Family law cases address the most personal aspects of your life. When you face a divorce, a custody dispute, or another significant family transition, you need a dedicated advocate who brings strength, stability, and a clear strategy to your side.
At Wade Litigation, we serve as your Los Angeles family law attorney, providing the focused representation required to protect your rights, your finances, and your family’s future.
The legal process in Los Angeles County is demanding. Our attorneys provide the disciplined and purposeful guidance you need to make sound decisions. We manage the intricate legal details of your case, allowing you to focus on building the next chapter of your life.
Your blueprint for resolution
- California’s Family Code governs all family law matters, including the no-fault principle for divorce and community property rules for asset division.
- Courts make all decisions regarding children, from custody schedules to relocation requests, based on the "best interest of the child" standard.
- The Los Angeles County Superior Court is one of the largest court systems in the world; familiarity with its specific procedures is a significant advantage.
- A comprehensive legal strategy addresses the immediate conflict and anticipates future needs, from modifying support orders to enforcing judgments.
- Wade Litigation provides assertive representation across all areas of family law, from high-asset divorce to complex custody disputes, for clients throughout Los Angeles.
Why Wade Litigation is Your Advocate in Los Angeles
The attorney you select directly impacts the course of your family law case. Wade Litigation offers a powerful combination of legal skill, strategic case management, and a deep commitment to our clients' goals. We are your partners in securing a stable future.
In-depth knowledge of the LA County court system
The Los Angeles County Superior Court system is vast, with numerous courthouses and departments. Our attorneys practice in these courts regularly. We understand the local rules, judicial officers, and procedural requirements, which allows us to move your case forward with efficiency and purpose.
A strategic approach to every case
We do not use a formulaic approach. We begin by listening to your story and understanding your priorities. From there, we develop a tailored legal strategy designed to achieve your specific objectives, whether through skilled negotiation, mediation, or assertive litigation in the courtroom.
Direct and consistent communication
You deserve to know the status of your case and have your questions answered promptly. At Wade Litigation, you work directly with your attorney. We provide our clients with knowledge, clear explanations, and straightforward advice, enabling them to make informed decisions at every stage.
Trial-ready from day one
We always seek to resolve matters amicably and efficiently. However, we prepare every case as if it will go to trial. This meticulous preparation strengthens your position during settlement negotiations and ensures we are always ready to fight for your interests in court when a fair agreement cannot be reached.
Comprehensive family law services in Los Angeles
"Family law" covers the legal rules governing family relationships. Our firm provides skilled representation across the full spectrum of these sensitive matters. We manage cases involving divorce, child custody, financial support, and more with the dedication your family deserves.
Divorce and dissolution
California is a no-fault divorce state; you do not need to prove wrongdoing to end a marriage. The process involves resolving all related issues, including property division, support, and custody. We guide you through each step, from filing the initial petition to finalizing your judgment and protecting your financial security.
Complex Property Division for High-Net-Worth Individuals
Los Angeles is home to complex and high-value marital estates. Dividing these assets equitably requires financial sophistication. We have experience handling the division of a wide range of assets.
Our attorneys work with financial professionals to ensure accurate valuation and equitable division of community property. We routinely handle cases involving:
- Business interests, professional practices, and partnerships.
- Real estate portfolios, including commercial and residential properties.
- Stock options, Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), and other executive compensation.
- Entertainment industry assets like royalties, residuals, and intellectual property.
- Retirement accounts, pensions, and investment portfolios.
This work often involves tracing separate property funds that have been commingled with community assets and preparing Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) to divide retirement plans without tax penalties.
Protecting Your Children in Custody and Visitation Matters
For parents, the well-being of their children is the top priority. We help you create stable and nurturing parenting plans that protect your relationship with your children.
California law requires judges to make custody decisions based on the child's best interest, a standard we help you meet with clear evidence.
Establishing and modifying child support
California uses a statewide guideline formula to determine child support. The calculation is based on each parent's income and the amount of time each parent spends with the children.
We ensure the court has accurate financial data to issue a fair support order. We also assist with modifications when financial circumstances change.
Spousal support (alimony) determinations
Spousal support helps a lower-earning spouse maintain the marital standard of living for a period following the divorce. Unlike child support, there is no rigid formula.
A judge considers the factors listed in California Family Code § 4320, including the length of the marriage, each party's earning capacity, and contributions to the marriage. We build strong arguments for fair and appropriate spousal support orders.
Domestic violence restraining orders (DVROs)
Your safety is the first priority. We act swiftly to help victims of domestic abuse obtain DVROs to provide legal protection for themselves and their children. These orders can prohibit contact, grant temporary custody, and require the abuser to move out of the family home. We also defend individuals who are falsely accused of domestic violence.
Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
These legal agreements allow couples to define their financial rights and responsibilities before or during a marriage. A well-drafted prenuptial or postnuptial agreement can provide clarity and protect separate property assets, business interests, and inheritances.
We draft and review these documents to ensure they are enforceable and meet your goals.
The Legal Process: From First Steps to Final Resolution
The stages of a family law case follow a general path. Understanding this path provides a clear sense of what to expect.
The initial consultation and strategy session
Your case begins with a confidential consultation, during which we discuss the facts of your situation, your goals, and your concerns. We will provide an honest assessment of your legal position and outline a potential strategy for moving forward.
Filing petitions and requesting temporary orders
A case officially begins when one party files a petition with the court. The other party then has a set amount of time to file a response. At this early stage, we can also request temporary orders from the court to establish rules for custody, support, and the use of property while the case is pending.
Discovery: The information-gathering phase
Discovery is the formal process where we exchange information and build the factual foundation of your case. This phase ensures both sides have access to all relevant information before negotiations or trial.
The primary tools of discovery include:
- Financial Disclosures. Both parties must exchange detailed declarations of their income, expenses, assets, and debts.
- Written Questions (Interrogatories). We send formal questions to the other party, which they must answer under oath.
- Requests for Documents. We can demand copies of financial records, communications, and other relevant documents.
- Depositions. We question the other party or key witnesses under oath in front of a court reporter.
A thorough discovery process uncovers the truth and builds a strong case for settlement or trial.
Negotiation, mediation, and settlement
The vast majority of family law cases in Los Angeles resolve without a trial. We are skilled negotiators who work to achieve a comprehensive settlement agreement that protects your interests. Mediation, a process involving a neutral third-party, often facilitates these agreements.
Litigation and trial
If we cannot reach a fair settlement, our firm is fully prepared to advocate for you in court. We present your evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and make persuasive legal arguments to a judge. Our readiness for trial gives you leverage throughout the entire process.
The Problem with AI for Personal Legal Issues
AI programs can assemble general information from the internet, but they cannot provide legal advice. An AI cannot understand the emotional dynamics of your family, the nuances of your financial situation, or the specific procedures of the Los Angeles Superior Court.
Making life-altering decisions based on a chatbot's generic output is a significant risk. Your family's future requires the judgment and strategic guidance that only a qualified Los Angeles family law attorney from Wade Litigation can provide.
FAQ for Los Angeles Family Law Attorney
What is the difference between a contested and an uncontested divorce?
An uncontested divorce means both spouses agree on all issues, including property division, support, and custody. They submit a written agreement to the court for approval. A contested divorce means the spouses disagree on one or more issues. This disagreement requires negotiation, mediation, or a court trial to resolve.
Why is the "date of separation" important in a California divorce?
The date of separation marks the end of the marital economic community. Any asset acquired or income earned by either spouse after this date is generally their separate property. Determining the correct date of separation can significantly impact how a court divides property and debts.
Should I have a lawyer if my spouse and I use a mediator?
A mediator is a neutral party who facilitates discussion; they cannot give legal advice to either side. You should retain your own attorney to consult with during the mediation process. Your attorney advises you of your rights, reviews proposed settlement terms, and ensures any final agreement protects your interests.
What happens if my ex-spouse ignores our custody or support order?
A family law court order binds both parties. If your ex-spouse violates the order, you can file a motion with the court to enforce it. For support orders, the court can garnish wages or seize assets. For custody orders, a judge can order make-up parenting time and sanction the non-compliant parent.
Can someone challenge a prenuptial agreement in court?
Yes. A court might set aside a prenuptial agreement if it finds that a party did not sign it voluntarily, that one party failed to provide full financial disclosure, or that the terms are "unconscionable" or extremely unfair. Having separate, experienced legal counsel for each party when creating the agreement is the best way to ensure a court will uphold it.
Take Control of Your Future
You do not have to face these challenges alone. The right legal team can provide the direction and support you need to move forward. The attorneys at Wade Litigation are ready to protect your interests and help you build a secure future for you and your family.
Our firm serves clients throughout Los Angeles County. We invite you to schedule a confidential consultation to discuss the specifics of your case and learn how we can help.
Call Wade Litigation at (866) 784-2624 or complete our online contact form to connect with an experienced Los Angeles family law attorney today.