San Fernando Valley Child Custody Lawyers

FAQs – Child Support and Child Custody in California

What is child support? Child support is an amount of money paid from the non-custodial spouse to the custodial spouse after a divorce or legal separation. This is usually paid monthly and is paid to give the custodial parent the money he or she needs to pay for the child’s food, clothing, shelter, education and medical needs. Child support amounts may vary depending upon the particular child’s needs as well as each parent’s financial situation.

How is child custody determined? Most California courts will try to award joint custody to parents in the event of a divorce or separation. The entire premise behind any court ruling in a child custody dispute will be to do what is in the best interests of the child. The court would therefore award custody to the parent who can provide for the child’s needs and provide a safe and nurturing environment for the child. Either the father or the mother may be awarded custody, or both.

How do child support and child custody relate to one another? Depending upon whether you are the custodial or non-custodial parent, you may receive or be required to pay child support. This is one of the many reasons that child custody is important in a divorce. The parent who is awarded custody may seek child custody from the non-custodial parent for the child’s needs.

What can an attorney do to help me with my child custody or child support issue? If you are considering or are going through a divorce, you will need a legal professional to stand up for your rights and present your case. Regardless of the particular circumstances of your case, a San Fernando Valley divorce attorney at Cutter & Lax can review your matter and determine how to seek the resolution you are seeking. We also assist with child custody modification and the enforcement of child support.

Contact a San Fernando Valley lawyer at our firm for assistance with your child support or child custody matter.