Child Custody & Family Law
Child Custody & Family Law
Child Custody Agreement & Court Document Preparation in Sacramento, California and Surrounding Counties.
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PARALEGAL vs L.D.A.
A Paralegal is someone who works under the supervision of an attorney and cannot be directly contracted by the public. A Legal Document Assistant (LDA), however, is registered and bonded and can be contracted directly by clients to prepare child custody paperwork and related legal documents at the client’s direction. LDAs undergo special training and continuing education to provide reliable document preparation services.
EGAL DOCUMENT ASSISTANT, L.D.A.
An LDA is a non-attorney professional who prepares legal documents that you specifically direct them to prepare. For child custody matters, an LDA can prepare custody petitions, parenting plans, custody agreements, visitation schedules, and child support documentation - all tailored to your situation and ready for filing with your local court.
DIFFERENCES AND SIMILARITIES
Legal Document Assistants can prepare your custody documents without attorney supervision, but cannot provide legal advice or represent you in court. If your child custody matter becomes complex or requires representation, we can refer you to an attorney. Neither an LDA nor a paralegal acts as your lawyer.
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Understading
Breakdown of Child Custody Terms
What Is Physical Custody?
- Physical custody determines where your child lives and who provides day-to-day care. It can be joint (shared) or sole. Courts focus on the child’s best interests, considering factors such as stability, safety, and each parent’s ability to care for the child.
What Is Legal Custody?
- Legal custody refers to decision-making authority about important aspects of your child’s life - like education, health care, and religion. Parents can share legal custody or one parent may have sole legal authority depending on the situation.
What Are Child Support Orders?
- Child support is a financial obligation one parent pays to help meet the child’s needs. Support is generally calculated according to state guidelines based on income and time spent with the child. Custody agreements often include child support terms.
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Payment Plans Available
Price Includes Notarized Marriage Stipulation Agreement, If Applicable, For An Uncontested Divorce.
Child Custody Document Preparation Fees:
- Child Custody Documentation Only - $799
- Custody + Visitation Agreements - $799
- Custody + Visitation + Support Documentation - $799
Additional Fees:
- Mandatory Court Filing Fees - $799
- Optional Court Filing Service - $799
- Optional Process Serving - $799
Start Your Legal Documents Online
Choose the service you need, complete our simple online intake form, and submit payment to get started. Your matter will be assigned to an experienced Registered Legal Document Assistant who will personally prepare your documents based on the information and instructions you provide.
Once your documents are ready, you can review and electronically sign them online. We can also assist with filing and service when included with your selected service.
Professional legal document preparation—made simple, efficient, and accessible from anywhere in California.
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Understanding the Child Custody Process
Navigating child custody - whether during divorce, separation, or as a standalone case - can be stressful. The court’s primary concern is the best interests of the child. This often includes evaluating factors like the child’s age, emotional and physical needs, parental stability, and parent-child relationships. Parents may come to a mutual agreement outside court; if not, custody matters may proceed through mediation or be decided by a judge.
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Child Custody
Filing for Child Custody: Step-by-Step Guide
File a Petition
Begin your custody case by filing a custody petition with your local family court.
Serve the Other Parent
The other parent must be formally served with custody papers.
Response Period
The other parent has a limited time to respond.
Exchange Information
Financial and caretaking information may be exchanged.
Agreement or Mediation
Parties may reach a parenting plan or go to mediation.
Court Hearing (if needed)
If no agreement is reached, a judge decides custody.
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Types of
Child Custody
Contested vs. Uncontested Custody
- Uncontested Custody - Both parents agree to terms. Typically faster, less expensive, and can be finalized once the court approves the parenting plan.
- Contested Custody- Parents disagree on terms. Requires more documentation, possibly mediation, and may involve court hearings.
- Understanding these differences helps you prepare your case and expectations.
Legal Requirements for Custody Cases
- Custody laws vary by state. In California, the court considers the best interests of the child in every decision, including physical living arrangements, visitation schedules, and parental decision-making authority. You must file in the state/county with proper jurisdiction. If your case crosses state lines, special rules like the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) may apply.
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Our Roles
LDA Pro Legal is here to Help
The Role of a Legal Document Assistant in Custody Matters
- An LDA helps prepare your custody forms and agreements per your instructions. This includes petitions, custody schedules, support worksheets, and mediation documents. While LDAs don’t provide legal advice, they ensure your documents comply with court rules and filing requirements.
Why Accurate Documentation Matters
- Custody outcomes hinge on clear, well-organized paperwork. Inconsistent or incomplete documents can delay your case or affect your desired outcome. A well-prepared custody agreement reflects your intentions and helps the court understand your position.
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Faqs
Have Questions
in Your Mind?
Joint custody means both parents share time and/or decision making over the child.
Yes. Custody orders can be modified if circumstances change, with court approval.
No - especially for uncontested agreements - but if your case is complex or contentious, legal representation can be beneficial.
The child’s best interests, parental stability, existing living arrangements, and ability to meet the child’s needs.
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