Child Custody And Visitation: Finding Common Ground For Families
Last updated on June 22, 2026
As parents, we understand that nothing comes before the well-being of our children. Figuring out a child custody arrangement can be deeply personal and sometimes challenging. You want to spend meaningful time with your children and shape their future in the most favorable way.
We understand these concerns and are here to help you pave the way toward a positive future for you and your children. At Cohen Family Law Group, APC, we’ve been helping families in the Encino area since 1996. Our lead child custody attorney, Gail Cohen, has over 35 years of experience as a litigator and mediator. She’s not just a seasoned lawyer; she’s also board-certified in family law by the California Board of Legal Specialization. Gail Cohen draws on her long-standing interest and understanding of developmental psychology to address children’s needs at every stage.
Breaking Down The Many Aspects Of Custody
There are many aspects to child custody and visitation, and in every case, the best interests of the child are the guiding standard under California family law. Our team can help you navigate considerations such as:
- Physical custody – where your children live
- Legal custody – who makes decisions for the children
- Joint vs. sole custody – sharing responsibilities or allocating them to one parent
- Custody modifications – adapting to life’s changes
- Custody evaluations – professional assessments to determine what’s best for the child
- Visitation rights and supervised visitation – applicable when one parent has primary custody and in special situations when supervision is warranted
- Parenting time – the specifics of the parenting plan with regard to the custody and visitation schedule
We can address all these considerations within the context of divorce, separation or paternity proceedings.
No matter your circumstances, our team is committed to helping you create a parenting plan that respects your child custody rights and prioritizes your children’s best interests. Whenever possible, we help clients pursue co-parenting agreements through negotiation or family law mediation. These approaches avoid the stress, delays and expense of court.
When Is It Time To Modify Custody?
Life does not stand still, and sometimes a custody plan needs to change. Custody modifications are appropriate when significant changes in circumstances occur such as job relocations or changes in the children’s needs. In California, parents often ask for custody changes after a job move, a change in work hours or new medical, school or emotional needs.
When you request a custody modification, the court looks at your child’s best interests. You explain what changed, how those changes affect your child and why the current order no longer fits your situation. You also explain how the new plan better supports your child now. Courts often expect clear details that show how the change improves daily routines and stability.
Many parents handle custody changes without going straight to court. You may resolve issues through discussion, negotiation or family law mediation. These options can reduce conflict and give you more control over the outcome. If no agreement is possible, the court reviews the facts and makes a decision based on the evidence presented.
Understanding California Stepparent Child Custody
If you are a stepparent, you may play a steady role in your stepchild’s life. California law, however, does not give stepparents the same legal status as parents in custody matters. Courts focus on how your role affects the child rather than on parental rights.
When stepparent custody issues arise, courts look at your bond with the child, the care you provide and how your involvement supports daily life. Judges also consider how long you have acted in a parental role and how changes could affect the child’s sense of security. Each case depends on its facts, and courts review whether your involvement serves the child’s best interests within the existing family structure.
Options For Grandparent Child Custody in California
Grandparents often step in when families face serious challenges. In California, you may seek custody when concerns arise about a child’s care, safety or stability. Courts start with a strong preference for parents to make decisions for their children, but they also consider situations that call for added support.
When courts review a grandparent custody request, they look at the child’s bond with you, the home you provide and the support you offer. Judges also consider the length of time the child has relied on you for care and whether your involvement promotes consistency. These cases require careful review and depend on the details of each family situation.
Let’s Put Your Children First
You want what’s best for your kids, and so do we. Our child custody lawyers can guide you through every aspect of child custody and visitation. Connect with our team online or by phone at 818-901-8900 to start shaping your child’s bright future.