Legal Question in Family Law in California

child custody.

hi the father lives in arizona. I left him because he was a meth user. I had no idea how bad he was and thought he was sober now that we had a baby coming. He is angry and has done things out of anger towards me. the child was born 3 months ago in california and the father resides in arizona. what is the custody law on this? I have tried numerous times to talk to him so we can at least be friendly and come to an agreement. He wants no less than half custody. He claims to be sober now and I dont believe him. He even called Cps on me with these allegations on me! He is a nightmare. I explained how important it is that we settle whatever and speak. The baby will witness the anymosity and feel the stress. I dont want to argue or be treated like garbage. Fact is we have to cross paths and why not be pleasant? he says hes going to court to file tomorrow for half. He says I will not be allowed to call to check on baby and if He feels like answering when he has the baby dont expect him to be nice. Please help. we are not married. Hes on the certificate of birth. What are the rules laws? He has not paid any support and claims hes broke. He owns a business but hasnt paid taxes so no proof of his income.


Asked on 8/20/08, 2:31 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

PATRICK MCCRARY PATRICK MCCRARY

Re: child custody.

I would suggest that you retain a child custody attorney immediately. Since the child was born in California, the issue of custody needs to be determined in California. Arizona does not have jurisdiction on the issue of custody. However, both Arizona and California have jurisdiction over the issue of paternity (entering a judgment that states who the father of the child is) and it sounds like only Arizona will have jurisdiction over the issue of child support. It is complex and you will need an attorney. Good Luck, Pat McCrary

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Answered on 8/20/08, 10:28 am


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