As a parent, you likely envision raising your child with their other parent. Unfortunately, circumstances between a couple can change over time, creating the need to establish who has legal authority over the child’s upbringing. Understanding your parental rights can help you co-parent efficiently without negatively impacting your relationship with your child.
Working with a family law attorney in Newark, CA, from CC LawGroup, A Professional Corporation, is helpful in such situations. We have an in-depth understanding of California family law. Consult our guide to learn why working with a family lawyer is often necessary for protecting a parent’s legal rights.
The Importance of Partnering With a Family Law Attorney in Newark, CA
Family law is more complex than people think. When you separate from or divorce your partner, you must make decisions that will frame not only your future but also your child’s future. Whether you need to work out complicated financial issues or determine custody arrangements that work for you and your child’s other parent, a family law attorney in Newark, CA, can provide the guidance you need.
A family law attorney has the knowledge and experience necessary to help you navigate the legal landscape surrounding your case. They can break down complex terms to make them more understandable, set realistic outcomes, explore your options, and advocate for you. Their legal assistance and support will help you make sound decisions while protecting your interests.
What Does California Consider as Parental Rights?
California refers to parental rights as a person’s legal responsibility and authority to care for a child and make decisions regarding their upbringing and future. Part of establishing legal parentage for fathers is knowing whether the father and mother are married.
When married women have children, the marital presumption of parentage usually establishes the husbands as the fathers, even if they lack a biological connection. Establishing parentage as an unmarried person is generally more difficult. Fathers may need to establish paternity by signing a Voluntary Declaration of Paternity or undergoing genetic testing.
Fundamental parental rights in California include:
- Educational decisions: You have a right to send your child to a school of your choice and participate in their academic development.
- Medical decisions: If your child needs healthcare, whether it’s preventative appointments or emergency treatments, you can make medical decisions on their behalf.
- Physical custody and quality time: As a parent, you have the right to have a relationship with your child and spend time with them, even after a divorce.
- Religious or cultural upbringing: You can choose to establish a cultural, spiritual, or religious connection with your child without interference from the government.
- Traveling or moving with the child: Although relocations can impact child custody agreements, parents can still travel or move with their child with court approval and the other parent’s permission.
- Financial support: The custodial parent has a right to pursue child support from the other parent to help raise the child.
When To Seek Legal Help
Consider hiring a family law attorney as soon as possible, especially if you already have concerns regarding your parental rights. Hiring an experienced family law attorney can streamline custody or child support disputes. These professionals understand the nuances of California law, which helps them advocate for the rights of the parents who hire them.
With reliable representation, you can be confident in the protections surrounding your rights and your legal standing during negotiations or court proceedings. Your attorney can also ensure that the appropriate steps are taken to protect your child’s safety without infringing on the rights of the other parent.
Common Challenges to Parental Rights
Because California doesn’t use a one-size-fits-all approach to child custody cases, it follows “best interest of the child” standards. That means the court will consider the child’s health and safety, as well as their relationships with both parents and the family’s dynamics, to make decisions.
You could lose your parental rights if the court determines you are an unfit or negligent parent. Challenges to your rights may include anything that puts the child in danger, such as:
- Substance abuse
- Physical abuse
- Criminal activity
Turn to CC LawGroup, A Professional Corporation, for the Protection of Your Parental Rights
At CC LawGroup, A Professional Corporation, we use our decades of experience navigating California’s family law and advocating for our clients’ parental rights. Our legal team assists with everything from establishing child support payment options to protecting custody rights during divorce.
Let us provide legal guidance and representation during your family law case. Contact CC LawGroup, A Professional Corporation, today at (510) 818-0000 to request a consultation.
