WHAT IF I'VE TRIED EVERYTHING, AND I STILL HAVE PROBLEMS?
Sometimes all attempts made by individuals to enforce their court order themselves are to no avail. The Child Abduction Unit (CAU) is mandated by state law to enforce child custody/visitation orders when the parties involved cannot. The District Attorney does not represent private individuals in these matters. Rather we act on behalf of the Superior Court in enforcing child custody and visitation orders.

The CAU does not provide legal advice, but can provide information and referrals to possible remedies. It should be noted the violation of a court order must demonstrate criminal intent to withhold or conceal the child from a party with rights of custody before a crime is committed.

The Child Abduction Unit attempts to resolve the custody and visitation issues without litigation. This is done in a variety of ways, including but not limited to phone calls, letters and personal contacts. Since each case is unique, our approach will differ according to the demands of your case. The CAU could also file a civil contempt or other action to bring the parties to Court. In some cases, we may criminally prosecute the other party.

At no time is the District Attorney representing you as an individual. You are a victim/witness. The District Attorney acts on behalf of the People of the State of California and/or the Superior Court. Since we do not represent you, there is no attorney-client relationship. Therefore, any information you provide the District Attorney's Child Abduction Unit is not confidential and may be subject to disclosure pursuant to court rules or District Attorney's Policy.

Your address and telephone number will not be released to the other parent without your authorization. The other party's address will not be released to you without his or her authorization.