At the White Oak Law, we take the time to set expectations with each of our clients. This includes dads, many who have questions about custody in CA and may want clarification on the various misconceptions that they’ve heard.

There’s a lot of information out there for those who are soon to be divorced, and much of this information is targeted at dads. To help you navigate myth from fact, here’s a few things you should know about custody and visitation for dads in California

California Family Law Courts Don’t Favor Moms

We hear this concern frequently, but the fact is, dads are not at a disadvantage because of their gender in California. In fact, it is explicitly written in the law that family law courts may not discriminate based on sex. 

Rather, most judges approach each case with 50/50 custody as the default, then adjust their decision based on how the proceedings go. 

Dads Don’t Automatically Get Custody Either

On the other hand, dads aren’t automatically entitled to custody or visitation simply on virtue of being the dad. In CA, the driving force behind any and all custody issues involves the best interests of the child. This means that they push for involved, frequent interactions with both parents. 

Whatever the plan might look like for each family and situation, it will always be designed to foster a strong, close relationship with both parents.

Family Law Judges Aren’t Always Without Bias

Unfortunately, while the system is designed to mitigate bias, humans are not infallible. This means that a given family law judge could potentially harbor overt or unconscious bias against a parent or entire sex. 

The best way to mitigate this to ensure that you come prepared with adequate legal counsel. An effective family law attorney can closely scrutinize the proceedings and help ensure that only objective, impartial facts are uncovered. He/she can help ensure that you’re represented fairly and in an unbiased light.

Navigating Child Custody Issues with an Attorney on Your Side

We hope this post provides some answers on the bigger questions involving dads and child custody/visitation in CA. Learn more about this, or about any other matter involving family law in CA by reaching out to a skilled legal professional.

Call us at the White Oak Law today to book a initial consultation with one of our experienced family law attorneys.