Child Custody

Child custody law in California focuses on one priority above all else: the best interests of your child. Whether you’re going through a divorce, separation, or facing a custody dispute as an unmarried parent, the legal system requires clear, stable, and enforceable parenting arrangements.

At Fernandez Family Law, we help Central Coast parents understand their rights, advocate for their parenting role, and protect their relationship with their child—whether in court or through peaceful negotiation. We make complex custody issues simple, strategic, and child-focused.

How the Child Custody Process Works

Here’s how the child custody process typically unfolds in California:

✅ Step 1: Legal Consultation

We begin with a confidential conversation about your situation, concerns, and custody goals.

✅ Step 2: Identify Custody Types

We explain the difference between:

• Legal Custody – The right to make important decisions (education, healthcare, religion).
• Physical Custody – Where the child lives and how parenting time is shared.

✅ Step 3: Custody Proposal or Negotiation

We help you prepare a detailed Parenting Plan that outlines schedules, holidays, transportation, and decision-making authority.

✅ Step 4: Court Filing or Mediation

If an agreement is reached, it’s submitted for court approval. If not, the judge may order mediation or set a court date.

✅ Step 5: Court Hearing (If Needed)

We present your case in court with clarity, documentation, and a firm grasp of what’s best for your child.

✅ Step 6: Final Custody Order

The judge issues a custody order that is legally enforceable and binding.

What to Expect Emotionally & Legally During a Custody Case

Child custody cases are high-stakes and deeply emotional. It’s normal to feel uncertain, frustrated, or fearful—especially if you worry about losing time with your child or facing an uncooperative co-parent.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Clarity on your rights as a mother, father, or legal guardian
• Strong advocacy when safety, consistency, or fairness is at risk
• Creative solutions when co-parenting is strained
• Ongoing support through modifications or enforcement actions

We work to reduce conflict, prioritize your child’s needs, and protect your parental role.

What Makes Fernandez Family Law Different

When it comes to custody cases in San Luis Obispo and the Central Coast, experience and empathy matter. Here’s why families trust us:

• ✅ Local Knowledge – We know the judges, mediators, and court processes in San Luis Obispo County.
• ✅ Child-Focused Strategy – We center every case around your child’s stability, safety, and development.
• ✅ Custody Litigation + Mediation Experience – Whether your case calls for courtroom strength or peaceful resolution, we’re prepared.
• ✅ Tailored Representation – We don’t do one-size-fits-all. Your family gets a custom legal plan.

Speak to a San Luis Obispo Child Custody Attorney Today

If you’re facing a custody battle, co-parenting dispute, or need to modify an existing order, you don’t have to face it alone. At Fernandez Family Law, we help parents throughout San Luis Obispo and the Central Coast protect their rights, preserve their bond with their child, and create a path toward long-term peace.

📞 Call us today for a confidential child custody consultation.
Your child’s future is too important to leave to chance—and too personal to trust to just anyone.