Writing
Notes on family law and finding the right lawyer.
Articles on California family law, choosing an attorney, and making informed decisions when the stakes are personal. Written by Ryan Beiser.
How to use Yelp reviews to avoid hiring a bad attorney
Look beyond the star rating. Specific, repeated concerns about billing and communication can tell you more than a page of praise.
You don’t want a lawyer with a fancy office
A corner office is an expense, not a measure of the representation you will receive.
The most important question to ask before you hire a family law attorney
Before hiring a lawyer, make sure you know who will actually represent you at important hearings.
“Top divorce lawyers” near me?
Advertising, office space, and search rankings tell you less than preparation, writing, and judgment.
Do I need a prenuptial agreement in California?
A premarital agreement can clarify financial expectations, but the details and the process matter.
What are “divorce papers” in California? How will I get them?
A practical introduction to the documents that begin a divorce, what they mean, and how they are served.
How much child support will the court order in California?
The guideline formula is a starting point. Accurate income, parenting-time information, and additional expenses make the difference.
How much spousal support will the court order in California?
Temporary support and support ordered at judgment are different questions, with different methods of analysis.
How to choose a family law attorney
The questions worth asking about experience, communication, billing, and who will actually handle your case.
Should I find a new family law attorney?
Eleven warning signs worth discussing, from unexplained staffing changes to unclear bills and missed communication.