Domestic violence is a serious issue that can have devastating impacts on victims and families. If you are suffering from abuse by a spouse, partner, or family member in California, you may be able to legally protect yourself by obtaining a restraining order. However, proving domestic violence occurred in court requires providing substantial evidence. For that reason, our attorneys at Harris Family Law Group will provide you with a clear understanding of what constitutes domestic violence under California law and the steps you can take to prove it. What is Domestic Violence in California? Cal ..read more

Child support is a financial obligation placed on a parent to help provide for the basic needs of their child. In California, child support is typically ordered to continue until a child reaches the age of 18 or graduates’ high school, whichever comes later. But what happens if your child wants to pursue higher education? Does your responsibility to pay child support extend to college costs? In this guide, our Harris Family Law Group team will explore the legal dynamics surrounding this issue and provide you with a comprehensive understanding of your responsibilities. Basic Child Support Obli ..read more

When parents decide to divorce, one of the biggest concerns is how to ensure the children’s financial needs are met. Child support plays a crucial role in providing for a child’s well-being after a marriage ends. But when exactly is child support determined?   Yes, Child Support is Typically Decided During Divorce In most cases, child support is addressed during the divorce proceedings. This allows the court to establish a fair and consistent support plan right from the start. Here is why it is beneficial to settle child support during the divorce: Provides stability for children: Child ..read more

Divorce is a difficult process for everyone involved, especially children. One of the most challenging aspects can be determining child custody arrangements. In California, like in many other states, the law prioritizes the child’s best interests. This begs the question, can children in California choose which parent they live with after a divorce? A Voice, Not a Final Say California law allows children to express their preference regarding which parent they would like to live with primarily. However, it is important to understand that a child’s preference is just one factor considered by the ..read more

The bond between a father and child is one of the most precious relationships in life. A father’s presence, love, and guidance are crucial in shaping a child’s emotional, social, and cognitive development. In California, fathers have various options to establish and protect their parental rights, ensuring they can actively participate in their child’s upbringing. At Harris Family Law Group, we understand the importance of this bond and are dedicated to helping fathers get through the legal challenges of gaining rights for their children. Establishing Paternity The first step in gaining parent ..read more

At Harris Family Law Group, we understand that marriage is a significant milestone in life and often involves making important decisions about finances and assets. One of these decisions can include creating a prenuptial agreement. As experienced family law attorneys, we often get asked whether couples with a prenuptial agreement also need a postnuptial agreement. This article explores the differences between these two types of agreements and guides whether a postnuptial agreement may be necessary for those already having a prenuptial agreement. Understanding Prenuptial Agreements A prenuptia ..read more

It is not easy to deal with co-parenting, especially when issues like punctuality arise. If you find yourself in a situation where your ex is consistently late in dropping the kids back off, it is essential to address the matter promptly and effectively. This comprehensive guide explores practical steps you can take to manage this common co-parenting challenge. Read on to learn more! First of All, Understand the Impact Late arrivals can disrupt routines and create unnecessary stress for you and your children. Before taking any steps, it is crucial to assess the impact of the tardiness on your ..read more

Ensuring timely child support payments is crucial for the well-being of your child. If you find yourself dealing with consistently late payments, you may wonder when it is appropriate to involve the legal system. The Harris Family Law Group understands the challenges you may face, and in this guide, we will provide practical insights on when and how to get the courts involved. What are Your Rights? When child support payments arrive late, it is important to be aware of your rights as a custodial parent. Child support is a legal obligation, and non-payment can have serious consequences for the ..read more

The need to modify a custody arrangement may arise when dealing with the challenges of co-parenting. At Harris Family Law Group, we understand that circumstances change, and flexibility is crucial for the well-being of all parties involved. It is possible for co-parents to modify their custody arrangement without involving a judge in California. In this guide, we will provide you with essential information on the process and considerations involved in making modifications to a custody agreement. Understanding the Initial Custody Order Before seeking modifications, it is crucial to have a clea ..read more

Dealing with the ups and downs of shared custody can be a daunting task. The constant interaction with your ex and the need to keep track of parenting time can add to the inherent challenges of co-parenting. However, perhaps one of the most emotionally charged aspects is the prospect of not being able to share crucial moments with your children. Birthdays and holidays represent significant occasions for family bonding. How do you address and allocate these special days to ensure a balanced and harmonious co-parenting experience? Our experts at the Harris Family Law Group seek answers to t ..read more