate, depending on the nature of your case.

You can usually schedule an initial consultation with a law firm where you can discuss all of the details of your case and learn more about the attorney’s fee structure.

What Is the Biggest Mistake You Can Make in a Custody Battle in El Cajon?

The biggest mistake you can make in a child custody battle is formulating a plan that does not take the child’s best interest into account. It’s easy to get caught up in what works for you as the parent versus the family as a whole. California courts are ultimately going to make a decision based on what they think is best for the child.

Can I Modify an Existing Child Custody Order in El Cajon?

Yes, it is possible to modify an existing child custody order in El Cajon, California, to adjust to changes in your circumstances. It is not uncommon for families to adjust their child custody orders over time to allow for changes in the child’s needs. To initiate the process, you must send a request to a judge of the San Diego Superior Court. An El Cajon family lawyer can help you with a child custody modification.

Hire a Child Custody Lawyer in El Cajon to Discuss Your Case in More Detail Today

You don’t have to fight through a child custody case on your own. At Erica Bloom Law, we advocate for you to help you secure your family’s future. We listen to your needs and wishes and develop a personalized strategy based on your unique family circumstances. If you are ready to learn more about the child custody process, we are here to answer your questions and provide guidance. Contact us to set up an appointment with an El Cajon child custody attorney today.