Focus On Family
Family law disputes can be the most difficult and crucial proceedings people face in their lives. At Cal Family Law Group, our goal is to help families through these trying times with compassionate and principled legal representation. We advocate assertively on behalf of our clients, while encouraging transparency and communication between parties in order to promote fair and amicable settlement and to avoid unnecessary litigation. However, as settlement can be prevented by the other side’s refusal to compromise, we diligently prepare each case to strongly position our clients for trial.
How can we help you?
Prenuptial Agreements
Our firm can provide you and your fiancée with options to fashion a premarital agreement customized for your specific wants and needs. After marriage, we can help in amending your premarital agreement or preparing a new postmarital agreement.
Mediation
We provide neutral mediation services that can help parties reach a mutually agreeable settlement, without litigation. Unlike court, with mediation, parties get to decide their own outcome, and either can walk away at any time. Communications during mediation are confidential and inadmissible in court; this allows parties to freely communicate with one another, without fearing what they say might be used against them at later hearings. Direct and candid negotiations can help amicably resolve disputes in ways litigation often cannot.
Divorce Litigation
We approach every case with the understanding that it may find its way into family court. We are thoroughly prepared when it comes time to present evidence and argue your case before a judge.
Property Division
In some cases, property division can be relatively simple; but when there is commingling of separate and community assets and debts, or a dispute over their character and value, property division can be complex and demanding, potentially calling for the analysis of forensic accountants, property appraisers, and other experts.
Child Custody and Visitation
Whether negotiating a custody settlement or litigating a strongly contested custody case, our firm will do what it takes to protect your parental rights and the best interests of your children.
Child Support
While guideline child support is determined by computer software, erroneous or incomplete data can yield the wrong amount of support. At Cal Family Law Group, we will obtain the evidence necessary to prove the actual and potential income of both parents to accurately calculate guideline child support, and to make the case for any appropriate deviations from that amount.
Spousal Support
California courts have wide discretion in awarding spousal support, which is determined by weighing several factors set forth in Family Code section 4320, including the length of marriage, marital standard of living, and the age, health and earning capacity of each spouse. With so much grey area in considering these factors, the evidence and arguments presented to the court can make a significant difference in the amount and duration of spousal support ordered.
Modification of Orders
When there has been a material change in circumstances, such as gaining or losing employment, it may be appropriate to modify custody or support orders in a Judgment. If you take no action, you could end up paying too much or receiving too little in support for months or even years, with little to no recourse.
Enforcement of Orders
Unfortunately, parties don’t always follow the rules. If you need help collecting support arrears or enforcing any other family court orders, we can assist you in seeking judicial intervention to compel the other side to comply.