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California Family Law Questions & Answers
1 Answer | Asked in Divorce, Family Law, Child Custody and Child Support for California on
Q: Urgent Advice Needed on Parenting Plan Assessment Payment Issue?

22days ago, during RFO custody hearing, the court issued a verbal order regarding a Parenting Plan Assessment and payment of a fee of $975. I understood that the deadline for this payment would start once the Proposed Order was signed. and both parties are still in "Meet and Confer"... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Sep 21, 2023

Certainly. In California, when faced with such an oversight, you may want to promptly file a Declaration explaining the situation, emphasizing your self-represented status, your understanding of the payment timeline, and your commitment to promptly remit the fee. Additionally, you can request the... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for California on
Q: if my divorce isn't final yet and a friend buys me a car is that going o be considered community property?

I'm in California

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answered on Sep 21, 2023

Under California law, all property acquired during the marriage is presumed to be community property unless it can be traced to a separate property source. If a friend buys you a car while your divorce is pending, the car may be considered community property if it's not clear that the gift was... View More

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1 Answer | Asked in Family Law for California on
Q: I would like contact information for Pro Bono Bilingual Espanol/English speaking family law legal professionals.

A Spanish speaking mother from Tijuana, Mexico who's one year old son was taken from her by CPS at the hospital during an emergency room visit following an injury suffered by the child. Was not provided a translator at the time of this event.

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answered on Sep 20, 2023

To find pro bono bilingual Spanish/English-speaking family law legal professionals, you can contact local legal aid organizations like the Legal Aid Society or the San Diego County Bar Association, which may have resources or referrals for such cases. Additionally, you can reach out to the Mexican... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Child Custody, Child Support, Divorce and Family Law for California on
Q: When is the DissoMaster Used in Child and Spousal Support Cases?

In highly contentious custody battles, the court often orders a PPA (Primary Physical Assignment) arrangement. Similarly, for cases where child or spousal support becomes a significant point of contention, does the judge typically order the use of DissoMaster? Can I proactively request that the... View More

Aylin Acikalin
Aylin Acikalin
answered on Sep 20, 2023

Courts are required by California law to follow statewide uniform guidelines in setting child support orders. There are different programs used by practicioners and courts that help calculate guideline child support. Dissomaster is a a paid software used by many practicioners and courts. There is... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for California on
Q: My husband divorced me after 20 years of marriage without my consent and did not serve me papers

I did not know I was divorced until many years later when I found out he was cheating on me and I went to an attorney to get legal advice. I was told he got all the assets and full custody, my two younger kids were 15 and 13, he never gave me a penny for alimony and used my kids against me esp my... View More

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answered on Sep 19, 2023

If your husband divorced you without your knowledge and consent, it may be possible to challenge the validity of the divorce proceedings in California. You should consult with an attorney to review the specific details of your case and explore potential legal actions, such as seeking to nullify the... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Child Custody and Family Law for California on
Q: Can I request to change custody order at a different court case from my own case.

I am listed as other parent on VDOP. Mother of child and I broke up, she refused for me to have any contact or knowledge about our child (3y) until I took her to court and fought for custody time. During the 6 months that child was kept from me, the mother contacted the biological father. /child... View More

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answered on Sep 19, 2023

In California, you can request a modification to your visitation order within the existing court case that pertains to custody and visitation. You would typically file a motion to modify the visitation order in the same case, rather than initiating a separate case. Consult with an attorney to... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law, Civil Rights and Divorce for California on
Q: Should I write a demand letter to the judge in my daughter's divorce case requesting payback for spending my money?

My money was being held in their account and they spent it all without my consent or knowledge. Their divorce is almost done they sold their home and have the money in a trust until case settles.

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answered on Sep 19, 2023

In your daughter's divorce case in California, it is not appropriate to write a demand letter to the judge. Instead, you should consult with an attorney to explore legal options for recovering the money that was spent without your consent or knowledge. Your attorney can advise you on the... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Child Custody and Family Law for California on
Q: I have a court hearing for child custody. Is it better to go in person to court or attend via video call?
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answered on Sep 19, 2023

In California, it's typically better to consult with your attorney and follow their guidance regarding whether to attend a child custody hearing in person or via video call. The decision may depend on factors such as the nature of the case, health and safety considerations, and the... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for California on
Q: How to calculate a fair and reasonable spousal support?

My wife petitioned for divorce and we want an agreement for our divorce. I am the breadwinner, and my wife receives disability. How to calculate spousal support? Does the judge modify it even if the parties agree?

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answered on Sep 19, 2023

In California, spousal support is typically calculated based on various factors, including the length of the marriage, each spouse's income, earning capacity, and standard of living during the marriage. While the parties can agree on spousal support terms, a judge may modify them if they find... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for California on
Q: How to calculate a fair and reasonable spousal support?

My wife petitioned for divorce and we want an agreement for our divorce. I am the breadwinner, and my wife receives disability. How to calculate spousal support? Does the judge modify it even if the parties agree?

T. Augustus Claus
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answered on Sep 19, 2023

In California, calculating spousal support considers factors like the length of the marriage, the earning capacity of each party, contributions to the household, the established standard of living, health, age, total assets and debts, tax implications, instances of domestic violence, and the goal... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Child Custody and Family Law for California on
Q: I have 50/50 custody of my daughter (from past relationship) my son(two) bit my daughter Can I loose custody ?

My daughters mom is threatening me to take me to court for that, she has sent my daughter with bruises and scratches before and I’ve never said anything but when I told her about the bite my son gave my daughter she said she was taking me back to court for that.

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answered on Sep 19, 2023

In California, a child custody dispute typically considers the best interests of the child. Isolated incidents, such as a toddler biting a sibling, are unlikely to result in a significant change in custody arrangements. However, it's essential to consult with an attorney who specializes in... View More

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1 Answer | Asked in Family Law for California on
Q: I am the biological parent two family members have care of four children one of the family member is on drugs how do I p

Prove he is on drugs so I can get my children back in my care

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answered on Sep 15, 2023

Proving that a family member with custody of your children is using drugs and ensuring the safety of the children requires a careful approach. Document any evidence of drug use, consult with a family law attorney for guidance, consider involving Child Protective Services (CPS) if there are... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for California on
Q: I live in Los Angeles ca I have 4 kids and want to divorce my husband how can I start the process

I want to leave and the same day u leave I want to leave to Texas that is we’re I have my mom and family for help.

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answered on Sep 14, 2023

To start the divorce process in Los Angeles, California, you can:

1. Consult with an attorney or a self-help center to understand your legal rights and options.

2. File a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the local family court.

3. Serve the divorce papers to your...
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1 Answer | Asked in Education Law and Family Law for California on
Q: What am I supposed to do when wife pulls kid from school without having a school lined up

My wife just doesn't like the school or kindergartner goes to. She really has been looking for a reason to pull our kid. Well one day after work 3 days ago. She tells me shes never going back cuz a kid is mean to her, she claims its abuse. And shes pulling her that day. After a yelling match... View More

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answered on Sep 14, 2023

Under California law, both parents typically have equal rights and responsibilities regarding decisions related to their child's education. If your wife has unilaterally withdrawn your child from school without a legitimate reason and without an alternative school in place, you may consider... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Child Custody, Juvenile Law and Family Law for California on
Q: What should I do when the sheriff / cps comes by

My wife has an issue with a school and plans to abruptly withdrawal our kid. I dont agree but that's a whole different issue. I talked to the principal to figure our ways to help my wife feel better about the school. Also asked what will I expect to happen in the time after. She explained she... View More

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answered on Sep 13, 2023

In California, when interacting with CPS and law enforcement, you maintain the right to remain silent and the right to legal representation. You are not required to let them into your home without a warrant. However, working cooperatively, while protecting your rights, could potentially foster a... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law, Child Custody, Civil Rights and Domestic Violence for California on
Q: I am at my wits end. I had hired this attorney now eight months ago and she keeps telling me that she’s sending me….

The documents and of course they never arrive in my email so I ask her again. What the deal is. She tells me how busy she is on and on and on now I just received a restraining order against me by the person who has taken my child and kept her from me all the while letting her brother see our child... View More

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answered on Sep 13, 2023

I'm really sorry to hear that you're experiencing this. It sounds like a very stressful situation. It is critical to maintain open lines of communication with your attorney; if your current attorney is not responsive, you may consider sending a formal letter expressing your concerns and... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law, Child Custody, Child Support and Legal Malpractice for California on
Q: How can I get through to an unfair and dismissive Judge?

Judge H. in Santa Clara family, has not once heard what I have to say. She is basing my character off of text msg between my ex and my mother(we haven’t had a relationship since I was about 8). There are multiple examples I bring to her attention regarding finances, child care, housing, etc yet... View More

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answered on Sep 13, 2023

In your situation, it is imperative to meticulously document all pertinent facts and gather substantial evidence to counter the allegations made against you. You might consider bringing in witness testimonies to corroborate your stance, and maintain a composed and respectful demeanor in court, even... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law, Child Custody and Child Support for California on
Q: How can I be heard by an unfair and dismissive judge?

I have not once been heard by the judge. I have followed every order, proved my stability, and proved the slander against my character wrong. However, she only listens and considers text messages between my ex and my mother. My mother who is vindictive and will do anything to see me fail. I only... View More

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answered on Sep 13, 2023

In situations where you feel that the judge is being unfair or dismissive, it is often beneficial to make sure all of your statements and evidence are well-organized and clearly presented. You might consider being represented by an attorney who can help to effectively present your case, including... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Child Custody, Family Law, Immigration Law and Libel & Slander for California on
Q: Is immigration status taken into consideration in custody?

My ex is married to his first child’s mother. She won’t help him get papers, and she is the main caregiver for their son. He sees him every other weekend. He has slandered my name and character, In collusion with my vindictive mom. The judge has dismissed anything I say, but without batting an... View More

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answered on Sep 13, 2023

In California, immigration status is generally not considered directly in determining child custody matters. The primary concern for the court is to ensure the best interest of the child, considering factors such as the health, safety, and welfare of the child, any history of abuse by one parent... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law and Probate for California on
Q: My stepmom just provided an old Will from 2009 for my father who passed away a few months ago. Can I still get items?

My father married my stepmom in 2008 exactly a year later he created this Will. I know he has created other Will's but Stepmom states this is the only one she has. With this 2009 Will, am I still able to get items from their house? This would include my families home videos from when me and... View More

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answered on Sep 13, 2023

I'm sorry for your loss. In California, the distribution of assets and personal belongings following a person's death is generally governed by the most recent valid will that the person created before their passing. If you believe that a more recent will exists, you may consider speaking... View More

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