Divorce and Family Law Blog

Surrogacy In California: Does the Surrogate Mother Have Any Parental Rights?

Whether surrogate mothers have parental rights depends on the type of surrogacy arrangement and where the agreement takes place. California law distinguishes between traditional surrogacy and gestational pregnancy. Surrogacy arrangements are complex, and it’s important that they are handled properly for the safety and emotional well-being of everyone involved.  If you’re considering surrogacy, reach out… read more

How To Explain an Absent Parent To Your Child

Regardless of your feelings about your co-parent, your child likely has a special bond with them. This bond does not break during a divorce or separation. Even if you have custody due to the other parent’s mental, legal, or physical issues, your child may still experience feelings of loss when they cannot spend time with… read more

What Is Marriage Abandonment in California? 

In 1969, California signed its no-fault divorce law, becoming the first state to allow no-fault divorces. Here, you do not prove that the other spouse did anything wrong to get a divorce. Instead, you petition the court for divorce, informing it that your marriage has been irretrievably broken due to irreconcilable differences.  While you don’t… read more

Does Infidelity Always Lead To Divorce?

It’s often said that around half of all marriages end in divorce. While that estimate was once accurate, it is a bit of an exaggeration today. New studies show that around 43% of first marriages end in divorce and that divorce is on a downward trend.  Infidelity is one common reason for divorce. Many people… read more

Can I Take My Children to Dog Beach in San Diego on Days I Have Custody?

Dog Beach is San Diego’s only 24-hour beach for dogs. Dogs can run without leashes, but owners must follow applicable laws and are responsible for controlling and cleaning up after their pets. The Original Dog Beach is a landmark in Ocean Beach. It is nationally famous as one of the first leash-free beaches for dogs…. read more

Can I Take My Children to the San Diego Zoo on Days I Have Custody?

Generally speaking, you can take your children to the San Diego Zoo and other area attractions on days you have custody unless the parenting plan or a court order restricts where you can go. If you want to travel outside of California or spend a vacation on the other side of the state, you might… read more

Is My Inheritance Considered Community Property in California? 

California is one of a few states that use community property rules during a divorce. Community property typically includes all income and assets acquired by either spouse during the marriage. Each spouse has a 50% ownership interest in community property. Therefore, community property is typically divided equally between the spouses during a divorce. There are… read more

Can I Take My Children to a San Diego Padres Baseball Game on Days I Have Custody?

Attending a San Diego Padres baseball game is a great family outing. The Padres play at Petco Park, an iconic stadium, and the weather is beautiful season-long. Generally, a parent can take their children to a San Diego Padres baseball game without thinking whether they have permission.  However, what happens when the parents are no… read more

The Pros and Cons of Shared Child Custody: What You Need to Know Before Making a Decision

When spouses divorce, they may have different goals and needs for themselves as they transition from a broken marriage to their individual lives. However, if those divorcing spouses are parents of a minor child (or children), custody is often a significant issue. The goal must shift to providing a positive adjustment for the child. This… read more

Tips For Taking Your Kids To the Riverwalk Golf Club As a Solo Parent

If you’re a recently divorced parent or a parent in the middle of a divorce, you know that the process can take a tremendous emotional toll on you, your kids, and even your pets. One of the best ways to connect with your children and help them navigate the difficulties of divorce is by taking… read more