Going through a divorce is a challenging and emotional process. When high assets become involved, the stakes can feel even higher. The financial complexities and legal battles that come with a high-asset divorce can take a toll on your mental health. It is important...
California Family Law Press Room
Premarital Agreements in California: What You Need to Know
Getting married is an exciting time, but it is also important to consider the legal ramifications of your marriage. It is a common misconception that premarital agreements are only for the rich and famous. A premarital agreement, also known as a prenup, is a contract...
Understanding Taxes: A Beginner’s Guide To Securing Your Legacy
Starting the process of estate planning is an important milestone in safeguarding your legacy and ensuring the financial well-being of your family in the years to come. One of the most critical factors to consider when creating an estate plan is taxes. Although...
What Happens if You Can’t Agree in Mediation?
What is Mediation? Mediation is a confidential process in which a neutral third-party mediator assists the parties in reaching an agreement without going to court. Whatever is said in mediation cannot be disclosed in court. Mediation is typically less formal than...
How to avoid a contested will
A will outlines how to distribute a person's assets to their heirs. However, disagreements often arise. When these disagreements are serious, it can lead to a contested will. Because contested wills can cause potentially lengthy legal battles, taking proactive steps...
Common misconceptions about estate planning
Estate planning encompasses all of the land, money and heirlooms a person has. When people get incorrect information, they may accidentally make poor choices with these assets. Part of being a responsible individual means learning about common misconceptions related...
Who Needs a Paternity Lawyer?
A man gets a woman pregnant. They’re not married. She claims that he’s the father. He freaks out, buries his head in the sand, and is left off the child’s birth certificate. And then a year later, she files a request for child support. The dad meets the child, falls...
Divorce and the family pet in California
In many cases, pets occupy honored positions as family members. To some individuals, they are the same as children. Because of this, pet placement can be a contentious topic during divorce. The spouses do have the option to negotiate a settlement regarding the pet,...
What cannot be included in prenuptial agreements?
More people are turning to prenuptial agreements before marriage to keep their assets separate and to prevent disputes in the event of divorce. While prenups can address many financial matters, legal restrictions prevent certain inclusions. Couples who decide to...
Mediation vs. Arbitration: Finding Common Ground vs. Deciding a Winner
Both mediation and arbitration are forms of resolving conflicts or legal issues (also called alternative dispute resolution) that offer options outside the traditional courtroom battle. The litigation process is time-consuming and costly. Parties seeking a faster,...