Recent Blog Posts

Defining Parental Abduction: Know Your Rights

San Fernando Valley Family Attorney — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 18:19:00 GMT

When most people think of kidnapping, they imagine a stranger; what most people do not imagine is the idea of a parent with their child. Per California Penal Code §278, however, it is considered to be child abduction for someone to take a child, entice them away or even conceal them with the willful and knowing intentions of keeping them from their legal custodian. This is not a light offense and is instead met with penalties that include a monetary fine of $1,000 and / imprisonment for a year in a county jail. It can also result in incarceration in state prison for two, three or four years and / or a fine of $10,000 depending on the circumstances.

Just this month, a Mason County, MI man was arrested for parental kidnapping after taking four-year-old son and two-year-old daughter. The defendant, initials M.A.M., was 52-years-old and had been suspected after failing to show up at a custody hearing where it was believed he could potentially lost custody. He then allegedly fled with his children to Florida and has since been detained and arrested. Unfortunately, stories such as this are not uncommon; in fact, statistics show that kidnapping in America is predominantly done by family members as opposed to non-relatives.

It, however, can be a confusing area of the law and many parents are unsure of where their rights lay. For example, if there is not a Court-ordered custody plan, then what? Many people are unaware that in the absence of a custody arrangement that either parent could be charged with parental kidnapping should they take their child or be accused of concealing them from the other parent. This then becomes a much larger issue of visitation rights violations and can even become a federal offense should it cross state borders.

For those who are struggling with custody issues or who are facing a divorce and recognizing the upcoming custody battles, it is important to get the involvement of a knowledgeable San Fernando Valley family lawyer. The law is complex and without the legal assistance of an experienced attorney, you can find yourself between a rock and a hard place. It is for this reason that it is so important to get the involvement of our team here at Cutter & Lax. We know that family law is an emotionally-charged area of the law that can often bleed into many different areas of the legal spectrum – including criminal law. We have the experience and resources you need regardless of the situation you find yourself. Contact Cutter & Lax today to learn more about how we can help you or email us directly for your free case evaluation.

Hiring A Family Attorney

Santa Clarita Divorce Lawyer — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 17:59:00 GMT

Some of the most complex and emotionally stressful legal situations in which a person can become involved are family law matters such as divorce, child custody, child support, alimony, and other family law issues. If you are involved in these types of matters it is important to find an attorney with the experience and knowledge to help you find the best solution possible for your case.

While many divorce cases might end up in court and result in prolonged legal battles over small matters, these types of results are not always necessary. In fact, it is likely possible that they can be avoided if the parties are willing to collaborate on a solution to their needs throughout the process. With the help and guidance of a skilled attorney it is not only possible that you can come to a peaceful resolution, but that you can avoid a lengthy and expensive trial situation.

If you are involved in a family law matter such as a divorce or any situation in which a child's future is in question, contact a San Fernando Valley divorce attorney at our firm today. We can evaluate your case and inform you of your options and how we can help you pursue your goals for the case.

Contact a Santa Clarita divorce lawyer at our office today to schedule a consultation!

San Fernando Valley Divorce Blog

Cutter & Lax — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 22:25:00 GMT

We are pleased to announce our new San Fernando Valley Divorce Blog.

We believe our intense focus on family law gives us an edge in the cases we take on. Founding attorney Nelson Cutter and his skilled legal team are able to continuously build their knowledge of divorce and family law matters in the San Fernando & Santa Clarita Valley in particular and therefore provide more effective legal counsel.

Dealing with a family law matter in Agoura Hills, Encino, Burbank, Glendale, Woodland Hills, Sherman Oaks or Van Nuys? Contact a San Fernando & Santa Clarita Valley divorce attorney at our firm today for your free case evaluation.