Long Beach Family Law & Child Custody Attorney
Steady guidance on custody and parenting time, so your children can have stability through the change.
Family Law & Child Custody
How We Help With Family Law & Child Custody
Few things feel more personal than a dispute over your children. Whether you are separating, going back to court because circumstances changed, or trying to get the other parent to follow an existing order, the uncertainty can be exhausting. You deserve someone who will explain the process clearly and keep the focus on what matters most: your relationship with your kids.
Our family-law practice centers on child custody and parenting time. Attorney George L. Fernandez helps parents in Los Angeles and Orange County courts — and throughout San Bernardino and Riverside Counties — prepare parenting plans, request or oppose modifications, and present their case clearly at mediation and hearings. Family Law Paralegal Tisha Rendon works alongside clients to gather documents, track deadlines and prepare for each step, so nothing falls through the cracks.
We take a calm, practical approach. When agreement is possible, we work toward it. When it is not, we are prepared to advocate for you in court.
What We Handle
Custody Matters We Handle
- Child custody (legal and physical)
- Visitation and parenting plans
- Custody modifications
- Relocation (move-away)
- Related restraining orders
- Paternity-related custody issues
Explore
Related Family Law & Child Custody Services
- Restraining OrdersWhen safety is a concern, a domestic violence restraining order can include temporary custody orders.Learn more
- Domestic Violence DefenseIf you have been accused, the criminal case and the custody case are closely linked.Learn more
- How Custody Is DecidedA plain-English guide to the 'best interest of the child' standard in California.Learn more
Our Process
How a Custody Case Typically Moves
- 1
Consultation
We learn about your family, your goals and any existing orders, and explain your options.
- 2
Document gathering and filings
We prepare the request or response, declarations and a proposed parenting plan.
- 3
Mediation / negotiation
We prepare you for court-connected child custody mediation or counseling and negotiate where possible.
- 4
Hearing or agreement
We finalize an agreement for the court or present your case at a hearing.
Why It Matters
Why Work With a Family Law Attorney?
Clarity
Custody forms, deadlines and court procedures are confusing. We make sure filings are complete and on time.
Preparation
Mediation and hearings go better when you know what to expect and have your evidence organized.
Perspective
An experienced advocate helps keep emotions from driving decisions that affect your children for years.
Client Reviews
What Our Clients Say on Google
“My husband and I are very thankful for all of the help that Mr. Fernandez gave us with representing my husband in a case where he was innocent. We live in GA but the case was in LA and Mr. Fernandez helped ease our mind that our case could very easily be handled. He was very professional, his team was always there to help guide us and answer our questions during the process of this very stressful time for us.”
Sarah SalazarGoogle review · “Attorney George Fernandez returned my phone call promptly and represented me in court on short notice. He did a 5-star stellar job on a complicated case. I will definitely retain him in the future. I'm very grateful to Attorney Fernandez for his expertise and willingness to represent me on such short notice, and with such a positive outcome.”
gina joeGoogle review · “Attorney George L Fernandez has helped I and my family tremendously with our eviction case. He is a very professional and great attorney it was a pleasure doing business with him. I would definitely recommend attorney George Fernandez to anyone in need.”
william washingtonGoogle review ·
Reviews reflect individual experiences; prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
FAQ
Family Law & Child Custody Questions
How is custody decided in California?
Courts decide custody based on the best interest of the child. Judges consider the child's health, safety and welfare, any history of abuse, the nature of each parent's relationship with the child, and the child's need for frequent and continuing contact with both parents when that is safe.
What is the difference between legal and physical custody?
Legal custody is the right to make major decisions about a child's health, education and welfare. Physical custody refers to where the child lives. Either type can be joint (shared) or sole.
Can a custody order be changed?
Yes. A parent can ask the court to modify a custody or visitation order. For a final custody order, the parent typically must show a significant change in circumstances and that the change would be in the child's best interest.
Can I move with my child?
A move that would significantly affect the other parent's time with the child usually requires the other parent's agreement or a court order. Courts look closely at the reasons for the move and how it would affect the child. Talk to a lawyer before relocating.
What if the other parent ignores the order?
You can ask the court to enforce the order. Depending on the situation, options may include a request for order, makeup parenting time, or in serious cases a contempt action. Keep a written record of missed exchanges and communications.
Do I need a lawyer for mediation?
You are not required to have one, and attorneys usually do not attend court-connected mediation sessions. But meeting with a lawyer beforehand helps you understand your rights, prepare a realistic parenting plan and avoid agreeing to terms you do not fully understand.
Talk to a Lawyer About Your Situation
Your first consultation is free. Call or book online and we will review your options with you in plain English — en español también.
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