Who has legal custody of a child in California?

Who has legal custody of a child in California?

In California, either parent can have custody of the children, or the parents can share custody. The judge makes the final decision about custody and visitation but usually will approve the arrangement (the parenting plan) that both parents agree on.

What questions does a judge ask a child in a custody case?

Questions to Ask in a Child Custody Case

  • Has one parent been the primary caretaker, or have the parents shared the responsibility?
  • What is the mental and physical health status of the parents?
  • Will the child be in a stable home environment?

Can a child refuse to see a parent?

In cases where parents can’t agree, a judge will decide visitation and custody based on the child’s best interests. Both parents are bound by the terms of a custody order. If your child refuses to go to visits with the other parent, you could still be on the hook for failing to comply with a custody order.

At what age can a child refuse to see their parent?

Most judges understand that once a child reaches their teens (14 /15 /16 /17), it certainly is difficult to force them to visit with a noncustodial parent when they are adamant about not seeing them, but it truly is not the child’s decision.

What rights does a father have to his child?

Fathers’ rights can include a father’s right to parenting time with his children, the right to be consulted before adoption, and the right to time off from work to raise his child. You can also learn about the fathers’ rights movement, proposals for family law reform, and notable fathers’ rights legal cases.

What percentage of mothers get custody?

90 percent

What percent of fathers win custody?

The amount of custodial fathers is not necessarily increasing over time, but rather oscillates. It was down to 15.46% in 2001 and as high as 18.30% in 2011. It’s currently at 17.51% in 2013.

How will a judge decide who gets custody?

Judges must decide custody based on “the best interests of the child.” The “best interests of the child” law requires courts to focus on the child’s needs and not the parent’s needs. The law requires courts to give custody to the parent who can meet the child’s needs best .