Divorce and Family Law Blog

Amending a Petition in California

Filing a petition in family court is an important legal step. A petition may involve divorce, child custody, support, or other family law matters. Sometimes, after filing, you realize something needs to be corrected or updated. That is where an amended petition comes in.  In California, amending a petition can help make sure the court… read more

Is a Restraining Order Public Record in San Diego? What You Need To Know

Restraining orders are used in family law cases to protect individuals from abuse, harassment, and threats of violence. Many wonder whether these orders are public record. The answer depends on several factors, including the nature of the case and whether the records were sealed or kept confidential.  What Is a Restraining Order? In family law,… read more

Ways a Parent Can Lose Custody of Their Child

Child custody disputes are some of the hardest cases California family courts handle. When a judge decides who will care for a child, their focus is always on the child’s best interests, not either parent’s wishes. While courts generally want both parents to play an active role, there are situations where a parent can lose… read more

Can I Go to Jail for Not Paying Child Support in San Diego, CA?

Child support is a court-ordered obligation that ensures both parents share the financial responsibility of raising a child. When a parent in San Diego, CA, fails to make payments, the consequences can be severe.  While most enforcement actions focus on collecting the money owed, jail time is possible in some cases, such as if the… read more

What Does Contempt of Court Mean in Family Law?

Family law cases often involve emotionally charged disputes. Due to the high stakes involved (such as child custody and property), courts issue orders that require compliance from all parties. When one party fails to comply with a court order, the consequences can be serious.  In family law, contempt proceedings are a key enforcement tool. Overview… read more

How Long Does a Court Take to Finalize a Divorce in San Diego, CA?

If you are going through a divorce, one of the first questions you may ask is: How long does a court take to finalize a divorce in San Diego, CA? The timeline can affect housing, finances, child custody, and emotional closure. While every case is different, California law sets minimum timeframes, and several factors can… read more

Unmarried Cohabitants and Palimony in California

California law treats married spouses and unmarried partners very differently. If you live together but aren’t married or registered domestic partners, you don’t get community property rights by default. Still, you may have options through “palimony” (contract-based support) and clear written agreements.  Continue reading to learn more about unmarried cohabitation, palimony, and how to protect… read more

How Abandonment Can Affect Your Divorce or Legal Separation in San Diego, CA 

When one spouse walks away from a marriage, it can cause major emotional and financial problems. In California, this situation is often called “abandonment” or “desertion.” Even though California is a no-fault divorce state, a judge can still consider this kind of behavior when making certain decisions about your case. If your spouse has left… read more

What Is a CFLS in California Family Law?

When you’re facing a divorce or another complex family matter, you’ll want to know that your lawyer has more than just basic legal knowledge.  In California, some attorneys take an additional step to become Certified Family Law Specialists (CFLS). This is a rare distinction awarded by the State Bar of California to attorneys who demonstrate… read more

Imputation of Income for Child Support in San Diego, CA

In California, it is considered the legal responsibility of both parents to pay child support. Under California’s child support guidelines, the courts consider several factors when determining the amount of child support. The income of the parents is one of the most critical factors. When a parent’s reported income information is not reliable, California courts… read more