What Are My Parental Rights in California?

When Are Parental Rights Established?

In most cases, women gain parental rights the moment they give birth. Men gain parental rights the moment that their married partner gives birth to their biological child. However, men must also be listed on the birth certificate to gain parental rights or establish parentage. Both men and women can gain parental rights through adoption as well.

If you have any questions about parental rights or are going through a child custody case, an experienced family law attorney can help. Our team at Khosroabadi & Hill would be happy to assist you in protecting your parental rights or learn more about your rights as a parent. Call us today at 858-240-2093 to see how we can help you.

What Rights Am I Entitled To?

It is important for parents to understand their rights when it comes to raising a family in California. Understanding your legal rights can help protect yourself and your children from potential legal issues. These are the rights you are entitled to under California law:

Custody Rights

Parents have the right to determine what type of environment their children live in and make decisions regarding their schooling and health care. The court will look at various factors when deciding which parent should have primary custody, including the emotional and physical health of each parent, the parent’s ability to provide for the child financially and emotionally, and any history of domestic violence or substance abuse.

Visitation Rights

Parents who don’t have full custody still have a right to spend time with their children. Visitation schedules are typically based on the best interests of the child.

This may include weekends, holidays, and special occasions such as birthdays. Noncustodial parents also have a right to receive information about their children’s healthcare needs and educational progress.

Decision-Making Rights

Both parents have the right to participate in making decisions regarding their children’s upbringing. This includes decisions about education, religious practices, and medical treatment. Both parents must consent to any significant decision, such as moving out of state or changing schools.

Financial Support

Parents are legally obligated to provide for their children financially. Noncustodial parents may be required to pay child support to help cover the costs of raising a child.

Custodial parents may also be entitled to collect alimony from a noncustodial parent if they were married or had a common-law marriage before having children together.

If you are unsure of your parental rights under California law, it is essential to consult with an experienced family law attorney who can help you understand your legal rights and ensure they are protected. We are here to answer all your questions and provide you with guidance. Contact us today for a free consultation.

What Can Threaten My Parental Rights?

In California, parental rights may be threatened if the parent is deemed unfit or negligent. This includes situations such as abuse, neglect, substance abuse, or criminal activity that puts the children in danger. If a court believes that a parent’s behavior poses an imminent threat to the safety of their children, then they may strip them of their rights and award custody to another family member or even place them with Child Protective Services.

While protecting your parental rights can be difficult, it is crucial to have experienced legal representation on your side who can help you understand and defend your legal rights.

How Can I Protect My Rights During a Child Custody Case?

The court will always act in the child or children’s best interest. Unless you are being accused of abuse or neglect, it’s unlikely that the court will take away your parental rights, even if the other parent is seeking full custody. Most of the time, the court will seek to keep both parents’ rights intact unless they are deemed unfit or unsafe guardians.

You can protect your rights during a child custody case by proving that you are a fit parent and that keeping your parental rights is best for your child. Bringing in evidence, like photos and videos of you with your child, may bolster your case. If your child is old enough, the court will likely ask them if they feel safe and welcome at home with you. In California, old enough is discretionary by the Court, but normally around 14 years old the court will ensure that a child’s voice is heard if they request it.

The best way to protect your rights as a parent is to hire an experienced lawyer. A professional lawyer will advocate for your rights in court and defend any allegations from the other parent. A lawyer on our team can also help prepare you for any court dates and walk you through court proceedings so you understand how they work and what the potential outcomes may be.

Will Hiring a Lawyer Protect My Rights as a Parent?

The answer to this question is a resounding yes. Having an attorney on your side is invaluable when protecting your parental rights. With the right legal representation, you can ensure that your perspective and interests are heard and respected during court proceedings or negotiations involving custody and visitation issues.

In some cases, having an attorney may even help prevent a worst-case scenario altogether—such as if one parent threatens to take the child away without the other’s consent or permission. By securing legal counsel quickly, you can ensure that the appropriate steps are taken to protect the child’s safety while preserving your parental rights. An experienced lawyer will understand how vital your role is as a parent.

When Should I Contact a Lawyer?

If you have any doubts or concerns about your parental rights, it is essential to contact an attorney as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you understand California’s parental laws and ensure that your interests are represented throughout the process. An attorney can also assist you with filing legal documents, such as a petition for custody or visitation rights, and advocate on your behalf during court proceedings. By having an experienced lawyer on your side, you can rest assured that your parental rights will be protected throughout every step of the process. Contact Khosroabadi & Hill today at 858-240-2093 to learn more about our services.