Hi, I'm trained and experienced in family law, and I would love to help you through your current situation.

You can file for custody.

If the court decides that you do not have jurisdiction, you will then have to file in Florida.

There's no way to say whether the court will require that you have in-state residency to establish your right to custody in California.

If it refuses you to file on that basis, you can thereafter file in Florida.

If that happens, you can motion to change venue after you've established in-state residency (6 months later).

Does that make sense?

Anyone can file. The worst that will happen is they will deny you jurisdiction, and you will have to then file in Florida.

If the court denies you jurisdiction in California.

... you can appear by phone if that happens though.

Just so you know, that's not preferred though.

... it looks bad.

No, not if you have good reason to do so.

I agree.

There's no way to say for sure, as each judge is different.

But, I'm of the same opinion.

I understand.

I'm sorry. That sounds like a difficult situation.

Usually, there are about 4 (plus mediation sometimes).

It starts with an initial appearance and ends with trial.

Then, they'll be 1-2 status conferences.

Plus, the court will usually order mediation at one of the status conferences.

You can appear by phone but it might look bad.

I've been at trial in which the opposing side appeared by phone, and it looks pretty unprofessional.

If you're in California, that's a pretty good reason though.

You are most welcome.

Please rate me, so I'll be compensated for my work.

12.50

Yes, ma'm.

You are most welcome.

It's my pleasure.