Considerate California Lawyer Helps With Child Custody Issues
Caring attorney protects the rights of parents in the Woodland Hills area
No parent should have to lose precious time with a child or forfeit essential parental rights because of a poor custody order. When the welfare and security of your child are at stake, it is essential to enlist an experienced and interested family law attorney to ensure your child’s best interests are met. Galen Gentry represents parents in California child custody disputes in Los Angeles and Orange County. Galen is committed to the best interests of children and protecting a parent’s rights to maintain a meaningful relationship with their child.
Ideally, the parties will work out a schedule of custody that suits them and is in the children’s best interests. Parenting schedules determined by the parents are best. The court will accept any reasonable parenting schedule which the parties propose. This custody plan is submitted by agreement to the court which issues an order confirming the agreement. Having a written agreement is helpful because each parent knows their rights and obligations. If parents cooperate the children are better off.
If the parties cannot agree on custody, then an order of custody can be sought from the court. Declarations setting out the custody plan desired by each party are submitted to the court. The court has a hearing and an order of custody will be issued. Courts maintain jurisdiction to modify custody orders until a child reaches 18 years of age. If you have a custody dispute you want an experienced attorney who can skillfully argue on your behalf and craft your declaration appropriately. Mr. Gentry has 30 years of experience.
Strategic mediator encourages cooperation between parents
Children are best served when parents maintain a cordial relationship. If that is not possible the structured process of mediation may help parents set aside enmity and agree on key points concerning their children. Mediation can be a highly effective tool. It can help you preserve your children’s well-being and the stability of their lives during the turbulent process of divorce. Mr. Gentry can mediate disputes. In that case he represents neither party as an attorney but works for both as a mediator. In cases where Mr. Gentry has been hired as one party’s attorney the parties may agree to use a third-party mediator. In that case Galen will advise you of your rights and obligations and counsel you as the mediation progresses to a conclusion.
Winning litigator stays by your side in court proceedings
If you and your child’s other parent cannot agree on how to raise your child, or if they pose a threat to your child’s well-being, Mr. Gentry will represent you in court. The courtroom provides an essential forum for establishing your parental rights and protecting your child’s best interests. Mr. Gentry represents clients in matters related to:
- Primary and joint custody arrangements
- Visitation rights
- Grandparent visitation
- Modification of custody and visitation orders
- Enforcement of orders
- Decisions related to religion, education and upbringing of the child
Litigation about child custody is emotionally taxing and if possible, it should be avoided. If it is necessary, the party needs an experienced litigation attorney.
Contact a compassionate California family law attorney for help with your child custody case
For help in achieving a favorable outcome to your child custody issues, call Galen Gentry Law Group at (310) 282-7521 or contact me online to schedule a free virtual consultation at my Woodland Hills office.