Family Lawyers in Orange, CA
Family law cases involve some of the most complex and emotional issues that many people will face in their lifetimes. At the Sarieh Law Offices, we understand how challenging it can be to navigate cases involving divorce, separation, child custody, and domestic violence, and we’ve made it our mission to support our clients to the fullest extent possible. When you work with us, you have a dedicated advocate who is ready to fight for your best interests.
You deserve a family law attorney who specializes in the issues that matter most in your case, and Wail Sarieh is a Certified Family Law Specialist with extensive experience in family law.
Family Law Services
There are many services that families and individuals in California may need assistance with, and this broad range of legal issues means having an experienced family lawyer is a necessity if you want trusted guidance and representation. If you are facing any family law situations, it’s essential that you understand what your rights and responsibilities are. An attorney can help you get and stay informed on these topics, which allows you to make the best decisions for your unique circumstances.
Types of Family Law Services
At the Sarieh Law Offices, we want to help you navigate the complex legal system and ensure you are treated fairly. It’s vital that you have someone in your corner you can trust, regardless of the type of family law case you are involved with.
Divorce and Separation
Divorce is one of the most common areas of family law in Orange, California. California is a no-fault divorce state, which means that the spouse filing for divorce does not need to establish any wrongdoing or fault in order to end the marriage. Irreconcilable differences are commonly listed as the grounds for divorce, but just because fault does not have to be established does not mean that all divorces are amicable.
Family law cases involving divorce and separation in Orange, California, often involve a variety of complex topics that can make the process challenging, including:
- Asset division
- Spousal support
- Child custody and visitation
- Child support
Divorcing spouses often have property that must be divided and distributed. Since California is a community property state, most property that a couple acquires during their marriage is considered to belong to both spouses. The specifics will vary based on factors like prenuptial agreements and how the property was acquired.
Alimony or spousal support may be awarded temporarily or long-term. It is based on factors like income and earning potential of both parties, assets, and the length of the marriage.
Child custody and visitation can be a separate family law issue, but spouses with minor children are almost guaranteed to face this issue in their divorce or separation proceedings. The same is true of child support; while it can be a standalone family law case, it is also often included in divorce cases in Orange, California.
Child Custody and Support
A family lawyer can help you with child custody and support issues that deal with legal custody, physical custody, visitation rights, paternity, and child support awards. The Sarieh Law Offices help families deal with these complicated issues in Orange, California, and the surrounding areas.
There are two types of custody in California: legal and physical. Legal custody refers to the decision-making power parents or guardians have regarding the child’s education, healthcare, and other important aspects of their life. Physical custody determines where or with which parent the child will live.
Understanding the Best Interests of a Child in California
California physical custody decisions are determined using the standard of the child’s best interest. The court will determine custody based on the following factors:
- The child’s relationship with both parents
- Each parent’s history of caregiving
- The health and safety of the child
- The ability of each parent to provide for the child’s physical and emotional needs
Continuity in the child’s life is also an important factor. Elements like the child’s connection to home, school, and community will be evaluated in the context of which parent can provide the needed stability.
Domestic violence is considered in custody determinations. If either parent has a history of domestic violence, California family courts will likely require the offending parent to prove why awarding custody to them would not harm the child’s best interest. In many cases, custody is not awarded to a parent who has committed domestic violence.
What Are the Costs of Hiring a Family Lawyer?
The costs associated with legal representation in a family law matter will vary widely depending on the complexity of the case and the time it takes to resolve. While exact costs are difficult to estimate, the risks of not hiring a trusted legal advocate are clear. Without an attorney, you risk missing key deadlines, unfair asset division, loss of custody, and other serious consequences. The stakes are too high to represent yourself in family law matters.
What Does “Ex Parte” Mean in Orange County Family Law?
Ex-parte orders may be entered in emergency situations or when immediate action is needed. Ex parte means “from one party,” and if you file a motion for this type of hearing, the other party does not have an opportunity to defend themselves. Because of this, ex parte orders are often temporary and last only until a full hearing can be held.
Examples of why an ex parte order may be issued include:
- Allegations of neglect or abuse
- Credible evidence of domestic violence
- Intent to take the child out of California or the country without permission
- Unfitness due to addiction or mental health issues
Ways a Family Lawyer Can Support You
If you are seeking an emergency ex parte order or need assistance with another type of family law matter, such as divorce, custody, or support, an experienced family lawyer can provide valuable guidance and trusted advocacy. A California family lawyer can support you by:
- Filing motions and complaints in court
- Gathering and preserving evidence
- Issuing subpoenas and filing discovery
- Representing you in court
Consult an Aggressive Family Law Advocate Who Will Defend Your Rights
Whether you’re facing a divorce, custody dispute, support matter, or other family law case, the Sarieh Law Offices have the experience and dedication to help. We provide expert legal guidance, compassionate emotional support, and fierce representation. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation with our Certified Family Law Specialist.
Contact Wail Sarieh and the Sarieh Law Offices to schedule a free case evaluation with our Certified Family Law Specialist.