Category: Family Law

So, you are getting divorced.  You spouse quits their job and files a motion for spousal support. They would rather collect the spousal support check instead of working. Are you just supposed to support your lazy spouse? Is there a way to fight this?… Read More

Many times, clients come to our office and we get to “clean up messes.”  In some of these cases–the damages already done to the client’s legal position are irreparable.  For many of these parties it would have also been cheaper to have an attorney from the start–instead of trying to fix the harm done while unrepresented. … Read More

A recent article from the Washington Times explores ways in which divorced families can survive the holidays.  The article does correctly point out that, like in other areas of life, a little advanced planning can go a long way. Here are my own thoughts on working your way through the holidays as a divorced (or divorcing) parent: If you have a court order, read it, follow it, and keep a copy with you.… Read More

Appearing recently at a child custody mediation (AKA child custody recommending counseling session) and trailing hearing I was reminded of two things: (1) local rules matter and (2) sometimes practicing law is a lot like playing poker Whenever child custody is at issue California courts require parents to go to a mediator (AKA child custody recommending counselor) to try to reach an agreement. … Read More

Don’t live beyond your income.  Reduce your monthly expenses—cancel perks like memberships, cancel vacations, and eat out less.  Create a budget and live by it. Consider whether you can afford to keep the family home.  Many divorcing parties really want to hold on to the family home even when it doesn’t make financial sense. … Read More

Some time after divorce is filed and served on the other spouse, each party needs to send certain financial disclosures to the other spouse.  This process ensures fairness and helps prevent spouses from hiding assets during the divorce (although the process is far from perfect). … Read More

Recent Numbers and Marriage The recent economic downturn has increased the number of opposite sex couples who cohabitate, but refrain from marriage.  Marriage rates are at an all-time low while birth rates have remained relatively stable—so more children are being born out of wedlock. … Read More

What grounds are there for divorce? There are two grounds for divorce in California: 1) irreconcilable differences and 2) incurable insanity. California is a no-fault state—meaning that judges don’t care who cheated on who or why you are splitting up. They just need to know that one of the spouses thinks the marriage is totally broken and can’t be fixed.… Read More