Most of us love our pets and consider them an essential part of our family. So when a divorce occurs and couples find themselves having to figure out who gets to keep Fido, things can quickly get contentious. We at the White Oak Law are passionate about our furry companions, and decided to take the time to discuss pet custody in this post.

The following is a brief breakdown of how pet custody works in the State of California. For more in-depth information, remember that you can always call us directly at our offices to learn more about how we can help.

How California Courts Establish Pet Custody

In general, pets are regarded as property when it comes to family law in California. This means that, in the case of a divorce or separation, a pet will usually go to the individual who can provide proof of ownership or purchase. In cases where pets fall under community property, the courts may mandate for one party to compensate the other for the value of the pet before being allowed to keep it. That said, there are some cases where even though pets are property, judges may weigh in on what they believe to be in the best interests of the pet.

Resolving Pet Custody Issues via Mediation

In cases where you and your ex-spouse are unable to come to an agreement, we advise that you seek to resolve the dispute without the involvement of the courts. It is more economical and effective to rely on a mediator, a professional third party that can facilitate negotiations. A qualified family law attorney can provide you with professional mediation services without having to involve formal, time-consuming legal procedures.

Consult With an Experienced California Family Law Attorney

To summarize, pets are usually regarded as property in California, and the individual who can provide proof of purchase or ownership will usually be granted “custody.” Remember that if you have any other questions, or if you’re dealing with any type of divorce or family law matter in California, we at the White Oak Law are here to help.

Call us today to speak with a qualified family law attorney. We offer initial consultations!