Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The frank answer is, this is a process.  It depends on multiple factors like: children; the extent of property to divide and the complexity of division (i.e., community vs separate property (and the definitions)); did someone get a gift from their family to make a purchase for property—real or personal; was there mingling of accounts from prior to marriage; is there domestic violence; are there “control issues”; is there a prenuptial agreement; whether parties are able to negotiate in good faith; other attorney and how they or the firm handles negotiations; will the other person be reasonable (and the other attorney); does a motion need to be filed related to any issues; are there intervening factors (i.e., family invovlment, new girl/boy friend, etc.); the personalities involved in the case; debts; and on goes the list.  This is why it is do critical to start with a consultation.

The soonest date is six months from the date someone has been served with the Petition for Dissolution.  However, if there are contested issues of custody/visitation, child support, spousal support, or division of property, then your case will likely require at least one or more court hearings (the timing of which depends on the court’s availability), and it will likely take longer than six months before the divorce can be finalized.

No, not if an agreement can be reached. It really does depends on the attitude of each person and how willing each person is to negotiate instead of litigation.

Keep in mind that getting divorced can take many different paths from highly contention with lots of courts appearances (i.e., litigated divorce with court) to mediating a quick resolution with no court (i.e., mediated divorce) to even resolving on your own with an attorney providing legal review.  Other options include a collaborative divorce, attempting to settle amongst attorney and the parties, or using an independent person to help resolve issues as you can see from reviewing our services

No.  You must disclose any such transfers to your trustee and the trustee can sue these people to recover the assets you gave away.  Failure to disclose this is a crime.  We highly suggest talking with a lawyer before you take any steps like this.

It can be requested, but is not guaranteed.

No, there are automatic temporary restraining orders in place that prohibit you from doing so.

Yes.

Both are equally involved and function as a team.  We encourage clients to contact your assigned paralegal first as their hourly fee is much lower than attorney’s and in many cases can immediately address your questions.  If your assigned paralegal cannot take care of it, your communication is immediately passed on to attorney.

Usually 30 minutes, but it might vary depending on circumstances.

We are happy to check our calendars and see what is available, so get in touch with us.  Obviously, we will have to learn more about what you need and by when, but we are happy to figure that out with you and see if our calendars can coordinate.

Our experience shows us that meeting in person is typically the most effective approach for all parties and best way to address things, unless you are out of town or cannot get into the office based on schedule.

To answer specifcally, the firm has been around since 1978.  The most effective answer is:  It depends on which attorney you are inquiring about as our attorneys range from younger talent of eight years to more seasoned veterans with over 20 years.  View attorneys and their bios.

Yes.

No.

Online, you can pay using Discover, Visa, MasterCard or American Express..  Or if you prefer we accept checks, cashier’s checks, and cash.

No charge for the first 30-minutes the based on the attorney’s rate for any time after that.  On average, an initial consultation lasts between 30-minute to 1-hour.

The attorney will quote based on the individual case as each case is different in it’s complexity, state of relationship of divorcing parties, and many other variables.

Any monies not used will be refunded during the process of closing your case.

Each attorney’s hourly rate is dependent on their years of experience, special qualifications such as CLS-F, success rate and several other variables.  In general, attorney rates range from $350 per hour to $600 per hour, which are in alignment with the San Diego market.  That said, we typically suggest taking advantage of the no charge 30-minute consultation to see what is involved with your family law matter to help give you a more precise answer for your unique situation.

Our address is 2755 Jefferson Street, Suite 200, Carlsbad, CA 92008.  Map & Directions.  We have a free parking lot with ample parking.

We have a free parking lot with ample parking at our 2755 Jefferson Street, Suite 200, Carlsbad, CA 92008 location.  View Map & Directions