The Divorce Process in California Explained
A PRIMER ON THE DIVORCE PROCESS IN CALIFORNIA Just like any lawsuit, a divorce case has a beginning. a middle and an end. 1. The Beginning In California a divorce case begins with a summons and petition of divorce and a response to the petition. In cases with minor children, certain data such as the age, birthdate, and residence of… Read More »
Learn How the Parents Can Work together to End Court Ordered Child Support in California
I am often asked questions similar to the following. Question: How can the custodial parent and I close our child support order? My children’s mother and I have come to an agreement regarding child support and visitation. She will be going to the DCSS (the child support dept). to stop its involvement, but it is… Read More »
Los Angeles Family Law Courts No Longer Have Court Reporters
Change in Rules Regarding Court Reporters Effective November 14, 2022 the Los Angeles Superior Court Family Law Departments will amend its policies regarding the availability of official court reporters. Official court reporters are not statutorily required to be provided in unlimited civil, family law, or probate matters, and existing court reporter coverage will end November 14… Read More »
Do I Need a Lawyer to File for Divorce in California
I am often asked: “Do I need a lawyer to file for divorce in Los Angeles California? Do I need a lawyer to file for divorce in Orange County, Ventura, San Bernardino? The answer is: It depends. After more than 30 years of family law practice I am confident that many people can handle their… Read More »
The Rules About Serving and Filing Responses to Requests for Orders in Family Law Courts can be Confusing. Here is a Primer on What to Do and When to Do It.
The questions I was asked: My ex hired a lawyer and their lawyer served me with a request to modify custody by mail at the wrong address, but I was notified and received the papers. Do I have to serve a copy of my response to the request before I file it? Who do I… Read More »
Small Business Owners Must Justify Their Business Deductions To Claim Reduction of Income Available for Child Support
In 2020 the California Appellate court held that a trial court erred by allowing depreciation deductions taken on equipment and other assets used in self-employed husband’s businesses (as listed on his income tax returns) to reduce amount of income available for child support. The court stated the burden was not on the wife to show… Read More »
15 Questions You Should Ask Potential Divorce Lawyers Before Hiring
Asking questions about an attorney’s qualifications and skills can be embarrassing and a little intimidating. A divorce is one of the most important events in your life. It makes sense to enquire about the attorney’s background and experience. Here are 15 Questions You Should Ask Potential Divorce Lawyers Before Hiring. Your lawyer should be able… Read More »
How is Child Support Determined and Ordered in Los Angeles and Orange County Family Court?
In California, child support is determined using a mathematical formula codified in Family Code Section 4055. The most important factors are the incomes of the parents. The next most important factor is the amount of time the parents have custody. Changes in custody time can sometimes result in changes in child support payment amounts. Child… Read More »
How to Obtain The Best Possible Outcome When You Have to Go to Court in Your Family Law Case
Four Steps to Improve Your Chances of Getting What You Desire In Family Law Hearings If You Are the Movant Submit Terrific Papers. Opposition Papers Should Be Filed As Early As Possible. Opposing Papers Should Attack the Weakness of The Movant’s Papers. Consider Telling Your Attorney You Don’t Want An Objection to The Evidence Pleading Filed…. Read More »