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Child Custody In California Supports Joint Rights

The divorce rate in this country is growing and California is no exception. If you have children, you need to take a close look at California child custody laws to make sure you know your rights. Parental disputes can lead to vicious custody wars that hurt everyone involved, especially the children. In order to make this trying, transitional time as easy as possible you should both come together, look at the laws and decide what is best for you and your children. By relying on the court system, you will help to avoid vindictive acts and make the process flow smoothly for everyone.

California child custody laws are designed to help, not hinder joint parental custody; something most parents want. For those of you unfamiliar with the term, joint custody means that both parents have the right to make decisions about their children’s lives including education, medical and even religious decisions. This allows each parent to play an active role in their kids' lives even if they aren't all living in the same household. Families that are mutually separating under good terms tend prefer this option over sole custody divorce terms because the child can spend time with both parents as agreed upon by the parents and court.

California Child Custody Rights And Child Support

In cases where there may be problems within the family, California child custody courts may make a ruling for sole custody by a single parent instead of both. Courts would rather not break up a family if it is not necessary, but in cases where abuse, drugs, alcohol or other problems may exist, this may be the best solution. With sole custody, the custodial parent has the right to make all decisions regarding their children including where they live, go to school or any other major decisions concerning their lives. The non-custodial parent may be allowed visitation rights with the children.

One thing that California child custody laws provide, despite the circumstances of joint or sole custody, is the right to child support. The courts will usually lay out terms of the support order and the custodial parent will receive the calculated amount, decided upon by the court through a specific formula. Knowing your rights and options when it comes to custody laws is one of the most important things you can do in preparation for divorce proceedings.

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