Child Custody Attorney San Diego

Protecting Your Parental Rights and Your Child’s Future

Few legal issues are more emotional or important than child custody. At the Law Offices of Veronica M. Aguilar, we know how deeply these cases affect your life and your family. With over 34 years of experience as a San Diego family law attorney, Veronica is here to help you navigate custody disputes with clarity, compassion, and the strong legal advocacy you deserve.

California’s Custody Laws: What You Need to Know

California courts prioritize the best interests of the child in all custody decisions. This means considering factors such as:

  • The child’s health, safety, and welfare

  • Each parent’s ability to provide a stable environment

  • Emotional bonds between the child and each parent

  • Any history of domestic violence or substance abuse

  • The child’s preference (in some cases)

Our job is to help you present a clear, organized case that reflects your parenting strengths and protects your relationship with your child.

Types of Custody in California

Legal Custody

Legal custody refers to the right to make important decisions about your child’s health, education, and welfare. Courts often award joint legal custody, but sole legal custody may be granted in certain situations.


Physical Custody

Physical custody determines where the child lives and which parent provides day-to-day care. This may also be joint or sole, depending on the circumstances and the court’s assessment of the child’s best interests.

Veronica will help you understand your rights and pursue the custody arrangement that best suits your child’s needs.

Schedule A Consultation

Every family is different, and we tailor our approach to the unique circumstances of your case. We regularly assist clients with:

  • Contested custody battles during divorce

  • Emergency custody hearings

  • Modifications to existing custody orders

  • Parenting plan creation and enforcement

  • Visitation disputes

  • Move-away requests and parental relocation cases

If you’re unsure where to start, Veronica will walk you through your options and help you choose a strategy that aligns with your goals.
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Custody Modifications & Enforcement

Life changes — and so can custody agreements. If a significant change has occurred (relocation, job change, safety concerns, etc.), you may be eligible for a modification. We also assist clients in enforcing custody orders when the other parent fails to comply.


Why Clients Trust Veronica M. Aguilar

Veronica is not only a skilled negotiator and trial attorney — she’s a parent and a trusted advocate who understands how deeply these cases affect your life. Clients appreciate her calm guidance, honest communication, and fierce commitment to protecting both their parental rights and their children’s well-being.


“Veronica helped me stay focused when I was overwhelmed with fear of losing time with my kids. She was clear, strong, and never let me feel like I was alone.”

— Abby E., San Diego



Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can my child choose which parent to live with?

    California courts may consider the child’s preference, especially if they are age 14 or older, but it is only one of many factors the court evaluates.

  • Do mothers have more custody rights than fathers?

    No. California law does not favor one parent over the other. Both parents have equal rights to custody unless there are specific circumstances that suggest otherwise.

  • What if the other parent isn’t following the custody order?

    You can file for enforcement, and Veronica can help you take the proper legal steps to ensure compliance.