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Top Questions Concerning Child Support and Military Personnel

Top Questions Concerning Child Support and Military Personnel

Child support is a critical aspect of Family Law. Thousands of military personnel and their families reside in California, so it is essential to understand how child support orders affect service members and their families in the state. Certified Family Law Specialist Judy L. Burger addresses some of the most common questions concerning child support and military personnel.

Child Support and the Military FAQ

Every situation is different, so you need to consult with Family Law Attorney Judy Burger when questions or issues arise about child support and service members. Here are some basics to know about child support and military personnel.

  1. How is child support calculated for military personnel?

In California, child support is calculated based on several factors, including each parent’s income, time spent with the child, and other expenses. However, there are additional considerations for service members, including allowances and special pay, like Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), hazardous duty pay, sea pay, and more. Although some of these forms of pay are non-taxable, California law includes them all when calculating child support.

  1. Can military personnel be ordered to pay child support even if they are stationed overseas?

Yes. The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) protects active-duty military personnel from legal action, including child support proceedings, while on active duty. However, this protection does not apply to service members who are not on active duty or who are in arrears in their child support payments.

  1. Can military personnel be held in contempt of court for failure to pay child support?

Yes. Failure to pay child support can result in serious consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and loss of security clearance. It is essential to keep up with child support payments, even if stationed overseas or on active duty.

  1. Can military personnel modify child support orders?

Yes, military personnel can modify support orders based on a change in circumstances, such as a change in income or a change in the custody arrangement. However, it is essential to follow the proper legal procedures for modifying support orders to avoid potential legal consequences. The Family Court generally grants expedited hearings for service members who receive deployment orders and need to address child support or custody order modifications.

  1. What happens to child support payments if service members are deployed or transferred?

If soldiers, sailors, airmen, or marines are deployed or transferred, child support payments must continue to be made. However, there are legal provisions that allow for modifications to child support orders in these circumstances. It is crucial to contact experienced Family Law Attorney Judy Burger to help you navigate the legal process.

Get Help from a California Child Support Lawyer

Child support can be a complicated issue, especially for military families. It is essential to understand the legal requirements and protections afforded to military personnel. California Family Code §3047 provides guidance for many issues that can arise when a military service member faces mobilization, deployment, or a temporary assignment that takes them outside the state or country and causes complications with following court-ordered support or custody agreements.

Attorney Judy Burger can provide guidance and support to ensure that child support obligations are met and that the best interests of the child are protected. Child custody and support issues are already challenging, and the pressure of unexpected changes due to military service adds even more complexity. Get the help you need in California from The Law Offices of Judy L. Burger. We have eight offices to serve you.

Penalties for False Child Abuse Allegations

Penalties for False Child Abuse Allegations

When child abuse allegations are made, it is crucial to take them seriously and investigate them thoroughly. The welfare of the child is paramount, and if the allegations are true, the offender should be held accountable. However, when false allegations are made, the consequences can be severe for everyone involved.

Certified Family Law Specialist Judy L. Burger explains more about the potential penalties for false child abuse allegations in California to prevent false accusations and protect the rights of all parties involved.

False Allegations of Child Abuse in California

False allegations of child abuse are taken seriously in California. It is considered a form of child abuse and can result in serious consequences for the accuser. False allegations can be made intentionally or unintentionally, and they can be made for many reasons, including:

  • To gain an advantage in a child custody battle
  • To get revenge on a spouse or partner
  • To deflect attention away from the accuser’s own misconduct
  • To seek attention or sympathy from others

None of these reasons are sufficient grounds for these actions.

California Family Code Division 8, Chapter 1, Section 3027.5. Sexual abuse of child; report or treatment; limitations on custody or visitation, paragraph b states:

“The court may order supervised visitation or limit a parent’s custody or visitation if the court finds substantial evidence that the parent, with the intent to interfere with the other parent’s lawful contact with the child, made a report of child sexual abuse, during a child custody proceeding or at any other time, that the reporting parent knew was false at the time it was made. A limitation of custody or visitation, including an order for supervised visitation, pursuant to this subdivision, or a statute regarding the making of a false child abuse report, shall be imposed only after the court has determined that the limitation is necessary to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the child. The court has considered the state’s policy of ensuring that children have frequent and continuing contact with both parents as declared in subdivision (b) of Section 3020.”

Penalties for False Child Abuse Allegations in California

False allegations of child abuse can result in severe legal consequences for the accuser. The penalties in California include:

  1. Criminal Charges: Making false accusations of child abuse is a crime in California under State Penal Code § 11172. If found guilty, the accuser can be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the severity. The penalties can include jail time and fines.
  2. Civil Penalties: False allegations of child abuse can also result in civil penalties. The accused can file a civil lawsuit against the accuser for defamation, emotional distress, and other damages. If found guilty, the accuser may have to pay substantial damages.
  3. Loss of Custody: False allegations of child abuse can also result in the loss of custody of the child. If the court determines that the allegations were made with the intent to harm or deceive, the accuser can lose custody of the child and may even have their parental rights terminated.
  4. Criminal Record: If the accuser is convicted of making false allegations of child abuse, they will have a criminal record. This can make it challenging to find employment and housing and can also impact their ability to obtain custody of their children in the future.

Protecting the Welfare of Children

It is crucial to protect the welfare of the child in all cases of child abuse, whether the allegations are true or false. False allegations can harm everyone involved, including the accused, the accuser, and the child. Investigating all allegations thoroughly and taking appropriate legal action, if necessary, is essential.

If you or someone you know is facing false allegations of child abuse, it is crucial to seek legal guidance from a Certified Family Law Specialist to protect your rights and your child’s welfare. Attorney Judy Burger can provide the guidance and support you need to navigate this challenging situation and protect your family’s best interests. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Can a Restraining Order in California Prevent Me From Getting a Job?

Can a Restraining Order in California Prevent Me From Getting a Job?

A restraining order is a legal order that prohibits a person from contacting or coming close to another person. In California, restraining orders can be obtained by individuals who have experienced domestic violence, harassment, stalking, or other forms of abuse. While a restraining order can provide much-needed protection, it can also have significant consequences.

Can a restraining order in California prevent me from getting a job? Certified Family Law Specialist Judy L. Burger addresses this important question.

Restraining Orders and Employment Background Checks

Under the California Fair Chance Act of 2018 (recently modified), employers are prohibited from inquiring about criminal history information or disseminating it in any form or manner before making a conditional job offer, including through background checks, internet searches, or other means.

However, the California Fair Chance Act Overview FAQ states:

“After offering you a job, employers are allowed to conduct a criminal history check, but the law requires an individualized assessment about your conviction history. That means that an employer can’t take back the job offer without considering the nature and gravity of the criminal history, the time that has passed since the conviction, and the nature of the job you are seeking. If the employer decides to take back the job offer based on your criminal history, they must tell you so in writing, provide a copy of any conviction history report they relied on, and give you at least five business days to respond.”

When an employer conducts a background check and discovers that you have a restraining order against you, it can impact your ability to get a job. Potential employers may view these orders as a red flag, indicating that you may have a history of violence or harassment. As a result, the employer may choose not to hire you, even if you are otherwise qualified for the job.

It is worth noting that under California law, employers cannot discriminate against employees or job applicants based on their status as victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. This means that an employer cannot refuse to hire you simply because you have an order of protection against someone else.

Types of Restraining Orders

In California, there are four types of restraining orders that a person can obtain:

  1. Domestic Violence 
  2. Civil Harassment 
  3. Elder or Dependent Adult Abuse 
  4. Workplace Violence 

Of these types of restraining orders, only a workplace violence restraining order is specifically related to employment. An employer obtains a workplace violence restraining order against an employee or former employee who has threatened violence or caused harm in the workplace. If an employer obtains a workplace violence restraining order against an employee, it can seriously impact the employee’s ability to find employment in the future.

What to Do If You Have a Restraining Order

If you have a restraining order against you in California, it is important to understand how it can impact your ability to get a job. While a restraining order may not prevent you from being hired in all cases, it can be a factor employers consider when hiring.

If you have a restraining order against you, it is important to be sure that a potential employer is following the law when considering you for employment. Be upfront with potential employers about your situation and seek legal advice if you believe you are unfairly discriminated against during the application or hiring process.

CA Family Law Attorney Judy L. Burger can explain more about restraining orders, how they work, what to do if you need one or have one, how to have one modified or removed, and more in a confidential consultation. Contact our office at one of the eight locations nearest you.

 

Jointly-Owned Businesses and Divorce

Jointly-Owned Businesses and Divorce

When a couple decides to end their marriage, one of the most complex issues that they may face is the division of property. This can be especially difficult when the couple owns a business together. Jointly-owned businesses in California add another layer of complexity to the divorce process. What are your options for keeping or dividing the business? How does California law impact these decisions?

Certified Family Law Specialist Judy L. Burger discusses the specific considerations that need to be taken into account during a divorce involving a jointly-owned business.

Community Property Laws in California

California is a community property state, which means that any assets acquired during the marriage are presumed community property and if found to be community property, must be divided equally between the spouses in the event of a divorce. This includes any businesses that the couple owns jointly. In California, the ownership of a business is determined by both the legal and economic interests of each party.

Legal Interest vs. Economic Interest

Legal interest refers to the ownership interest that is reflected in the legal documents of the business. Economic interest refers to the actual value of the business. In some cases, these interests may not be equal. For example, one spouse may have a greater legal interest in the business. Still, the other spouse may have contributed more to the business and may have a greater economic interest.

Valuing Jointly-Owned Businesses

In order to divide the business equally, it is important to determine the value of the business accurately. This can be a complex process and may require the assistance of a business appraiser or accountant. The appraiser will take into account the assets and liabilities of the business, as well as any future earnings potential.

Options for Dividing the Business

Once the value of jointly-owned businesses has been determined, there are several options for dividing it. One spouse may buy out the other spouse’s interest in the business. This can be done by paying the other spouse their share of the business in cash or by exchanging other assets of equal value. Another option is for the spouses to continue to co-own the business. This can be a difficult option, as it requires the spouses to continue to work together, despite the end of their marriage.

Protecting the Business

In some cases, it may be possible to protect the business from being divided during a divorce. This can be done through a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement that outlines how the business will be treated in the event of a divorce. It is important to consult with an experienced Family Law Attorney like Judy Burger to ensure that any agreements are legally enforceable.

Get Help from a Seasoned CA Family Law Attorney

Divorce can be a difficult and emotional process, especially when it involves a jointly-owned business. It is important to work with a seasoned family law attorney who can help you navigate the complexities of dividing a business during a divorce. Ending a marriage and severing a business relationship at the same time requires keen wisdom in human relationships as well as an encyclopedic knowledge of the law.

Judy Burger is a Certified Family Law Specialist who can guide you through the rocky shoals of divorce and help you with property division concerns over a jointly-owned business. She has solid working relationships with various professionals who can help her protect your interests and ensure that your rights are protected. These accountants, appraisers, business attorneys, real estate brokers, and other professionals work with her to help you get the most from any business division of property due to divorce.

Contact The Law Offices of Judy L. Burger today to learn more and schedule a consultation.

 

May an Imprisoned Parent Have Child Visitation Rights in California?

May an Imprisoned Parent Have Child Visitation Rights in California?

Almost 200,000 kids in California have a parent in jail. This can create complex parenting and custody issues. One of the thorniest problems can be child visitation rights for the incarcerated parent. The parent’s crimes, existing relationship with the child and other parent, and the attitude of the Family Court all have an impact on decisions.

Under California law, any solution must ensure the child’s best interests. This means there can be many options and solutions. Family Law Attorney Judy L. Burger examines the question, “May an imprisoned parent have child visitation rights in California?”

Fast Facts About CA Child Custody and Incarceration

Although there are thousands of families with an incarcerated parent, there is much confusion surrounding this issue. Here are some fast facts about the topic:

  1. Incarceration does not automatically terminate your parenting rights. This can only happen in a limited number of situations.
  2. Imprisonment in California is not automatically considered abandonment of a child as it is in a few other states.
  3. Child custody and parental rights are different issues. The other parent or a grandparent may be granted custodial care of your child while you are in jail, but this does not surrender your parental rights.
  4. Incarceration does not abrogate you from your child support obligations. Making child support payments can help prove you have not abandoned your child and take your parental responsibilities seriously.
  5. You are still entitled to be present in any hearing regarding your parental rights and the matters relating to your child while in prison.  

Child Visitation Rights for CA Inmates

A Family Court may determine that the child’s best interests are met by granting visitation rights to an incarcerated parent. If so, there will likely be stringent guidelines to ensure the child’s safety and well-being. A California Family Law Attorney like Judy L. Burger can help the inmate negotiate the best possible conditions for visiting with their child.

A new law in California takes effect on January 1, 2024, to make it easier for incarcerated parents to obtain visitation rights with their children. The Keep Families Close Act now allows incarcerated parents to request a transfer to a facility near their families. Since 2019 data from the CDCR revealed that over 75% of incarcerated persons are located over 100 miles from their homes, this legislation is a welcome boon for inmates.

According to California Department of Correction and Rehabilitation (CDCR) data from 2019, over 75% of people in prisons are incarcerated more than 100 miles away from their homes  According to CDCR data from 2019, over 75% of people in prisons are incarcerated over 100 miles away from their homes. Parents who committed crimes against their child or other serious crimes are exempted.

Moreover, the Family Dignity Act will make the visitation process for families simpler by adopting digital technology. Families will now be able to scan and upload birth certificates so they can be digitally retrieved on each visit and not have to be brought every time.

Help with Child Custody, Support, and Visitation Matters in California

Child custody, support, and visitation issues with an incarcerated parent can be difficult and many factors can impact the court’s decisions. A parent sentenced to prison, currently in prison, or about to be released from prison will need counsel and representation from a CA Family Law Attorney. Similarly, the custodial parent or guardian of the child will need advice and representation to ensure the child’s best interests are ensured.

Certified Family Law Specialist Judy L. Burger and her team understand the specific challenges relating to an incarcerated parent and their family. We can help you work out the best arrangements for your family’s welfare and happiness during any phase of the parent’s jail tenure. Contact the Law Offices of Judy L. Burger by phone or online to request a confidential consultation.

restraining order

How to Dissolve a Restraining Order in California

Often, a person may be involved in legal proceedings that can be both time-consuming and stressful. One such proceeding is getting a restraining order against someone or being served with one. While restraining orders provide legal protections for those in harm’s way, sometimes those orders may be placed against individuals who do not deserve them. In situations like these, knowing the proper steps to take to dissolve the restraining order can be challenging. This blog post will discuss dissolving a restraining order in California.

 

What is a Restraining Order in California, and How Can it be Dissolved?

 

In California, a restraining order is a legal document that prohibits an individual (the restrained party) from having any contact with another individual (the protected party) for a specified time. Restraining orders exist to provide legal protection for victims of domestic violence, stalking, or harassment. To dissolve a restraining order, you will need to consider the options that are available to you.

 

The Types of Dispositions Available for Dissolving a Restraining Order

 

There are two types of dispositions available for dissolving a restraining order. The first is a dismissal, where the protected party requests to lift the restraining order. The second is a motion to modify or dissolve, where the restrained party requests to lift the order. To succeed with either option, it is best to hire a California restraining order attorney to guide you through the process.

 

How to File an Application to Dissolve a Restraining Order

 

When dissolving a restraining order, the process may seem daunting at first. However, it is essential to know that it is possible to dissolve the order by filing an application with the court. This application must include the reasons why the restraining order should be dissolved. Once the court receives the application, it will decide based on the evidence presented.

 

How the Court Decides Whether or Not to Grant a Motion to Dismiss a Restraining Order

 

The court will consider several factors when granting a motion to dismiss a restraining order. Firstly, they will consider why the restraining order was granted in the first place. They will also consider any evidence that supports the request to modify or dissolve the order. If the evidence presented is convincing enough, the court may grant the motion to dismiss the restraining order.

 

Common Mistakes That People Make When Trying to Dissolve a Restraining Order in California

 

Due to the sensitive nature of restraining orders, it is essential to handle them with care. Unfortunately, some people may make common mistakes when dissolving a restraining order. Some of these mistakes include failing to gather enough evidence to support the request to dissolve the order or demonstrating to the court that they pose no threat to the protected party.



When dissolving a restraining order in California, it is best to hire an attorney with experience handling these cases. At the Law Offices of Judy L. Burger, we are committed to providing our clients with the legal protections they need. We understand the stress and anxiety that comes with legal proceedings, which is why we work hard to make the process as stress-free as possible for our clients. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

What Happens If One Party Wants to Keep the Family Residence?

What Happens If One Party Wants to Keep the Family Residence?

Separation and divorce present numerous challenges to both parties. One of the most complex and emotional issues is dividing property. When both spouses have an attachment to the family home, this debate can become heated and fractional. What if one party wants to keep the family residence after a divorce? Or what if both parties wish to keep it and live in it?

California Family Law Specialist Judy L. Burger is well-experienced in Property Division matters relating to divorce. She can work with various specialists to determine the best course of action and your legal rights. Her team can also represent you in property division hearings and other divorce proceedings in the Family Courts when a family residence is in question.

California Property Division Law

California law follows the doctrine of community property in that any debts or assets owned by a married couple are jointly owned (community property). Therefore, each spouse has an equal interest. In a divorce, community property should then be divided 50/50 between the spouses. However, the family home may or may not be considered community property under state law.

The home may be considered community property if:

  • The home was purchased with earnings from both spouses.
  • Both spouses obtained a mortgage for the home while married.
  • Both spouses contributed earnings to pay the mortgage and/or upkeep of the home.

The family residence may be considered separate property if:

  • One spouse already owned the home before marriage.
  • The home was gifted to one spouse before or during the marriage.
  • Only one spouse provided for the mortgage or upkeep of the home.

However, separate and community property can easily become commingled in a marriage. Over time, a married couple can acquire a community interest in the home through numerous actions and investments.

Conversely, other parties can acquire an interest in the home as well. Any mortgage lender you owe will hold an interest. If you jointly own the home with a third party, such as a family home passed down to one spouse but in another person’s name, this person has an interest and legal rights. You may have also used your home as collateral for a business loan. If so, the business in question may have an interest and rights as well.

So, Who Gets the House?

The question of who gets the family residence in a divorce is never simple. As you see above, numerous factors and scenarios can come into play. Separated or divorcing spouses have some options for settling the question:

  • Agreeing on Separate Property: The couple agrees that the home is the separate property of one spouse. This must be verified by a court order to become official.
  • Negotiating a Living Agreement: The couple can agree on who maintains ownership and lives in the house. However, any joint agreement you reach must be ordered by the court to make it official.
  • Spousal Buyout: One spouse agrees to buy out the community property interest of the other spouse. An independent appraisal is necessary and the court must agree to this arrangement.

If the couple cannot agree, the Family Court will turn to California’s property division laws to make orders. In the case of separate property, the home belongs to the spouse who owns it. When the home is declared community property, the court may order the following solutions:

  • Sell the Home: The family home is sold and the proceeds are divided equally among the parties holding an interest or according to the courts division (if any separate property interest is determined).
  • Buyout: One spouse is allowed to purchase the other’s community property interest and becomes the sole owner of the home.
  • Deferred Sale: If a couple has minor children at home, the couple may remain joint owners but allow the custodial parent to live in the home with the children. This can often make a divorce easier on younger children. After a specified time, the home is sold and the proceeds are divided.

Get Seasoned Representation for CA Property Division

Numerous factors can arise in any property division during a divorce, so you need seasoned legal representation and counsel to protect your interests. Family Law Attorney Judy L. Burger is a skilled negotiator and vigorous defender of your rights. She has the knowledge and experience in family law to handle difficult or complex property settlements on your behalf.

Contact one of our offices throughout California today to get help with difficult property division questions in a divorce.

expenses; child support

What Expenses are Considered When Calculating Child Support?

Divorce is a stressful and emotional experience, but add children to the mix, and the process becomes even more complicated. If you have children, the child support agreement is one of the most critical parts of a divorce settlement. Child support is the amount of money one parent pays the other to help cover the expenses of raising their children. The amount of child support paid is based on a calculation that considers various expenses. This blog post will cover some of the different expenses considered when calculating child support in California.

 

Overview of What is Considered When Calculating Child Support

 

When calculating child support, it is important to consider many different expenses. California law requires that both parents contribute to the support of their child, regardless of whether they are married or not. The amount of support is based on a complex formula that considers several factors, including the income of each parent, the number of children, and how much time each parent spends with the child.

 

The Cost of Healthcare and Insurance for the Child

 

One of the expenses typically included in child support calculations is the cost of healthcare and insurance for the child. The child’s health insurance premium is included in the child support calculation.

Education Expenses for the Child

 

Another factor that is considered when calculating child support is the child’s cost of education. This can include tuition fees, school supplies, uniforms, and other educational expenses. These costs are considered an add-on to the child support order.

 

Extracurricular Activities and Their Costs

 

When deciding on the amount of child support, the Court may make an order on who is to pay for the child’s extracurricular activities.  These payments are considered an add-on to the child support order.

 

Calculating Travel Expenses Between Divorcing Parents’ Homes

 

Suppose parents live far apart from each other. In that case, the costs of transporting the child from one location to another for custody exchanges are also considered when calculating child support. The transportation costs are included in the child support calculation.

 

How Are Special Needs Children Supported Financially by Both Parents?

 

For children with special needs, extra expenses are sometimes necessary. These expenses could include extra medical care, counseling, and therapies. The Court may order how these costs are to be paid by the parties.

 

Calculating child support is a complicated process that requires careful consideration of many factors. Contact our California family law attorneys if you are going through a divorce and need help navigating the child support process. At the Law Offices of Judy L. Burger, we are here to help you understand your rights and responsibilities and ensure that you and your children are taken care of. The right legal representation can make all the difference in securing the financial stability of your and your children’s future. Contact us today to get started.

Emergency Child Custody Issues in California

Emergency Child Custody Issues in California

Petitions for changes in child custody agreements can be filed with the court when circumstances change and new arrangements are needed. These requests are scheduled for the next available hearing on the family court’s calendar. However, an ex parte petition can be filed immediately when you encounter emergency child custody issues in California

Under California law, Family Code 3064 allows the court to temporarily grant an emergency change in custody without waiting on a full hearing under certain circumstances. This is a short-term solution to protect the safety and welfare of the child while more permanent arrangements are examined. Ex parte orders can influence any final custodial orders issued by the court.

When would such actions be necessary? CA Certified Family Law Specialist Judy L. Burger reviews some possible scenarios when emergency child custody issues can be handled through ex parte hearings. She can explain more and review your situation thoroughly in a confidential consultation at one of our offices.

What Justifies An Emergency Child Custody Petition?

California Family Courts typically allow at least a 15-day notice to involved parties before scheduling a hearing about child custody matters. However, when a true emergency threatens a child’s health and safety, the court can issue immediate orders to prevent harmful actions. Ex parte orders, sometimes called “emergency orders,” may be granted in select situations, including:

  • Child abuse
  • Sexual abuse
  • Neglect
  • Domestic violence
  • A parent’s physical or mental health condition
  • A parent’s arrest for drug use, drunk driving, or another serious crime
  • A sex offender in the home

Your request for an emergency child custody order must include definite evidence that such conditions exist and are a direct threat to the child. Heresy or opinions are not sufficient grounds for the court to immediately remove a child from another parent’s custody. Credible witnesses, photos, videos, text messages, or police reports are solid proof that the child is in danger and emergency orders are necessary to protect the child’s interests.

How Do I Request an Emergency Child Custody Action in CA?

​In addition to demonstrating a clear and imminent danger to the child’s welfare, you must provide several other items of information in your ex parte petition. These include the following:

  • Legal request form
  • Identity and contact information for the other parent and/or their attorneys
  • Current child custody, visitation, and support orders
  • Any previous requests or orders on this or similar matters
  • Reasons why the other parent should not be notified

Remember, you must provide sufficient evidence demonstrating the harm that could be suffered without the requested emergency custody orders. This is also a temporary solution. A formal hearing with both parents may be scheduled for a later date and other orders may be issued as a result.

It is critical that you adhere to California law in all matters relating to your child and custody matters. Emotional reactions to protect your child that violate the law or existing custody orders can complicate your case. Making decisions under stress can place you on the wrong side of the law.

Contact a California Certified Family Law Specialist to Help You Protect Your Children

Consult with CA Family Law Attorney Judy L. Burger immediately if you suspect an emergency custody action is necessary. She can act quickly to file an ex parte hearing petition and the necessary paperwork while helping you gather the required evidence to support your request. As a Certified Family Law Specialist in California, she can help you follow the law and protect your child.

Ms. Burger is not intimidated by difficult or high-conflict custody matters. She firmly believes that children must be protected from abusive, inappropriate, or other dangerous behavior and actions by parents or others. The Law Offices of Judy L. Burger will not rest until your child is safe. We will also work with you to completely resolve this matter in the best interests of your child and family.

Contact one of our eight offices in California today to discuss emergency child custody issues with a Certified Family Law Specialist who is on your side.

vacation

Can You Take Your Child on Vacation After a Divorce?

Divorce is already a stressful and complicated process, and it can be even more challenging to navigate when children are involved. One of the most common questions during a divorce is whether or not you can take your child on vacation. The answer to this question is not always clear-cut, and several factors come into play. This blog post will discuss how to divide vacation time during a divorce and how to successfully and legally take your child on vacation after a divorce.  

 

Understanding How Vacation Time is Divided During a Divorce

 

Vacation time is generally included in the parenting plan that’s decided during the divorce proceedings. This plan typically outlines how vacation time is split between parents and the specific dates each parent is given. Most family courts consider each parent’s work schedule, the child’s school calendar, the distance between the parent’s homes, and many other factors before deciding the vacation schedule. Therefore, reviewing these details carefully is essential.

 

Discussing Vacation Plans With Your Ex-Spouse Beforehand

 

If you have not had a Court make an order regarding vacation time with your children, communicating effectively with your ex-spouse is crucial to ensure your vacation plans align with your parenting plan. Discuss your proposed vacation plans with your ex-partner and make sure they approve them. It’s best to communicate with them about the dates of the vacation, transportation arrangements, the destination, and any other plans or activities you have in mind so that they feel informed and involved. Doing so will help avoid potential conflicts and make the vacation experience more enjoyable for everyone involved.  Agreements made between the parties must be made into a written stipulation and sent to the Court to become a Court order.  If you fail to successfully complete these steps you may have no recourse if the other party refuses to abide by your vacation agreement.  It is always best to engage a family law attorney to prepare the stipulation and ensure the Court has made the agreement into a Court order. 

 

Tips for Planning a Successful Vacation After Your Divorce

 

Planning a successful vacation after a divorce can be challenging. Below are some tips that will help you plan a successful vacation:

 

  1. Choose a location that appeals to your child’s interests and hobbies.
  2. Give your child a sense of control by letting them pick some of the activities or meals.
  3. Keep an open line of communication with your child and listen to their concerns.
  4. Stick to your parenting plan as much as possible.
  5. Create a travel itinerary with your child so they feel involved.

 

Effects of Taking Your Child on Vacation Without Permission from the Other Parent

 

Taking your child on vacation without permission from the other parent can result in legal complications. It could violate the parenting plan, and your ex-partner could go to family court to change the terms of the agreement or hold you in contempt for violating the parenting plan Court order.

 

When to Seek Legal Guidance Regarding Vacations

 

If you’re planning a vacation with your child and have concerns about your ex-partner’s reaction or are unsure about the legality of it, you should seek legal guidance. A family law attorney will review your parenting plan and advise you on planning a vacation that meets the legal requirements without violating the existing agreement.

 

At the Law Offices of Judy L. Burger, our experienced family law attorneys are experts in California divorce and family law and can guide you on family law matters ranging from divorce, child custody, and visitation agreements to domestic violence. We provide personalized attention and advice to our clients and work towards achieving their goals. Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and we’ll gladly assist you in any family law matter.