A calm, clear path through a stressful day
If you’re headed to a child custody hearing in Placerville, you’re likely worried about what will happen and how it will affect your family. We guide parents through El Dorado County custody cases every week, explaining the process step-by-step so you can focus on your children and present your story clearly.
Before the hearing: mediation and preparation
In many California courts, parents attend mediation with Family Court Services before the judge makes orders. In El Dorado County, you’ll typically meet with a court mediator to try to reach a parenting plan. Whether you settle or proceed to a hearing, preparation matters. We help clients assemble:
- A concise parenting proposal (weekly schedule, exchanges, holidays, summer)
- A calendar showing who has cared for the child and when
- School and activity info (teachers, report cards, therapy notes where appropriate)
- A log of communication and any incidents relevant to safety or reliability
What to bring to court
Bring copies (not originals) of key documents, organized by topic. Dress neatly, arrive early to find parking near Historic Main Street, and allow time for courthouse security. We’ll meet you beforehand to review talking points and ease nerves.
Inside the courtroom: what actually happens
Cases are usually called in short calendars. The judge will confirm what’s at issue (legal custody, physical custody, parenting time), review any mediation outcome, and hear brief arguments. If testimony is required, you may be sworn in. We keep your presentation focused on your child’s needs—school stability, health care, transportation, and routines—not on past relationship disputes.
How judges decide: “best interests” in California
Courts must center the child’s health, safety, and welfare. Common factors include:
- Each parent’s ability to meet day-to-day needs and maintain stability
- A track record of supporting the child’s relationship with the other parent
- Any history of domestic violence, substance misuse, or safety concerns
- School, community, and sibling ties in Placerville, Cameron Park, Shingle Springs, and surrounding neighborhoods
- A child’s preference if mature enough (often considered at 14+)
After the hearing: orders and next steps
Expect temporary or final orders—sometimes the judge will ask us to prepare a proposed order reflecting the ruling. Follow orders precisely. If something isn’t working (e.g., exchanges on Highway 50 conflict with school pickup), we can seek modifications.
Local pointers for Placerville parents
Plan exchanges at predictable, low-conflict locations (school, daycare, or well-lit public spots on Main Street). For families splitting time between the foothills and Sacramento, we often propose travel windows that respect commute and weather realities.
When to call us
If you have a hearing scheduled or just got served with papers, call. Early strategy—especially for mediation—can improve outcomes and reduce conflict.
