How to Modify a Custody Order in California
Custody orders aren’t set in stone. When circumstances change, either parent can petition the court to modify the custody arrangement. When Can You Modify? You need a material change in circumstances since the last order. Common qualifying changes: ✅ Parent relocating (moving away) ✅ Child’s needs have changed (age, school, medical) ✅ Parent’s work schedule […]
Types of Child Custody in California Explained
Understanding custody terminology is essential for any parent going through a California divorce or custody case. Here’s a clear explanation of each type. Legal Custody vs. Physical Custody These are two separate things, and you can have different arrangements for each. Legal Custody Who makes major decisions about the child’s: – Education (which school, special education) […]
How Is Child Support Enforced in California?
Not paying court-ordered child support has serious consequences in California. Here’s what happens and what you can do. Enforcement Methods 1. Income Withholding Order (Wage Garnishment) The most common enforcement method. The court orders the paying parent’s employer to deduct child support directly from their paycheck. – Happens automatically with most child support orders – […]
How to Modify Child Support in California (Step-by-Step)
Life changes, and when it does, your child support order may need to change too. California allows either parent to request a modification when circumstances have changed significantly. When Can You Modify? You can petition for modification when there’s been a material change in circumstances since the last order. Common qualifying changes include: For Reducing […]
California Child Support Calculator: How Support Is Calculated (2026)
California uses a mathematical formula to calculate child support — it’s not up to the judge’s discretion in most cases. Here’s how the guideline formula works. The Guideline Formula California Family Code § 4055 sets the formula: CS = K [HN – (H%)(TN)] Where: – CS = Child support amount – K = A factor […]
Does Expungement Restore Gun Rights in California?
This is one of the most common questions we get — and the answer is: it depends on the type of conviction. Expungement alone does NOT always restore gun rights. Here’s the full picture. When Expungement DOES Restore Gun Rights Misdemeanor Convictions With 10-Year Prohibition If your firearm prohibition is from a qualifying misdemeanor (assault, […]
Misdemeanor vs. Felony Expungement in California: Key Differences
The expungement process differs significantly depending on whether your conviction is a misdemeanor or felony. Here’s a side-by-side comparison. Side-by-Side Comparison Factor Misdemeanor Felony Eligible? Almost always Only “wobblers” (crimes that can be misdemeanors) Extra step needed? No Yes — PC 17(b) reduction first Probation requirement Must complete Must complete Court hearing Often waived Usually […]
California Expungement Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s exactly how to clear your California criminal record through expungement (PC 1203.4), from start to finish. Step 1: Get Your Criminal Record Before you can petition for expungement, you need to know exactly what’s on your record. How to get your record: – Live Scan fingerprinting — Submit a Request for Live Scan Service […]
How Much Does Expungement Cost in California? (2026 Prices)
A clean record can mean better jobs, housing, and opportunities. Here’s exactly what expungement costs in California in 2026. Court Filing Fees Filing Cost PC 1203.4 petition (expungement) $120–$150 PC 17(b) motion (felony reduction to misdemeanor) $120–$150 PC 1203.3 (early termination of probation) $0–$120 Fee waiver (if eligible) $0 Total Cost by Path Path Filing […]
How to Get a Restraining Order in Los Angeles (Step-by-Step)
If someone is threatening, harassing, or hurting you, a restraining order is a legal tool that can protect you. Los Angeles County courts take these matters seriously and can issue temporary protection the same day you file. Here’s exactly how the process works. Step 1: Determine Which Type You Need Type Use When Forms Domestic […]