OUR LEGAL EXPERTISE

Practice Areas

We provide comprehensive legal representation across family law, estate planning, and protective orders. Our experienced team is dedicated to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcomes.

Divorce

Expert guidance through every step of the divorce process, from initial consultation to final settlement and decree.

Child Custody & Visitation

We advocate for arrangements that serve the best interests of your children while protecting your parental rights.

Child Support

Fair and enforceable child support agreements that ensure financial stability for your children's wellbeing.

Spousal Support

Skillful negotiation and advocacy for fair spousal support arrangements that reflect current circumstances.

Property & Debt Division

Aggressive representation to ensure equitable division of marital assets and fair allocation of liabilities.

Domestic Violence Restraining Orders

Immediate legal protection and representation to keep you and your children safe from abuse and harassment.

Civil Harassment Restraining Orders

Legal remedies to protect you from unwanted contact, threats, or harassment in non-domestic situations.

Estate Planning

Comprehensive estate planning services to protect your assets and ensure your wishes are legally documented and honored.

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the residency requirements to file in Placerville?

To file for divorce at the El Dorado County Superior Court, at least one spouse must have lived in California for the past six months and in El Dorado County for the past three months.

What is the difference between Legal Separation and Divorce?

Legal separation allows you to resolve issues like property division and support while remaining legally married. This is often chosen for religious reasons or to maintain certain benefits like health insurance. Unlike a divorce, there is no six-month waiting period for a legal separation to become effective.

What is CCRC, and is it mandatory?

Yes. In El Dorado County, if parents cannot agree on a parenting plan, they are required to attend Child Custody Recommending Counseling (CCRC). Unlike some other counties, El Dorado is a "recommending" county, meaning if you don't reach an agreement, the counselor will submit a written recommendation to the judge.

At what age can my child choose which parent to live with?

There is no fixed age where a child "chooses," but California law states that if a child is of "sufficient age and capacity to reason" (often considered around age 14), the court must consider their preference. However, the judge always makes the final decision based on the child's best interests.

How long does spousal support (alimony) last?

For marriages lasting less than 10 years, support is generally paid for half the length of the marriage. For "long-term" marriages (10+ years), the court has more discretion and may not set a specific termination date at the start.

What happens to our home and debts?

California is a community property state. Generally, any assets or debts acquired during the marriage are split 50/50. Property owned before the marriage or received as an inheritance is usually considered separate property, though "commingling" assets can complicate this.