Child Custody “A law firm is only as good as its ability to understand and respond to the individual needs of its clients. The Gorski Firm provides cost effective and high-quality counsel to individuals and businesses and provides our clients with the same resources as large firms, without sacrificing personal attention.”
- Vincent A. Gorski, Founder

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Child Custody Attorney in Bakersfield, CA

Legal & Physical Custody Representation in Kern County

California law divides child custody into two categories: legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody addresses who makes major decisions about a child's education, healthcare, and general welfare. Physical custody determines where a child lives and how parenting time gets allocated between households.

The Gorski Firm represents parents throughout Bakersfield and Kern County in custody matters ranging from initial orders during divorce proceedings to modifications of existing arrangements. We can help you build a persuasive case for the custody structure that serves your child's best interest while protecting your parental relationship.

Call (661) 768-1441 or contact us online to speak with a Bakersfield child custody attorney who puts your child's needs first.

Factors Courts Consider in Custody Decisions

California Family Code Section 3011 establishes the criteria judges evaluate when determining custody.

The court examines each parent's ability to provide for the child's health, safety, and emotional needs. Judges assess the quality of the emotional bond between the child and each parent, considering the child's age, health, and connections to home, school, and community.

Evidence of domestic violence carries significant weight in custody determinations, as does any history of substance abuse that impairs parenting ability. The court scrutinizes each parent's willingness to support the child's relationship with the other parent. Parents who attempt to alienate children from the other parent or who interfere with court-ordered visitation undermine their own custody position.

Children age 14 and older may address the court regarding their custody preferences. However, judges retain discretion to make different determinations based on the child's best interest.

We can help you gather and present compelling evidence that demonstrates your commitment to your child's well-being and your capacity to meet their needs. Our team can also prepare you for testimony and guide you on how to address the court's specific concerns.

Common Child Custody Arrangements

Joint legal custody means both parents share decision-making authority over major issues such as medical care, education, and religious upbringing. This arrangement remains the preferred option unless evidence shows it would harm the child. Sole legal custody grants one parent exclusive authority when parents cannot communicate productively or when a history of domestic violence makes joint decisions inappropriate.

Physical custody determines where children live and how time gets divided between parents. Joint physical custody means the child spends substantial time with both parents through various schedules, including alternating weeks or a primary residence with regular overnight visits.

Our team can negotiate a timeshare arrangement that fits your family's needs and work schedule while demonstrating to the court why your proposed arrangement serves your child's best interest.

Modifications & Enforcement

Custody orders may be revised when meaningful changes occur, including relocation, shifts in a parent's living situation, evolving needs as children grow, or indications that a parent is unable to provide appropriate care. Courts are generally cautious about disturbing a reliable arrangement without a strong reason to do so.

Violations arise when a parent disregards the established timeshare schedule or makes independent decisions that conflict with joint legal custody requirements.

We can assist you in gathering evidence of new developments or violations and filing the necessary motions to safeguard your parental rights. Our team can also appear on your behalf at modification hearings and present supporting documentation for the changes you seek.

Need to modify an existing custody order or enforce your parental rights? Call (661) 768-1441 or contact us online. A Bakersfield child custody lawyer can evaluate your situation and help you take appropriate legal action.

Our Client Testimonials

We are dedicated to our clients, the community, and public service. We are based in Bakersfield, California and represent clients with routine and complex family law and bankruptcy matters throughout the state.

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Thank you to the Gorski firm for helping me navigate a heartbreaking time.
“I was awarded sole and physical custody, more than I could’ve imagined and I am truly thankful for their hard work.”

- Abby A.
I do appreciate Mr. Gorski from the bottom of my heart for his incredible work on my case.
“He took on my case at the very last minute, thoroughly reviewed all the details in an impressively short time, and still managed to win it. His dedication, expertise, and confidence truly made a difference.”

- Former Client
I can honestly say that Mr Gorski, is a truly gifted attorney.
“His compassion & understanding with his expertise in family law are truly amazing. I have had the pleasure of using Mr Gorski in my past and would highly recommend him.”

- Rick H.
I am very thankful for Mr. Gorski.
“He was very helpful and knowledgeable of my situation and what needed to be done. He was very professional and timely. And if for whatever reason he was unavailable Jaqueline was able to assist me in a timely manner. I could never thank them enough.”

- Alisha G.
Thank you Mr. Gorski for helping my brother in Mojave court with his DV case.
“You were wise and knew exactly what was needed to win this case. Our family truly appreciates you. Thank you and we'll done.”

- Wendy A.
Mr. Gorksi facilitated an excellent outcome for my ongoing case.
“Everything I hoped for and more was achieved, and I am so thankful. I appreciate the hard work he put in and the support from his staff through the whole process. I would proudly recommend him and his firm. God Bless.”

- Jaswinder K.
I do appreciate Mr. Gorski from the bottom of my heart for his incredible work on my case.
“He took on my case at the very last minute, thoroughly reviewed all the details in an impressively short time, and still managed to win it. His dedication, expertise, and confidence truly made a difference.”

- Former Client
We contacted The Gorski Firm to handle my problem.
“To my surprise, they answered my email within a few minutes. Provided me with answers that I needed. Everything was easy as I have anticipated.”

- Vivian H.
Vincent Gorski was a pleasure to work with.
“He was prompt, professional, and made me feel at ease during what is often a very difficult and uncomfortable divorce process. I highly recommend him.”

- Billie H.

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1820 Westwind Dr.
Bakersfield, CA 93301

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