At Holstrom, Block & Parke, we understand how overwhelming family-related legal challenges can be. With over 300 years of combined experience, our dedicated team of attorneys is here to help you address these issues with confidence and clarity. 

As Certified Family Law Lawyers, we’re committed to offering personalized legal solutions that put your family’s well-being first. Let’s explore the essential roles of a family lawyer and how we can assist you.

Divorce Proceedings

Divorce is never an easy, straightforward decision, and it often involves complex legal challenges coupled with emotional strain. This is where a family lawyer comes in to provide guidance and support every step of the way. Here are some key areas where we can help:

Legal Advice and Guidance

From understanding your rights to ensuring fair treatment, we’ll explain the divorce process in simple terms, so you feel informed and empowered.

Negotiation of Settlements

Dividing property and negotiating spousal support can be contentious. We’ll help you:

• Identify community and separate property under California law.
• Negotiate a fair distribution of assets and debts.
• Establish equitable spousal support arrangements, if needed.

Court Representation

If negotiations fail, we’re prepared to advocate for you in court. Our experience ensures that your voice is heard and your interests are protected.

Mediation and Collaborative Divorce

Not every divorce needs to end in court. Mediation and collaborative divorce are alternatives that promote amicable solutions. These methods can save time, money, and emotional strain while fostering a cooperative approach.

Child Custody and Support

When children are involved, their well-being becomes the top priority. California law considers many factors when determining custody and support, and a family lawyer helps you clarify your rights and responsibilities.

Establishing Custody Orders

Child custody involves both legal custody (decision-making authority) and physical custody (living arrangements). We’ll guide you through creating a custody order that works for your family’s specific situation.

Calculating Child Support Payments

Child support ensures that your children’s financial needs are met. Using California’s guidelines, we’ll help calculate fair payment amounts based on income, custody time, and other factors.

Modifications of Existing Orders

There’s one great constant we all face: life keeps changing. Whether it’s a new job, relocation, or other circumstances, we can assist with modifying custody or support orders to reflect your current situation.

Relocation Cases

If you or your co-parent need to move, we’ll help address the legal implications and work toward a resolution that prioritizes your children’s stability.

Parenting Plans

A detailed parenting plan can prevent disputes and provide structure. We’ll work with you to create a plan that sets clear expectations for custody exchanges, holidays, and decision-making.

Property Division

Dividing property during a divorce can be one of the most challenging aspects of the process. California’s community property laws require a fair division, but that doesn’t always mean a simple 50/50 split.

Identifying Separate and Community Property

We’ll help differentiate between assets acquired during the marriage (community property) and those owned before marriage or received as gifts or inheritances (separate property).

Valuation of Assets

For complex assets such as businesses, retirement accounts, or real estate, accurate valuation is crucial. We work with financial professionals to ensure everything is properly assessed.

Negotiating a Fair Division

Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who prioritize protecting your interests while seeking equitable solutions.

Premarital Agreements

If you have a premarital agreement, we’ll ensure it’s enforced appropriately and protects your rights during property division.

Domestic Violence and Restraining Orders

Domestic violence is a deeply personal and urgent matter. If you or someone you love is in danger, a family lawyer can provide critical legal protection.

Obtaining Restraining Orders

We assist in securing various types of restraining orders, including:

• Emergency Protective Orders: Quickly issued to provide immediate safety.
• Domestic Violence Restraining Orders: Longer-term protection for victims of abuse.

Legal Protection and Safety Planning

Beyond legal orders, we’ll help you develop a plan to stay safe and protect your family for years to come.

Resources for Victims

California offers numerous resources for victims of domestic violence. We’ll connect you with shelters, counseling services, and support groups to assist during this difficult time.

Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements

Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements aren’t just for the wealthy—they’re practical tools for protecting individual and family interests.

Drafting and Reviewing Agreements

We’ll help you create or review these agreements to ensure they meet your goals and comply with California’s legal standards.

Enforcing Legal Validity

An improperly drafted agreement can be challenged in court. We’ll make sure your document is legally sound and enforceable.

Other Family Law Matters

Family law encompasses a wide range of issues that extend far beyond divorce and custody. Our team is equipped to help with:

Adoption

Whether you’re pursuing stepparent adoption or independent adoption, we’ll guide you through the legal process to grow your family.

Paternity Establishment

We assist with paternity cases to ensure parental rights and responsibilities are properly established.

Guardianship

For minors or adults who need care, guardianship provides legal authority to make decisions on their behalf. We’ll help you navigate this process.

Estate Planning

Our family law services extend to estate planning, ensuring your family’s future is secure.

LGBTQ+ Family Matters

We’re proud to support LGBTQ+ families with issues such as parentage, custody, and adoption.

Facing Family Law Challenges in California? Contact Holstrom, Block & Parke Today.

Whether you’re dealing with a divorce, custody dispute, or other family law matters, Holstrom, Block & Parke is here to help. With a commitment to protecting your family’s best interests, we offer personalized legal services tailored to your needs.  Call us at 855-426-9111 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a telephonic case assessment. Let’s work together to find the best path forward.