How to Modify a Child Custody Agreement in Redding, CA: Your Legal Options

Child custody can be one of the most complex and difficult types of cases a person can encounter. It is common for individuals to feel overwhelmed, confused, and discouraged by the various challenges they may encounter. These feelings can be reignited when you realize you need to change the agreement you previously made. It is important to know how to modify a child custody agreement in Redding, California.

Child Custody Modifications in Redding, California

California Family Code § 3040 ensures that both parents are granted an equal opportunity to file for the custody of their child. Currently, there are approximately 13 million custodial parents in the United States, which is 4% of the population.

When Should I Hire a Child Custody Lawyer in Redding, California?

Child custody agreement modifications can be just as complicated an undertaking as when you developed the original plan. There are many reasons one may want to hire a Redding child custody lawyer. When determining the custody of your child, there is too much at risk not to utilize every tool you can to bring clarity to and resolve your custody matters.

While you can hire a child custody lawyer at any point during the process, many individuals have found that starting the modification proceedings with the help of a lawyer can protect them from making mistakes that can lead to setbacks, stalling their progress, and costing them more time, money, and stress.

How to Modify a Child Custody Agreement in Redding, California

Once you have the assistance of a child custody lawyer, you may feel more equipped to move forward with the modification process. In order to modify your current child custody agreement, you must complete the following steps:

• Determine if the modification is warranted. It is important that you ensure that you have valid grounds to request a modification. This can be any significant change in circumstances, such as moving further away.
• Obtain any necessary forms. You’ll need Form FL-300, the “Request for Order.” Other forms may also need to be completed later, such as Form FL-320 for “Responsive Declaration” when the other parent responds.
• Complete the forms. So much of family law involves filling out the necessary paperwork, and child custody is no different. You should provide any relevant details about your requested changes, as well as the reasons for said request.
• Make copies of the forms. You should have at least two copies of all completed forms. This allows you to have one copy for your records and one to submit to the court.
• File the forms with the court. Next, take both the original and the copies of your forms to the court clerk. There, you will pay the filing fee, unless you have a fee waiver.
• Obtain a court date. Once you have filed your forms, the clerk will assign a court date for your hearing. This hearing will most likely take place at the Family Law Division of the Shasta County Superior Court.
• Inform the other parent of your request. If you have yet to make your child’s other parent aware of your requested modifications, you must officially serve them the necessary notice. This will alert them of the petition and the court date.
• Attend your hearing. In the event that your child’s other parent disagrees with your modification request, you will both need to attend the hearing and present your case before a judge.
• Uphold the court’s decision. Whether or not you are pleased with the outcome of your child custody modifications case, you are required by California law to uphold the court’s decision.

Why Choose Us?

Finding a lawyer who can handle your case with compassion and insight can make all the difference in whether or not your case succeeds. At Eric Alan Berg & Associates, we offer the unique combination of a small team that ensures your case gets the personal attention it needs, but we also have access to the necessary tools needed to pursue your desired outcomes.

FAQs

Q: How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Child Custody Lawyer in California?

A: In the state of California, the price for hiring a child custody lawyer tends to vary case by case. This is because each change in circumstances presents its own set of variables that can influence the amount of time your case requires, its level of complexity, and who you choose to hire. These are all factors that influence your final cost. At Eric Alan Berg & Associates, we work hard to help you achieve your desired outcomes, ensuring your fees are well worth it.

Q: What Constitutes a Change of Circumstances for Child Custody in California?

A: There are many different kinds of circumstantial changes that may result in a parent needing to modify their current child custody arrangement. Examples of this include a change in your work schedule, a plan to relocate for your job or other reasons, or any other shift in your life that could lead to challenges in keeping to your previous agreement.

Q: How Long Will My Custody Modification Case Take to Resolve in California?

A: Each case is unique, and so it can be difficult to determine a one-size-fits-all schedule for child custody modifications in California. The level of complexity your case presents, the schedule of your local courthouse, all parties involved, and whether or not you hire a child custody lawyer to help you can all influence your case’s unique timeline. Enlisting the guidance of a lawyer can protect you from making the kinds of mistakes that lead to setbacks and stalled progress.

Q: Can I Represent Myself in a Custody Modification Case in California?

A: Yes, it is perfectly legal for you to serve as your own representation in a custody modification case in the state of California. There are many individuals, however, who have found that hiring a child custody attorney can be exactly what their case needs to be successful and achieve the outcome they desire.

Get More Information Today

Child custody law can be confusing, but it does not have to remain that way. Contact Eric Alan Berg & Associates today to schedule a consultation.

See Related Posts:

• How to Navigate Divorce in Redding, CA: Tips for Protecting Your Rights
• Top Mistakes to Avoid During a Divorce in Shasta County
• What to Expect in a Child Custody Battle in Shasta County: A Legal Guide