Law Offices of Makupson & Howard2025-07-23T17:58:27Zhttps://www.pasadenafamilylawfirmblog.com/feed/atom/WordPressOn Behalf of The Law Offices of Makupson & Howard<![CDATA[Relocations and move-aways: When you need court approval in LA county]]>https://www.pasadenafamilylawfirmblog.com/?p=461712025-07-23T17:58:27Z2025-07-23T17:58:27ZMoving with your child after a divorce or separation can be tricky, especially in a large area like Los Angeles County. You might wonder if you need court approval for a move, even within the same county. The answer is: it depends.
When court approval is necessary?
In LA County, you might need court approval even if you're moving within the county. This is because LA County is vast, with 88 cities. A move from one part of the county to another could significantly impact your child's life and your custody arrangement.For example, if you're moving from Pasadena to Long Beach, it's still within LA County. However, this move could affect your child's school, friendships and time with the other parent. In such cases, and particularly if the other parent does not agree, you might need to request a move-away order from the court, even though you're staying in the same county.
If you're thinking about moving, it's crucial to review your current custody order or judgment. These documents often include rules about relocations. For instance, they might require you to give the other parent written notice at least 45 days before you plan to move. Some orders also specify how far you can move without needing the other parent's written agreement approved by the court.
The importance of legal guidance
Seeking legal help is advisable when considering a move that might affect your custody arrangement. An experienced family law attorney can guide you through the process of requesting a move-away order if needed, or help you respond if the other parent is planning a move.Whether you need court approval for a move within LA County depends on your specific situation and custody arrangement. It's always best to err on the side of caution and consult with a legal professional. Remember, open communication with the other parent and a focus on your child's well-being can go a long way in navigating these challenging situations.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Makupson & Howard<![CDATA[Can my teen choose who they want to live with?]]>https://www.pasadenafamilylawfirmblog.com/?p=461702025-05-21T10:56:18Z2025-05-21T10:56:18ZDivorce can bring significant changes to a family's dynamics, especially when children are involved. In California, custody decisions aim to prioritize the child’s best interests.
Courts assess different factors, such as the child's age, emotional ties to each parent, and each parent's ability to care for the child. While younger children typically don’t have a say, teenagers may wonder if they can choose which parent they want to live with.
Can your teen choose their living arrangement?
In California, the law allows children aged 14 and older to express their preference regarding their living arrangements. However, this does not mean that a teenager can unilaterally decide. The court considers their preference as one of many factors in determining custody. Judges listen to the teen's wishes during custody hearings. Still, they must also weigh other aspects such as the stability of each household, the child's relationship with each parent and any other relevant circumstances. Ultimately, the court aims to serve the child's best interests, balancing their desires with practical considerations.
Are there any exceptions to the rule?
While a teen's preference holds weight in custody decisions, exceptions exist. If the court believes a teen's choice is influenced by negative factors such as manipulation or coercion, it may overrule their preference. Additionally, if a teen's choice jeopardizes their well-being or safety, the court will prioritize their welfare over their stated preference. Circumstances such as a parent's inability to provide a safe environment or issues related to substance abuse may lead the court to decide contrary to the teen's wishes. The court's primary concern remains the health and happiness of the child.
Seeking legal support
Custody cases can be complex and emotionally charged. A professional can offer valuable guidance to families navigating these challenges. They can help parents and teens understand their rights, prepare for hearings and advocate for arrangements that serve the child's best interests. With proper support, parents can reach resolutions that uphold the child's welfare and family harmony.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Makupson & Howard<![CDATA[3 challenges families living in Pasadena face]]>https://www.pasadenafamilylawfirmblog.com/?p=461692025-04-10T10:08:15Z2025-04-10T10:08:15ZPasadena is a beautiful city that many people have called home for multiple generations. Many others relocate to the area because of culture and personal opportunities. Families living in Pasadena may face a variety of challenges, especially if there are adjustments to the family unit. During a divorce or custody conflict, in particular, those living in Pasadena may find themselves facing some particularly significant personal challenges. They may struggle to handle practical matters at the same time that they prepare to navigate complex legal matters. What issues are Pasadena families likely to face while dealing with a family law matter?
A high cost of living
Pasadena has an average cost of living for a single person that is 42.6% higher than the national average. In fact, the local cost of living is 7.9% higher than the average in California. Basic expenses in Pasadena average out to $6,800 per month for a single person or $16,350 for a family. The monthly costs for a family living in Pasadena are 202.8% higher than the national average.
Housing challenges
When parents divorce or separate, one of them usually leaves the marital home and secures a rental home elsewhere. Doing so can be very difficult in Pasadena. There is a lot of housing demand and not necessarily adequate affordable housing supply in a city with slightly over 130,000 residents. Particularly if parents wish to remain in the same school district, they may find it incredibly difficult to secure temporary housing or find a property that is within their budget to purchase.
Limited economic activities
Pasadena has a thriving local economy. There are technology and aerospace businesses, as well as manufacturers and various service-based businesses thriving around the city. However, there are limits on the opportunities available to those in a variety of professions, as a mid-sized city can only support so many companies in any given niche. People preparing to address complicated family law matters may need help ensuring that they have enough support when tackling the challenges they may face because they live in Pasadena. Reviewing circumstances with someone familiar with the law and the area can help set parents and spouses up for success.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Makupson & Howard<![CDATA[Tips to prepare for successful mediation in family law cases]]>https://www.pasadenafamilylawfirmblog.com/?p=461682025-01-28T17:30:49Z2025-01-28T17:30:49ZKnow what to expect: What exactly is mediation, anyway?
Mediation is a structured process where a neutral third-party mediator helps both parties discuss and resolve their disputes. Unlike a court setting, mediation is less formal and encourages open communication. The tone is cooperative, aiming to find a resolution that works for both sides. This method allows you to voice your concerns and work towards solutions without the rigidity of courtroom proceedings.
Setting yourself up for success
Preparing for mediation in California can help you feel more confident and in control. Here are a few valuable tips:
Organize your financial documents: Having your financial information (like bank statements, pay stubs and tax returns) readily available will help the mediation move along smoothly and ensure everyone is on the same page.
Think about your priorities: What's most important to you in the divorce? Is it spousal support, dividing assets equally or creating a parenting plan that works for your kids? Knowing your priorities beforehand will help you stay focused.
Write down questions for the mediator: This will ensure you understand the process, your role, and what to expect. Don't be afraid to ask for clarification if anything is unclear.
Be ready to listen (and talk): Mediation works best when both parties come prepared to share their thoughts and listen to each other's perspectives.
Practice calm communication: Emotions can run high during mediation. Practicing calm and respectful communication can help you articulate your needs better and avoid emotional outbursts.
Taking the time to prepare for mediation is an investment in a smoother, less stressful divorce process. By preparing well, you reduce surprises and make wiser decisions. These tips can help you start the process with confidence, maintain your composure, and work towards resolutions that feel fair and manageable.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Makupson & Howard<![CDATA[What to expect during the divorce process]]>https://www.pasadenafamilylawfirmblog.com/?p=461672024-11-20T21:19:14Z2024-11-20T21:19:14ZFiling a petition for divorce
Whether it is you or your spouse, someone has to file a petition for divorce with the court. This notifies the court of your intent to divorce your spouse and begins the legal process in court. After the papers have been filed, the person who files them must ensure the other spouse is served with those papers.
Time to respond
After you file for divorce, the other party has the right to respond. Each state is different in how much time they give the other party, but typically it is anywhere from 14 to 28 days. During that time, the other spouse should hire an attorney and usually, the attorney will file the response with the court.
Temporary orders and motions
During this in-between time, the parties may go back and forth asking the court to file certain orders, like an order to freeze any financial assets, so the other spouse does not go out and spend all of their money. You can also file motions pertaining to the custody of your children, or the court may do so without you asking them, if necessary.
Research and discovery
During this phase, the parties exchange information about their assets, debts, and request answers to any questions they may have. This can happen via interrogatories, which are lists of questions, or a deposition, which is when the parties get together to ask one of the parties to answer questions under oath.
Negotiation and settlement
At this stage, the parties are ready to reach a resolution. Ideally, their attorneys have negotiated and found some form of common ground, even if the parties are not entirely happy with the outcome. More often than not, it is more beneficial for the parties to negotiate a settlement than it is for them to go to trial.
Every step of a divorce is critical and in most cases, mandatory. If you choose to go through the courts, you will most likely hit every one of these milestones as you head toward the day when the judge signs your settlement order and orders you divorced from your spouse.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Makupson & Howard<![CDATA[The benefits of mediation or collaborative divorce]]>https://www.pasadenafamilylawfirmblog.com/?p=461662024-09-20T12:35:35Z2024-09-20T12:35:35ZWhat is mediation?
Mediation is a voluntary process in which a neutral third party—known as a mediator—facilitates a conversation between divorcing spouses with the goal of helping them reach a mutually agreeable solution, which can result in a legally-enforceable divorce settlement.
Mediation can cover many, if not all, aspects of a divorce, including:
Division of assets
Child custody
Child support
Spouse support
What is collaborative divorce?
Collaborative divorce is a team-like approach to the divorce process. In it, attorneys trained in collaborative law and other professionals, such as financial advisors, child specialists and others, help the couple make all necessary decisions for their divorce.
Like mediation, collaborative divorce also aims to resolve disputes without going to court.
Benefits of mediation and collaborative divorce
The benefits of these methods of alternative dispute resolution are many, including:
Cost-effectiveness
Control over the outcome
Reduced conflict
Privacy
Faster resolution
Focus on relationships
Mediation and collaborative divorce offer a compassionate and effective alternative to going through the courts.
These methods are much less adversarial and help couples navigate their separation with dignity and respect by prioritizing communication between the divorcing spouses.]]>