Parental Alienation
Backed by 100+ Years' Experience
When Parental Rights Are Stripped Away
California family courts are supportive of actions that improve personal
and financial stability for children, and stepparent adoption often fits
these criteria very well. If you have married or remarried and want to
pursue a stepparent adoption, our Orange County law firm is an excellent
resource for the guidance and representation you will need.
Skilled Attorneys For Stepparent Adoptions And Termination Of Parental Rights
At the Burch Shepard Family Law Group, you will work
with attorneys whose sole professional focus is California family law.
We can assist you with all aspects of a stepparent adoption, whether you
anticipate that this action will be accepted or contested by your child's
biological parent.
Our experience and capabilities cover:
Helping clients obtain formal, legally recognized consent from a biological
parent who is uninvolved and nonsupportive — the most direct way
to clear the path for a successful stepparent adoption.
Pursuing a court-ordered termination of parental rights if a biological
parent has failed to pay required child support for two years or longer.
Helping couples understand and successfully complete family investigations
and custody evaluations conducted by the California Department of Social Services.
Introducing all favorable evidence that the court may consider in your
case, such as the wishes and consent of a child over 12 years old.
Persuasive Negotiators And Proven Trial Lawyers Who Will Stand Up For You
As in all other matters of parents' rights and other
family law challenges we handle, our lawyers strive for negotiated resolution and
efficiency in stepparent adoptions. However, we are trial-proven litigators
prepared to go the distance for you if your case calls for aggressive
action to achieve your goals.
We have in-depth familiarity with the procedures and officials in courts
throughout Orange County and elsewhere in Southern California. Our experience
across the spectrum of paternity claims, child support enforcement actions
and other relevant areas may be important assets for you.
“If you are looking for a law firm that is no only highly competent but also deeply compassionate and committed to your case, I cannot recommend them highly enough.”
A few years ago i was going through one of the most difficult periods of my life. I was in the middle of a highly contentious custody dispute in which I had lost custody of my daughter. I was overwhelmed, discouraged, and unsure of where to to next. I was fortunate enough to have met Courtney Shepard. From the very beginning, working with Courtney was a completely different experience from any other law firm I had encountered. After previously working with, and ultimately dismissing, two other attorneys, i knew right away that this team stood apart. Courtney took the time to truly understand my case in depth an, just as importantly, to listen to me. I never once felt like just another client. Her team, Shawna and Paul, were equally exceptional, supportive, attentive and genuinely caring throughout the entire process. Over the course of two years of court hearings and filings, they stood by me every step of the way with professionalism, compassion, and dedication. Today I am incredibly grateful to say that I now have joint legal custody of my daughter , an she is one again part of my life an we couldn't be happier. Courtney Shepard and the entire team at Burch Shepard Law Group helped me achieve something I once feared was out of reach. I am eternally grateful to them. If you are looking for a law firm that is no only highly competent but also deeply compassionate and committed to your case, I cannot recommend them highly enough.
Former Client
“Thank you for all of your guidance and support through this journey!”
I just wanted to send you a HUGE thank you for all of your support through this process. I am thrilled with the outcome today and so relieved that this is coming to a close. Thank you for all of your guidance and support through this journey.
Former Client
“I would not hesitate to recommend Courtney Shepard and her team to anyone in need of quality representation in their divorce.”
“They made the divorce process so much less stressful than it could have been. I would not hesitate to recommend Courtney Shepard and her team to anyone in need of quality representation in their divorce.”
Former Client
“A brilliantly educated pit bull”
“True brilliance in action is a site to behold. At this point I am comfortable with everything she was able to help me with, and I know that she will be the first call I make, if I have any other future issues that require the courts intervention.”
Former Client
“THANK YOU ALL FOR EVERYTHING.”
I am thankful for a attorney Robert, for his wonderful representation. His professionalism, and the way he carries himself with so much authority and knowledge is making this process run Smoothly. The delay in the process has given my children and I time, space, peace of mind and the healing we needed so much, thank you. God knows the right timing and the right results and He sends us the right persons to work things out. You are all a team of wonderful people. Thank you.
Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 949-565-4158 today!
Can Burch Shepard Family Law Group handle complex custody disputes in Orange County?
Yes, Burch Shepard Family Law Group has extensive experience in handling a wide range of complex custody disputes in Orange County. Our attorneys are equipped to manage cases that may require in-depth investigations, psychological evaluations, and court trials to protect your legal rights and your child's best interests, ensuring that the outcome is fair and sustainable.
What is the approach of Orange County courts towards joint legal custody?
Orange County courts generally favor joint legal custody, which means that both parents share the responsibility for making significant decisions about their child's education, health care, and religious upbringing. However, in cases involving domestic violence or parental neglect, the court may decide that sole legal custody to one parent is in the child's best interests.
Why should I choose Burch Shepard Family Law Group for my child custody case in Newport Beach?
Choosing Burch Shepard Family Law Group for your child custody case in Newport Beach means you'll be working with a team that understands the complexities of family law. Our attorneys are committed to providing compassionate and dedicated legal representation, ensuring that your rights are protected and your child's welfare is prioritized. With our experience and knowledge of local family law, we are well-equipped to navigate the challenges of custody negotiations and litigation.
What factors do courts consider when determining visitation rights in Newport Beach?
Courts in Newport Beach consider several factors when determining visitation rights, including the child's age, the emotional bond between the child and each parent, the parents' ability to provide a safe environment, and any history of domestic violence or substance abuse.
Can visitation agreements be modified after they are established?
Yes, visitation agreements can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a parent's relocation, changes in work schedules, or concerns about the child's well-being.
What should I do if my ex-spouse is not adhering to the visitation schedule?
If your ex-spouse is not adhering to the visitation schedule, you should first try to communicate with them to resolve the issue. If that doesn't work, you may need to document the violations and seek legal advice to explore options for enforcement.
Are there resources available in Newport Beach for parents dealing with visitation issues?
Yes, there are several resources available, including mediation services through the Orange County Family Court Services, local parenting classes, and support groups that can help parents navigate visitation challenges.
How does the court handle visitation in cases of parental conflict?
In cases of high parental conflict, the court may appoint a mediator or a guardian ad litem to represent the child's best interests. The court may also impose specific visitation terms to minimize conflict and protect the child's well-being.
