Saratoga Family Lawyer

Saratoga Family Attorney

Family law can be full of emotions, and it is easy to get lost in the complexity of legal procedures, terminology, and protocol. If you are dealing with any legal matter regarding the future of your family, you may benefit from the help of a Saratoga family lawyer.

What Does Family Law Include in California?

There are many types of family law cases that a Saratoga family attorney can help you with, including the following examples:

• Child custody: California law states in Family Code § 3040 that both parents are equally entitled to file for the custody of their shared child. There are several different types of custody agreements, including legal and physical custody, that will need to be decided, as well as whether both parents will be sharing custody. If this is not the case, visitation rights must be established for the non-custodial parent.
• Divorce: California saw a divorce rate of roughly 5.88 per 1,000 women in 2023. This means that almost six out of every 1,000 women in the state had experienced a divorce. There are many details that go into divorce proceedings, including property division. California Family Code – FAM § 2550 states that any property acquired during the marriage will be equally split between both spouses unless it has otherwise been legally set aside, such as in a prenuptial agreement.
• Mediation: If you and any other party in your case feel that you have reached an impasse in your negotiation process, a mediation lawyer can help. Not only can they serve as a third-party representative, but they can also lead your conversations in a realistic but productive direction, freeing you up to compromise and reach any necessary agreements. Mediation is confidential, but if ultimately unsuccessful, the case will have to start over.
• Spousal and child support: In 2024, approximately $1.2 billion was collected in child support in California alone, with 47 child support agencies scattered across the state. Child and spousal support agreements might need to be modified in the future to adjust to changes in circumstances, and a family attorney can help.
• Adoption: Adopting a child can be an incredibly exciting experience, but the legal side to the process can leave you overwhelmed, exhausted, and confused. When you enlist the help of a family lawyer, you can entrust your case to someone who knows what it takes to be successful and is ready to help you pursue your desired outcomes.
• Prenuptial and post-nuptial agreements: Prenuptial and post-nuptial agreements are often incredibly useful tools when you have property you wish to remain separate instead of getting mixed into your community property that would need to be divided in the case of a divorce.

Why Should I Hire a Family Lawyer in Saratoga, California?

There are many reasons one may choose to hire a family lawyer. Firstly, it can decrease the confusion and stress you may be experiencing. Secondly, it can prove incredibly helpful to have a knowledgeable individual walking alongside you during this difficult time. Your lawyer can provide compassion and clarity every step of the way.

While not every family law case requires the outside involvement of the California court system, it is always a possibility. If your case requires additional assistance, your case will most likely be handled at the Family Justice Center Courthouse (FJCC). Not only is it conveniently located, but it serves a broad array of family legal needs. Your lawyer can help you get scheduled and prepared for your time in court.

Why Should I Choose Law Offices of Tracy Duell-Cazes?

Not only has Law Offices of Tracy Duell-Cazes been recognized as one of the top law firms in Northern California every year since 2009, but Tracy Duell-Cazes deeply believes in helping her clients restore their hope and accomplish their goals. With tenacity, compassion, and wisdom, she can guide you toward the future that fits your family’s needs, empowering and equipping you to pursue your desired outcomes.

Tracy is a Certified Family Law Specialist, which entails a deep commitment to meeting the challenging certification requirements. She is extremely knowledgeable and has been helping families find solutions for 35 years in our community.

FAQs

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Family Lawyer in Saratoga, CA?

Each family law case is unique, so in Saratoga, CA, it can be difficult to determine the cost of hiring a family lawyer. There are several factors that can impact your overall price, including who you hire to represent you, the amount of time your case needs to resolve, and the level of complexity your case presents. If the case proceeds to court or experts are necessary, these fees can increase costs.

Is California a 50/50 State With Property Division?

Yes, California is one of nine states that have implemented the community property law, also referred to as the “50/50” law. This means that, unless there is legal documentation stating otherwise, each spouse is entitled to an equal amount of everything they accumulated during the course of their marriage if they get a divorce.

What Does a Family Lawyer Do in Saratoga, CA?

Family lawyers offer a multitude of family-related legal services. This means that they can help with divorce proceedings, adoption, child custody and support cases, spousal support cases, mediation, prenuptial and post-nuptial agreements, and more. Not every family lawyer offers all of the aforementioned services, so it is important to make sure that your needs can be met by the law firm you choose.

Do Divorced Parents Have Equal Rights in California?

Yes, both parents have an equal opportunity to pursue the custodial rights of their shared child. This does not mean, however, that you are guaranteed an even split of said rights and everything included. If you and the child’s other parent are unable to agree upon a parenting plan, a judge may step in and, based on many factors, determine whether joint custody will work and if both parents are fit to have custody.

Get More Information Today

If you need assistance with a family legal matter in Saratoga, don’t hesitate to reach out to our compassionate, effective, and highly-rated attorney. Contact Law Offices of Tracy Duell-Cazes today to schedule your consultation.