Redwood City Family Law Blog

Parents in California and throughout the country should not be afraid to speak out if they believe that their children are in danger. Judges will thoroughly investigate any claims that a child has been abused or witnessed others being abused in a home. As part of the investigation, a court will seek assurances that a parent is not making false accusations as a means of obtaining custody of a child.

During an investigation, both parents may retain the right to see and interact with their children. If necessary, parents will be allowed to see visit with their kids in public places and under the supervision of a trusted neutral party. Temporary restraining orders may be granted if there is credible evidence that a child would be in danger while with his or her mother or father. There are many types of evidence that can be used to prove an abuse claim.

One of the most complicated challenges a custodial parent may face after a divorce is handling a child's request to live with the other parent. There are a variety of legitimate motives a teen or young person might have for making this request, but there are some guidelines for what to do in this situation. California parents may want to consider the following tips.

Whether keeping living arrangements as is or making changes, it's important to understand why a child is making the request. The child should be permitted to share opinions and concerns. It's usually best for parents to make an effort to stay calm and let a child talk without interrupting.

At the end of your divorce proceedings, you walked away with a custody agreement that may not give you as much time with your children as you would like. However, the court put the child custody order in place because it was thought best for the kids. Some time has passed and you feel a change is in order. Can you seek a child custody modification?

In the state of California, it is possible to seek adjustments to custody orders. Of course, any changes made still need to serve the best interests of your children. How can you go about seeking a modification?

Some California parents may not be considered fit or able to provide regular parenting care for their children. In addition, there may be concerns that kids could experience dangers or harms if regular parental visitation is granted. However, family courts recognize that children have a strong interest in an ongoing relationship with both of their parents. As a result, judges may order supervised visitation, which is when a noncustodial parent is only allowed to see their kids in the presence of another person acting as a supervisor. While the supervisor is often a professional like a counselor or social worker, it could also be another family member.

Supervised visitation can vary from case to case. It might take place at the parent's home, or it could be held at a specified visitation facility maintained for that purpose. There are a number of reasons why a judge may order supervised visitation. For example, the parent may be accused of child abuse or domestic violence. Others may experience certain troubling issues that prevent them from providing safe and effective care for their children. Examples include alcohol or drug addiction or untreated serious mental health concerns.