

Why Choose The Nixon Law Practice?
Nixon Law is dedicated to YOUR best interests, led by Zara Nixon and a trusted team committed to achieving the results you need. Nixon Law is comprised of three categories of core values. Nixon law promises to give these values to you, and in turn we expect the same of our clients.
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Honesty is at the heart of everything we do. We uphold a duty of loyalty and confidentiality to every client, ensuring all communication, from consultations to case meetings, remains protected. Our motto says it all: Honesty is Queen.
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Solutions aren’t always straightforward. Whether through the legal system, negotiation, or mediation, we embrace creativity and adaptability to find the best path forward.
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We understand that the cases we handle can be tough and messy, but we’re here to back you every step of the way, listening to your needs and fighting for your goals. Even with the best representation, perseverance is key.

Types of Child Custody in California
Child custody laws in California can be complex. The court’s primary goal is to ensure that the child’s best interests are met, including providing a safe, stable, and nurturing environment.
California recognizes the following two types of child custody:
- Legal custody: This is the right to make important decisions about your child’s health, welfare, and education. Legal custody may be awarded to one parent (known as sole legal custody) or both parents (known as joint legal custody).
- Physical custody: This is the right of a parent to live with their child. Physical custody may be awarded to one parent (known as sole physical custody) or both parents (known as joint physical custody). Joint physical custody doesn’t need to be equal time-sharing if the current schedule works for both parents and their child.
Courts are expected to give joint legal custody as default, given that cooperation between the parents is encouraged when it comes to making these decisions. However, if one parent has a history of domestic violence, abuse, or another criminal activity, the court may award sole physical and legal custody to the more supportive parent. In addition, the court can also provide supervised visitation or their parental rights based on these factors.
To determine the details of the child custody agreement, courts consider the following factors:
- The relationship each parent has with the child – including the ability to share a relationship with the other
- Ability of the parents to provide for the child’s health, welfare, and safety
- The child’s age, as well as their ties to their community and education
- Past abuse by one parent against the child, sibling(s), or other parent
- Any history of substance abuse
Navigating these laws on your own can be overwhelming. That’s why we at The Nixon Law Practice are here—to provide clarity, strategy, and unwavering support through every step of the process.

Proven Results, Real Impact
The Voice Within The Void
Explore our case results to see how Nixon Law has delivered justice and resolution for clients in family law, personal injury, and domestic disputes. Your success is our mission.
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Custody Dispute Victory Client now enjoys a stable custody arrangement.
A mother of two sought Nixon Law's help during a contentious custody battle.

How We Approach Your Child Custody Case
Every family’s situation is unique, and at The Nixon Law Practice, we customize our approach to match your specific circumstances and goals. When you work with us, you’ll find a team that listens to your concerns and crafts a strategy designed to secure the best possible outcome for you and your child.
Here’s how we can help:
- Filing and responding to custody petitions: Whether initiating a case or responding to one, we’ll make sure every detail is handled correctly.
- Mediation representation: Many custody disputes are resolved through mediation. We’ll advocate for you and guide discussions toward an amicable resolution.
- Court representation: If litigation is necessary, we’ll fight passionately to present your case in court.
- Custody modifications: Life changes, and so can custody agreements. We’ll assist in modifying arrangements when circumstances warrant a change.
- Enforcement of custody orders: If the other party isn’t honoring a court order, we’ll help you take legal action to protect your rights.
- Emergency custody orders: In urgent situations involving safety concerns, we’ll act swiftly to secure temporary custody.
Our goal is to minimize conflict and prioritize the well-being of your children, all while protecting your rights as a parent. If things start to get heated, we’ll be your voice of reason and help you remain focused on the big picture.
If you are ready to discuss your case with a child custody attorney in Sacramento, contact The Nixon Law Practice today. Call us at (916) 957-5619, or reach out online to schedule a consultation.

Whether you need legal guidance or a fierce advocate by your side, we’re here to help. Contact us to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward resolution and justice.