 Divorce Mediation ServicesWhile as a lawyer I represent one spouse during a divorce, I can also be hired by both as a neutral mediator. As a mediator, I am a neutral participant in the process of reaching a settlement. I will help you communicate, but I will not give you legal advice. Divorce mediation can be an attractive alternative for many divorcing couples. It can be less expensive, more private and result in a solution that works for your family. Contact me for a free 30-minute consultation. |
I have been representing Sonoma County clients in family law cases for more than 20 years. If you need an attorney to represent you in any of the following areas, don't hesitate to contact me. I'm happy to provide a free 30-minute consultation for people who are considering hiring a family law attorney.
- Divorce: In most cases, couples going through divorce can resolve their issues without going to court. I will work with you to make your divorce go smoothly and seek a fair distribution of property and debts.
- Child Custody and Visitation: Determining the best custody arrangement for the child at the time of separation and modifying the arrangement later to meet the changing needs of the child are two of the trickiest family law issues and always the most important.
California law is focused entirely on the "best interests" of the child, and so am I. Sonoma County has developed a method of handling custody disputes that is oriented toward avoiding conflict and protecting the child.
- Child and Spousal Support: California has a formula for calculating child support called "guideline child support." California does not use a formula in determining permanent spousal support, which is instead based on the facts and circumstances of each individual case. In lengthy marriages, a spousal support/alimony order can be set for an indefinite period of time.
- Wills and Trusts: To make sure your wishes are carried out, it is in your best interests to execute a will and perhaps a trust. I will efficiently and affordably prepare a will for you that complies with California law, as well as any trust documents that may be to your advantage, such as revocable living trusts that are used to avoid probate..
- Living Wills and Powers of Attorney: A health care power of attorney ("living will") helps you make your health care wishes known and enforceable. A springing power of attorney allows a trusted person to handle your financial affairs. I can help you with either or both of these documents.
- Probate and Estate Administration: California law makes probate — settling the estate of someone who has died — very difficult without help from a lawyer. Administering a trust often requires similar legal services. I offer affordable help with trust and estate administration.
- Other Legal Issues for Families: Family law is a broad field where I have extensive experience. I help clients with paternity or reverse paternity actions, guardianships, uncontested stepparent adoptions, restraining orders and harassment orders.
I strive to make my services affordable to middle-class families in need of quality legal advice and representation. If you are considering hiring a family law attorney, I invite you to contact me to schedule a free 30-minute consultation at my law office in Santa Rosa.
