Los Angeles Family Law Attorney
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
For parents, issues of child custody are the most important part of a divorce. Our firm approaches these sensitive matters with a focus on protecting your children and your parental rights.
The court’s sole consideration is the “best interest of the child.” We help you create a detailed and stable parenting plan that addresses both:
- Legal custody: The right and responsibility to make decisions about your children’s health, education, and welfare. Courts strongly favor joint legal custody.
- Physical custody: The schedule of when the children will be with each parent. This can range from a 50/50 split to a primary custody arrangement with a visitation schedule for the other parent.
We work to negotiate parenting plans tailored to your family’s needs, but we are always prepared to litigate to protect your relationship with your children.
Child support
The state’s guideline formula calculates child support. The primary factors are each parent’s income and the amount of time each parent spends with the children. We ensure the court has accurate income information and considers all relevant financial factors to arrive at a fair support amount.
The Divorce Process in Los Angeles County
We guide our clients through every stage of the divorce process with clarity and purpose.
Filing the petition and initial disclosures
The divorce process begins when one spouse files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. The other spouse then files a Response. Shortly thereafter, both parties must exchange preliminary declarations of disclosure, which are comprehensive financial statements that list all assets, debts, income, and expenses.
Temporary orders (“Pendente Lite” Relief)
Finalizing a divorce can take many months. In the meantime, you need rules for custody, support, and financial matters. We can ask the court to make temporary orders at the beginning of the case to establish a stable status quo while the divorce is pending.
The discovery process
Discovery is the formal process of gathering information and evidence. We use legal tools like depositions, subpoenas, and written questions to obtain a complete picture of the marital estate and any other relevant facts.
We use a thorough discovery process in high-asset cases to uncover hidden assets and ensure a fair property division.
Reaching a resolution
Most divorces in Los Angeles are resolved through a negotiated settlement agreement. We are skilled negotiators who advocate for your interests in settlement conferences and mediation.
However, if the other party is unreasonable, we are experienced trial attorneys who will not hesitate to take your case to trial to fight for a just outcome.
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.