Here are 10 compelling reasons lawyers should recommend family law mediation to their clients: 1. Cost-Effective for Clients Mediation is generally less expensive than traditional litigation, reducing the financial burden on clients. This affordability can help clients allocate resources for other needs, such as child support or relocation expenses. 2. Time-Saving Mediation often resolves disputes […]Continue reading

Family law mediation is an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) process where a neutral third party, called a mediator, helps individuals resolve family-related legal issues outside of court. The goal of mediation is to reach a mutually acceptable agreement in a more cooperative, cost-effective, and time-efficient manner compared to traditional litigation. Key Features of Family Law […]Continue reading

Divorce can be a challenging process, made even more complex if you don’t meet the residency requirements in California. However, there are still options available to you. In this blog post, we’ll explore the steps you can take if you need to file for divorce but don’t meet the residency criteria. Understanding California’s Residency Requirements […]Continue reading

The dissolution of marriage, commonly known as divorce, is a legal process by which a marriage is formally terminated. In California, a state that follows a “no-fault” divorce model, the grounds for dissolution are straightforward, yet the implications of this legal action can be complex. Whether you’re considering filing for divorce or simply want to […]Continue reading

Mediators play a crucial role in resolving family law disputes. They guide discussions, help clarify issues, and work towards mutually beneficial agreements. Understanding a mediator’s responsibilities can greatly enhance the mediation process and lead to better outcomes for all parties involved. When choosing a mediator, it’s important to be aware of the key qualities that […]Continue reading

In family mediation, confidentiality plays a crucial role in making everyone feel safe and understood. When people know their private matters won’t be shared publicly, they feel more comfortable discussing their concerns and working towards a solution. This trust in confidentiality helps create an environment where all parties can openly express their thoughts and feelings […]Continue reading

The level of involvement of the non-moving parent is a factor the court considers. If the non-moving parent has limited involvement, it may weigh less against granting the move-away request.

If the court determines that the move would genuinely benefit the child’s health, education, and well-being, such as improved educational or healthcare opportunities, it may grant the move-away request depending on other factors related to the child(ren)’s best interest.

Custody disputes can be one of the most difficult parts of a divorce. Emotions run high, and both parents may fear losing precious time with their children. However, mediation offers a more peaceful way to resolve these issues. Instead of fighting in court, parents can work together with the help of a neutral mediator to […]Continue reading

Yes, if the move-away request violates an existing custody or visitation order, the court may deny the request to ensure compliance with the existing court order. The best interest of the minor child(ren) is always the controlling factor.

The court considers the impact of a move on the child’s relationship with extended family members, and it may deny a move-away request if it would unreasonably limit the child’s contact with extended family, along with other considerations related to best interest considerations

Yes, the court may deny a move-away request if it determines that the move would significantly disrupt the child’s stability, such as by removing them from their established community, extended family, friends, school, or support system.

A move-away request will be denied if the court determines that the primary purpose of the move is to interfere with the other parent’s relationship with the child rather than for legitimate reasons.

If the move-away is necessary due to a job relocation, the court will consider the reasons for the move, the potential benefits for the child, and the impact on the child’s relationship with the non-moving parent, among other factors.

Yes, if you disagree with the court’s decision in a move-away case, you may have the right to appeal the decision within a specific timeframe. Consulting with an appellate attorney is recommended in such cases.

In certain situations, the court can issue a temporary restraining order to prevent the move-away until a hearing can be held to determine the appropriate custody and visitation arrangement or if the move-away parent is allowed to move with the child(ren).

In a move-away case, you should provide evidence that supports your position, such as information about the child’s school, community ties, friends, the proposed parenting plan, the reason for the move, why and how the child’s move will interfere with the parent-child relationship, alternative transportation options, a change in job relocation, and the impact on […]Continue reading

When families face legal disputes, deciding how to resolve them can be challenging. Family law mediation and traditional litigation are two common methods used to settle these issues. Each approach has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and understanding these can help you make the best decision for your family. Mediation is a more […]Continue reading

In some cases, the court may grant a move-away request without a hearing if both parents agree to the relocation and other conditions and the court determines it is in the child’s best interests.

If the parents cannot agree to the move-away request, the court will schedule a hearing to listen to both parties’ testimony, witness testimony, the testimony from mental health professionals, testimony from a custody evaluator (if ordered by the court) and arguments of counsel, and make a decision based on the best interests of the child.

Yes, parents can attempt to resolve a move-away case through mediation, where a neutral mediator helps facilitate negotiations and reach an agreement that is acceptable to both parents.

The “best interests of the child” standard is the guiding principle in California family law that prioritizes the child’s health, welfare, well-being and safety when making decisions about custody and visitation.

In a move-away case, the court considers several factors, including the child’s best interests, the reasons for the move, the impact on the child’s relationship with the nonmoving parent, and the availability of alternative visitation arrangements.

A non-custodial parent can seek a court order to prevent the custodial parent from moving away with the child if it would substantially affect their relationship with the child and the best interests of the minor child(ren) supports such a request.

When facing legal disputes, choosing the right method to resolve them is crucial. One effective alternative to going to court is mediation. Mediation offers a voluntary and collaborative approach to solving conflicts, which can be beneficial for all parties involved. This process involves a neutral mediator who helps facilitate open communication and negotiation, aiming to […]Continue reading

If the other parent wants to move away with your child, you should consult with a family law attorney to understand your rights and options. You may need to take legal action to protect your custody and visitation rights.

Generally, a custodial parent cannot move away with a child without permission from the other parent or a court order, especially if it would significantly impact the other parent’s visitation or custody rights and/or the child(ren)’s best interest.

If you want to modify spousal support in California, it is advisable to consult with a family law attorney who specializes in spousal support matters. They can guide you through the legal process and help you present your case effectively.

A change in the cost of living alone does not typically warrant a modification of spousal support in California. However, it may be considered along with other relevant factors if there is a significant impact on the parties’ financial circumstances.

In California, the court expects the receiving spouse to make reasonable efforts to become self-supporting or contribute to his/her support needs. If the receiving spouse fails to do so without valid reasons, it may be a factor in modifying spousal support. Often a court will issue a Gavron warning to the support receiving spouse based […]Continue reading