Family Law and Divorce Do it Yourself Series Part I: How to Modify an Existing Child Support Order in California?

This post is to help you file or just simply understand what your lawyer is doing when he or she agrees to assist you in modifying your existing child support order. 

Determining Custody: Child's Best Interest

In determining child custody where there hasn't been a permanent custody order by the court, the court will analyze the following factors in deciding what custody arrangement is in the best interests of the child (California Family Code Section 3011:

Long-Term Marriages in California

Under California law, ten-year plus marriages are presumed to be “lengthy” marriages or marriages of long duration for the purposes of spousal support.  By default, according to California family Code 4336, a marriage 10 years or more the court will retain jurisdiction over the spousal support issue unless you agree to something else your marital settlement agreement. 

Grandparent Visitation in California

The most likely route for Grandparents seeking visitation rights of their grandchildren is under California Family Code section 3104.  This code section provides conditions in which grandparents may petition the court for visitation.  Notice must be give to each of the child's parents, stepparents or one who has physical custody of the child.  This is done by personal service.