You may have decided it’s time for a divorce if your marriage is no longer working, or maybe you need a child support modification. Perhaps you would like to establish paternity. In any case, you need an experienced Chino family lawyer to help you through your family law issue. Here at the Law Office of Stephanie J. Squires, we are committed to helping people like you move through the legal process as smoothly as possible.
There are many aspects of family law, and we are experienced in each of them. Whether you need help with child custody, your rights as a step-parent, paternity, domestic violence, or more, we are here to help you.
What We Do at the Law Office of Stephanie J. Squires
Family law involves matters of the family, such as divorce and dissolution, child custody, and spousal support. At the Law Office of Stephanie J. Squires, we can help you get through these trying times as seamlessly as possible.
Divorce is one of the most significant family law issues. A divorce is always full of emotion, and deciding to end your marriage can be taxing for everyone involved. There are plenty of things that must be agreed upon during a divorce, as well as plenty of things you should not do. You’ll have to come to an agreement regarding property and asset division, child custody, and more. An attorney can help you navigate the law while you handle the difficult emotions behind getting a divorce.
Legal separation is similar to divorce, but you remain legally married. You’ll still have to go through property division, child support, etc., but the main difference is that you are still married in the eyes of the law. Relying on the services of a law firm instead of going at it alone helps you better understand the difference between separation and divorce and could help you achieve a more favorable outcome.
If you prefer not to take your divorce to court, you could choose to go through a mediated divorce. Mediation is more private than going to court, and you are able to work on your schedule instead of the court’s. A mediator and an attorney can help you pursue the most favorable outcomes by reaching compromises between you and your former spouse.
Child Custody
Child custody is another emotionally charged decision. You’ll want what’s right for your children, but you’ll also want to be able to spend time with them. Not only does the court have to decide custody, but they also have to decide how much child support will be paid. There are a few different types of custody: physical (who has the children), legal (who makes the decisions), joint, and sole. An attorney can help you fight for what is ideal for you and your children.
If you decide to relocate with your children after a custody agreement is made, you may need to appear back in court to have your agreement reworked. You could face charges if you move away with your children and don’t notify your co-parent or the court. No one wants to face an accidental kidnapping charge, but an attorney can help you rework your agreement so you are able to move with your children.
Child Support
Child support is required by law. You must pay child support to help your children receive all of the financial assistance they need for medical bills, school, etc., no matter what type of custody you file for. Hiring an attorney can help you reach an optimal agreement in which you pay what you can and still have the opportunity to visit your children.
Spousal support is not always required, but it can be in certain cases. If one spouse makes significantly more than the other, they may be required to pay spousal support. An attorney can help you receive the spousal support you need until you are able to support yourself without your former spouse.
Dividing your property during a divorce can be complicated. You must think of your home, your life insurance, and your other assets as well. California is a community property state, which means that any property obtained throughout your marriage belongs to both spouses. This includes your incomes, bonuses, stocks, and more. An attorney can help you separate your assets equally.
At the Law Office of Stephanie J. Squires, we provide legal services for more than just divorce, child custody, and child support. We also cover grandparents’ rights, step-parents’ rights, domestic violence charges, father’s rights and paternity, and more. We have a thorough knowledge of family law, as well as extensive experience.
How Much Does a Family Lawyer Cost in California?
There are a few potential types of fees to pay when you hire a family attorney, including a standard fee, an hourly fee, and a retainer fee. On average, hiring an attorney will cost about $300/hour. However, it is most often worthwhile.
Hiring an attorney can help you in any legal case, not just those involving family law. They can ensure your papers are correct and fight for you in the courtroom to help you obtain everything you deserve from your divorce. Proceeding without an attorney can be dangerous to your case.
You need someone who can understand your case on an individual level and who can provide you with personalized legal support. At the Law Office of Stephanie J. Squires, we have the experience needed to guide you through the complexities of any family law matter.
Why Choose the Law Office of Stephanie J. Squires?
At the Law Office of Stephanie J. Squires, our founding attorney has been working in family law for 22 years. She knows the details of family law and can help you understand them as well. She has the experience and the compassion to help you through your case, no matter how difficult it may seem.
Stephanie J. Squires is honest, open, and compassionate. She can guide you through divorce, paternity hearing, or other family law matter, whatever it may be.
Seek Help From an Experienced Chino Family Law Attorney
A family law issue can be an emotional time for everyone involved. You need the help of an experienced, compassionate family law attorney to help navigate such a trying time. Contact us at the Law Office of Stephanie J. Squires today to get started.