Family Law A to Z

In California, guardianship is a legal relationship in which an individual (the guardian) is appointed by the court to care for and make decisions on behalf of a child when the parents are unable or unwilling to fulfill their parental responsibilities. Guardianship can be a temporary or long-term arrangement, and it is different from adoption…

Using the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) Interstate child custody disputes are legally complex and often emotionally charged. In California, jurisdictional issues in custody matters involving more than one state are governed by the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA), which has been adopted by nearly all U.S. states. In…

In California, legal separation is a formal court process that resolves issues like property division, child custody, and spousal support — without terminating the marriage itself. A legal separation results in a court order that can protect both parties’ legal and financial interests but leaves them technically married. Legal separations in California are governed primarily…

A Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA) is a legally binding contract between divorcing spouses that outlines the terms of their divorce, including property division, custody, support, and other matters. It is often incorporated into the final Judgment of Dissolution. Legal Requirements for a Valid MSA in California To be valid and enforceable under California law, a…

When to Modify Child Custody and Child Support Orders in California In California, child custody and child support orders are not necessarily permanent. Courts allow modifications when there is a material change in circumstances that affects the best interests of the child (Family Code §§ 3020–3048 for custody and Family Code §§ 4050–4076 for support)….

In California, parental rights and responsibilities are rooted in the principle that the best interest of the child governs all decisions related to custody, visitation, and support. These rights and obligations apply equally to both parents, regardless of marital status, unless a court orders otherwise. Key Parental Rights 1. Legal Custody – Family Code §…

In California, marital agreements — including prenuptial and postnuptial agreements — are governed primarily by the California Family Code, particularly under the Uniform Premarital Agreement Act (UPAA), located at Family Code §§ 1600–1617. These agreements allow couples to define financial and property rights either before (prenuptial) or after (postnuptial) marriage. California is a community property…

California is a community property state. This means that any assets or debts acquired during the marriage are generally considered community property and are, by default, subject to an equal (50/50) division between the spouses upon divorce. The rationale behind this rule is that both parties contributed to the marital partnership, regardless of which spouse…

Understanding Spousal Support in California If you’re going through a divorce in California, you might be wondering how spousal support (sometimes called alimony) works. It’s a big topic and often feels emotional and overwhelming — but understanding the basics can help you feel more prepared. In California, there are two main types of spousal support:…

The termination of parental rights (TPR) in California is a serious legal action that permanently ends the legal parent-child relationship. It is most often pursued in the context of adoption proceedings, child welfare cases, or when a parent is deemed unfit due to abandonment, neglect, or abuse. Parental rights may be terminated involuntarily (without a…