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...
California Family Law Press Room
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,...
Keeping Your Mom & Dad Safe With Elder Law
As dedicated elder law attorneys in California, we’ve had the privilege of helping numerous families navigate the complexities of legal matters concerning their aging loved ones. I would like to shed some light on this crucial role that elder law lawyers plays in...
How Your Estate Plan Can Prevent Your Family From Breaking Up
As an estate planning attorney working for a family law office and practicing estate planning law here in San Mateo, Santa Clara, San Francisco, and Contra Costa Counties in California, I've witnessed firsthand the impact that a well-crafted estate plan can have on...
Probate Vs. Trust Administration: Understanding The Differences
As a trusts and estates attorney in California, one of the questions I often encounter from clients is about the differences between probate and trust administration. I aim to provide clarity on this topic and help you understand the distinctions between these two...
High Net Worth Couple with a lot to Split? Get the Best Complex Asset Division Lawyer you can Find
It’s likely the worst time of your life. The marriage you thought would last forever is over. You might be feeling betrayed, enraged, bereft, depressed, grief stricken, terrified, or stunned. Any one of those emotions will make you want to move on to a happier life...
Reviewing the benefits of special needs trusts
Special needs trusts are like special savings accounts that can help families take care of a loved one with a disability. These trusts are important because they keep money safe for the future while also making sure the person with a disability can still get...
How Long Does Divorce Mediation Take in California?
There is no definitive time frame for how long it takes for divorce mediation in California. Divorce is a challenging chapter in anyone's life, and the delay and escalating costs of litigation can add to the myriad of emotional and logistical stressors. In California,...