Bay Area Law Group: Family Law FAQs
To provide some helpful insights to our clients and anyone in need of some quick answers to the common questions that come up in family legal matters, we keep this FAQ page updated.
If you can find an answer here, give us a call!
Bay Area Law Group
215 West Portal Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94127
(513) 652-6848
San Francisco | Alameda | San Mateo, Contra Costa | Santa Clara | Oakland | San Jose | Daly City | Nearby Bay Area cities
Family Law Attorney Questions
Most family law attorneys charge hourly rates between \$300 and \$600. Flat fees may apply for uncontested matters like simple divorces or prenuptial agreements. Fees depend on how complex and time-intensive your case becomes.
You should speak with a lawyer as soon as you face legal issues involving family. That includes divorce, custody, support, or any situation where your rights, property, or safety may be affected by court orders.
Look for someone who gives direct answers, explains legal options clearly, and keeps you informed. A good attorney has courtroom experience, understands local rules, and offers more than surface-level advice.
A divorce attorney focuses on ending a marriage. A family law attorney handles everything related to family structure—custody, support, restraining orders, and more. Many lawyers do both, but not all are equipped to handle every issue.
Custody and Support Questions
Judges aim for shared custody when it benefits the child. California courts look at parenting involvement, stability, and cooperation—not just income or gender. There’s no built-in advantage for either parent.
Some counties offer legal aid or family court facilitators. You can represent yourself, but it’s harder to protect your rights without help. A consultation with a lawyer can still clarify your options.
Trying to manipulate the process. Judges notice when one parent withholds the child, exaggerates claims, or refuses to cooperate. That behavior can backfire quickly.
Disputed joint custody with ongoing legal battles tends to cost more than sole custody agreements. The more court time, expert evaluations, and filings required, the higher the cost.
Divorce and Property Division
A high-asset divorce involves substantial or complex property—real estate, investments, business interests, or retirement accounts. These cases often require appraisers, forensic accountants, and strategic planning.
Separate property usually stays with the original owner. That includes anything acquired before marriage, gifts, inheritances, or assets protected by a valid prenup—as long as they weren’t commingled.
It’s a legal document that details how you and your spouse will split assets and debts. Once signed and approved by the court, it becomes part of your final divorce order.
A lawyer who practices family law regularly, knows your local courts, and has experience with property division, custody, and support. Flat fees are fine for simple cases, but contested divorces need strategy.
Not automatically. Either spouse can request attorney’s fees, but the court looks at income disparity and financial need. Orders vary based on the case facts.
No, but filing on your own comes with risk. Missing paperwork or unclear agreements can lead to delays or unfair terms. Legal advice helps you avoid costly mistakes.
