Child custody is a general term used to address parents' legal and/or physical custody of their child. Other terms with more specific definitions are used throughout the United States, and those terms will depend on your jurisdiction. Examples of legal terms include parenting time or allocation of parental responsibilities. Regardless of the legal term used in your state, we all understand that child custody most often refers to your child's legal and physical custody. This subject is very touchy and can become highly contentious during a divorce. Having an order in place is critical to ensure your child's rights, your rights, and the other parent's responsibilities are outlined, upheld, and enforced.
If you do not have a custody order in place in California, it is your best option to petition for one. Though parents might get along today and share custody in a way that mutually works, you never know what tomorrow will bring. At Compass Legal Group, APC, our child custody lawyer in Los Angeles, Ventura, and Santa Barbara Counties will guide you through the process, represent your interests and the child's best interests, and follow up to make sure the order is implemented. When a parent fails to adhere to the order, steps inside and outside the courtroom can be taken to enforce and––in some instances—modify the order. Contact us today at (805) 852-5141 to schedule a Free 30-minute Consultation.
Enforcement of California Child Custody Court Orders
All too often, obtaining an order from the court for child custody is only the first part of the battle. If the other parent, or person that has visitation, does not honor the agreement, the custodial parent may have to take steps to have the court order enforced. While enforcement procedures differ by jurisdiction, the most typical method is by filing a motion with the court. This motion goes by different names, such as Motion to Enforce Custody and Visitation or Motion for Civil Contempt. The court will then schedule a hearing to find out why the order has not been upheld and decide the best way to proceed.
When the police are summoned to enforce a child custody order, they may or may not become involved. Absent a criminal act, such as kidnapping, police tend to favor not being involved.
You should request an emergency hearing with the court if there is an emergency. Emergencies include situations where one parent refuses to allow the other parent to see the child even though it violates the order.
Can Child Custody Be Enforced When You Do Not Have a Court Order in California?
It is always best to have an order in place that spells out who has custody, including when and where custody occurs. Absent a child custody order in California; enforcement is difficult. There's no legal basis for the police to get involved unless a specific crime has occurred. The courts cannot do anything, either. You must file a child custody petition and obtain an order.
What To Do When Child Custody Is Not Enforced in Los Angeles, Ventura, and Santa Barbara Counties?
When a parent fails to follow a child custody order, they are in contempt of court. You can file a motion with the court to bring the other parent before the judge again. The judge will assess whether the order has been violated and what the response should be. It may often result in a modification of the child custody order.
Contact Compass Legal Group, APC in Los Angeles, Ventura, and Santa Barbara Counties. We will help you file a thorough, well-supported petition with the court. We will review your situation and provide the advice and representation you need to enforce or modify the child custody order and address any other family law issues or questions you may have.
How to Protect Your Children & Your Rights in California
If you have concerns regarding the rights of your children and yourself, it is in your best interest to take steps to protect those rights. The first matter to be addressed is having an order entered that clearly states that you have custody of your child. If you fear that another party with no right to your child may try to take your child from you, keep a certified copy of the order on your person, and give certified copies to appropriate parties. This would include your child's school and the daycare your child attends.
Another wise action is to keep a detailed calendar of who has your child on any given day. Keep track of missed visitations and any other pertinent information.
Contact a Child Support Attorney in Los Angeles, Ventura, and Santa Barbara Counties Today
At Compass Legal Group, APC, we know child custody is sensitive. Our family law lawyer offers comprehensive family law legal services, advice, and representation. Contact us today at (805) 852-5141 or complete our online form to schedule a confidential Free 30-minute Consultation.