Legal Question in Family Law in California

I have a 9 year old son. His father and I have been living together since right before he was born. We are not married, live in CA. I have been head of household for most of the 9 years and have filed my individual taxes as head of household. We are now separating, so far it is amicable. I doubt the dad will want 50% custody, he will probably see his son a few afternoons a week and that is it, which is fine with me.... do I need to do anything? Do I need to get custody papers drawn up for any particular reason? I don't want to create a problem where there isn't one... I just don't want to miss anything either.


Asked on 1/17/12, 5:12 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

It would be best to sit down and discuss it rather than assuming anything, and then put it in writing and get a stipulated order from the Family Court. Far better to do that now when things are relatively nice and happy, than have to rush into court in combat mode if anything goes wrong between you. You've got 9 years tied to each other (and a lifetime bond after that). A lot can happen. Clear understandings, recorded agreements, and shared expectations can save a WORLD of hurt later on when life throws a curve ball.

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Answered on 1/17/12, 5:21 pm


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