Family Law

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

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

How to File for Divorce or Legal Separation in California

Going through a divorce or legal separation in California can be an emotional and complicated process. If you are thinking about divorce or legal separation, it’s important to know the differences. You should also understand the filing process and how each choice affects your future. In California, legal separation and divorce are different. Knowing these… read more

How Parents Can Help Children Cope with Wildfires

Wildfires are a reality of life in California, and their unpredictable nature can take a toll on everyone, especially children. Even if your family is not directly affected by the flames, the stress and anxiety surrounding such events can have a lasting impact on young minds.  Here are practical tips for helping your children navigate… read more

5 Advantages of a Marital Settlement Agreement

A comprehensive marital settlement agreement (MSA) should set the terms of your divorce, including any alimony, child custody, and child support arrangements. If you can reach an MSA (and not all couples can), you will enjoy numerous advantages over litigation. Following is a description of five of the most advantageous aspects of a marital settlement… read more

What Constitutes Emergency Custody in California?

Child custody is a sensitive and emotion-laden issue. How does a San Diego family court decide on custody arrangements? The “best interests of the child” is the primary consideration, but what exactly is that? And then there’s the issue of emergency custody, where one parent is seeking an immediate change in child custody arrangements, ostensibly… read more

Is a Confidential Marriage License Better Than a Public Marriage License in San Diego?

For some couples, protecting their privacy is a high priority. If so, they might choose to obtain a confidential marriage license instead of a public marriage license in San Diego, CA. Public figures and celebrities often try to conceal their marriage for several reasons, but confidential marriage licenses are available to any couple who meets… read more

Understanding California Family Code § 2030 – Need-Based Attorney’s Fees 

Attorney’s fees can be a significant concern in family law cases. Yet, California Family Law provides mechanisms to address this issue fairly. One such mechanism is the award of attorney’s fees based on need.  Read on to explore the key aspects of need-based attorney fees under California Family Code § 2030. What Is a Need-Based… read more

How Long Will My Family Law Case Take?

A divorce, child custody proceeding, or other family law case can disrupt your daily life and cause emotional hardship for you and your loved ones. You may wonder how long it takes to resolve such matters so that you can return to your normal routine and begin the process of healing and moving forward. How… read more

What Is a Minute Order in San Diego and Is It Supposed To Be Signed By a Judge?

In San Diego, state law governs all civil law, including family law. In civil court, a party to a dispute might file a motion of some sort or another. A motion is a request for the court to do something (a motion to dismiss, for example, is a request that the court dismiss the case). … read more