Few issues in a divorce or separation are as emotionally charged—or as important—as child custody and visitation. When the well-being of your child is at stake, it’s natural to feel anxious, protective, and overwhelmed by the legal process. Understanding how California courts handle custody can help you make informed decisions and protect your relationship with your child.

At M.C. Law, P.C.., Attorney Mayasha Christian guides parents through even the most difficult custody disputes with skill, compassion, and strategic legal representation. This guide explains how custody works in California and what you can expect throughout the process.

Legal Custody vs. Physical Custody

California recognizes two separate types of custody, and both impact your rights as a parent.

1. Legal Custody

Legal custody determines who has the authority to make major decisions about the child’s life, including:

• Education
• Medical and dental care
• Therapy or counseling
• Religious upbringing
• Extracurricular activities

Legal custody may be:

• Joint legal custody – both parents share decision-making
• Sole legal custody – one parent has final decision-making authority

2. Physical Custody

Physical custody determines where the child lives most of the time.

It may be:

• Joint physical custody – the child spends significant time with both parents
• Sole physical custody – the child primarily lives with one parent, while the other may receive visitation

Every custody order must include both a legal and physical custody designation.

How Courts Decide Custody: The “Best Interest” Standard

In California, the child’s best interest is the guiding factor behind every custody decision. Judges consider many elements, including:

• The child’s health, safety, and welfare
• Each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs
• Emotional ties between parent and child
• Continuity and stability in the child’s home life
• Each parent’s history of caregiving
• Any history of abuse, neglect, or domestic violence
• Substance abuse issues
• The child’s preference (if age and maturity allow)
• The willingness of each parent to support the child’s relationship with the other parent

California law does not automatically favor mothers over fathers. Instead, judges focus on creating arrangements that support a healthy and stable upbringing.

What Is Visitation?

When one parent receives sole or primary physical custody, the other parent typically receives visitation. Visitation may be:

✔ Scheduled visitation

A detailed plan outlining days, times, holidays, and vacation schedules.

✔ Reasonable visitation

A more flexible plan that parents coordinate themselves.

✔ Supervised visitation

Used when safety concerns exist, such as substance abuse or a history of domestic violence.

✔ No visitation

Rare and used only in cases where contact would endanger the child.

Attorney Mayasha Christian helps parents negotiate or litigate visitation plans tailored to their family’s needs.

When Custody Becomes High-Conflict

Custody disputes often become the most challenging part of divorce. High-conflict situations may arise when parents disagree about:

• Parenting styles
• Safety concerns
• School or medical decisions
• Relocation or travel
• Amount of time spent with each parent

During these disputes, having experienced representation is essential. Attorney Christian works to protect your parental rights while prioritizing your child’s emotional and physical well-being.

Can Custody Orders Be Modified?

Yes—custody and visitation orders can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as:

• A parent relocating
• Changes in the child’s needs
• Job schedule changes
• Safety concerns
• Substance abuse or criminal issues
• A parent failing to follow the order

The goal is always to ensure the custody arrangement remains in the child’s best interest.

Why Legal Guidance Is Essential in Custody Cases

Child custody cases are not just legal proceedings—they are deeply personal family matters that shape your child’s life. At M.C. Law, P.C., Attorney Mayasha Christian provides:

• Strategic negotiation
• Compassionate guidance
• Strong courtroom representation
• Personalized custody strategies
• Protection during high-conflict disputes
• Assistance with parenting plans, mediation, and evaluations

No matter your circumstances, Attorney Christian is committed to standing by your side and fighting for the best possible outcome for your family.

Speak With a Los Angeles Child Custody Attorney Today

If you are facing a custody dispute—or want to better understand your parental rights—our team is here to help.