Asset Protection, Corporate, and Family Law
Can I speak to you over the phone and ask specific questions pertaining to my situation?
Yes. Call my office or Zoom or Skype me if you would prefer. Remember, to utilize Skype you must email me and arrange a time to do so.
What if I prefer to meet in person? Do I need to retain the attorney before I get to talk to one?
Our consultations are free for the first hour. After the hour we can discuss pricing to continue if necessary.
Can I represent myself without a family law attorney?
This is allowed, but not recommended. Unless you have absolutely nothing to lose, make sure to consult an attorney and assess for yourself if going it alone is a prudent choice.
How long does it take to get a Divorce in California?
The soonest a married person can become single in the state of California is 6 months from the date process is served. However, it can take much longer if the matter is contentious. If this is the case, you may have the opportunity to bifurcate (separate) the action and get your marital status terminated while continuing your divorce action in regards to all the other matters. To complete the remaining issues you will need to settle out of court or litigate the issues at trial and this can take months or even years. We know this process is very difficult on you and, therefore, we make it our goal to finish cases promptly.
How much does is this going to cost?
This is the most difficult question to answer. I tell clients that if you don't disagree on anything you will never see the inside of a courtroom. This will obviously limit costs. The answer to this question is a function of the facts in the case, the severity of the dispute, and the attorney that is hired by the opposing party. I tell clients that, unfortunately, I cannot control the other side. Therefore, the short answer is, it depends....
May I, should I, or do I have to move out of my home?
The answer is NO, unless ordered by the court or determined as a sound strategy after consulting an attorney. Usually moving out is a bad plan. Please call me or any other attorney prior to making such a move.
Can he/she move away with the kids?
It is possible to move outside the county or even the state with the children if permission is granted from the other spouse or a court Order is obtained. This area of law has seen significant changes in recent years and it is becoming apparent to all involved that relocating children is rarely, if ever, in the best interests of the children. If you find yourself on either side of this issue, do not wait. Hire an attorney immediately.
How is Child Support calculated in the State of California?
Quite simply there is a program utilized by the Courts to set this amount. Generally, the factors include how much each party makes and how much time each party spends with the child/children.
What if the child is not mine?
Immediately contact an attorney. You will need to file documentation requesting a paternity test as soon as you can. The law can penalize persons who wait to challenge whether a father is the biological parent of a child. Since child support can quickly become a problem do not wait to take action.