Compassionate Family Law Attorneys Serving Carmel, California
At some point, many Californians will need the guidance of a family law attorney. As family law matters often arise during difficult life transitions, they can be complicated, high-conflict, and emotionally fraught. Whether you’re navigating a complex family issue or seeking expert advice, Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C. is ready to assist you. Our skilled and caring team of Carmel family law attorneys are equipped to handle all aspects of family law, including prenuptial agreements, divorce, custody, asset division, support issues, and parentage.
Contact our office today by phone or online to speak with attorneys who are:
- Compassionate listeners and exceptional communicators
- Practical and knowledgeable advisors
- Skilled and strategic negotiators
- Experienced courtroom litigators
How Our Carmel Family Law Attorneys Can Support You
At Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C., our Carmel family law attorneys stand by you throughout every phase of your case, striving for client service that exceeds your expectations. We’re dedicated to understanding and achieving your unique goals, finding creative solutions to challenging problems, and streamlining the legal process by handling all aspects of your case, including:
- Drafting and preparing all required legal documents
- Negotiating settlements to resolve disputes outside of court whenever possible
- Assisting in developing workable child custody arrangements
- Accurately calculating child support payments
- Representing you in court when necessary
Debra R. Schoenberg, principal at Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C., brings over 35 years of experience in family law. Debra has earned the title of Certified Family Law Specialist from the State Board of Legal Specialization and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML). She is also a Board-Certified Family Law Trial Specialist by The National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA).
Our firm builds client relationships based on connection, trust, and transparency. Contact Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C. for assistance with any family law matter. With over three decades of proven success, we are well-equipped to guide you through the family law process.
Understanding Family Law
Family law addresses a broad spectrum of civil laws related to marriage, divorce, property division, child custody, paternity, domestic violence, and other family matters. California’s family law system is complex—professional legal guidance is essential to navigating these issues effectively.
Prenuptial Agreements in Carmel
If you’re preparing to marry in California, you may wonder whether a prenuptial agreement is right for you. A prenuptial agreement is a contract, drafted before the marriage, that outlines property rights and responsibilities during the marriage and in the event of a divorce. A postnuptial agreement is similar, but created after you are already married. Although it can be a sensitive topic, many couples decide that a pre- or post-nuptial agreement is a smart and practical move that supports their goals.
For a prenuptial agreement to be enforceable, it must meet certain criteria:
- It must be written
- It must be signed by both parties
- It must be entered into voluntarily with full knowledge of its terms
- The terms must be fair and not overly one-sided
- A mandatory reflection period may be required in some cases
Divorce Process in Carmel
California is a no-fault divorce state. This means that you do not need a specific reason or “grounds” for divorce. If one or both partners wish to end the marriage, they can file for divorce based on irreconcilable differences.
To file for divorce in Carmel, California, one spouse must have lived in California for at least six months and in the county for at least three months. California mandates a six-month waiting period before a divorce can be finalized, without exceptions.
Dividing Assets in a California Divorce
As a community property state, California requires equal division of all property and debts acquired during the marriage. While this seems simple, in practice the asset division process can become very complex and result in conflict. Speak with our experienced attorneys to discuss your specific situation.
Spousal and Child Support Issues
Spousal and child support are financial arrangements that help support a lower-income spouse or assist with raising a child. Each of these payments is calculated differently.
In California, child support is determined using a specific formula based on:
- The number of children
- The income of each parents
- The percentage of parenting time each parent has
In addition to child support arrangements, co-parents must share the cost of non-reimbursed medical expenses and any childcare related to employment.
There is no fixed formula for calculating permanent spousal support. The court will evaluate numerous factors, including each spouse’s earning capacity, health, age, length of marriage, and potential for becoming self-supporting through education or training.
In some cases, courts may impute income if a party deliberately reduces their earnings attempting to minimize support obligations. Courts cannot compel someone to change careers but may factor it into the calculation if a person has the ability to earn more but chooses not to. Determining if unemployment or underemployment is voluntary or involuntary is crucial in support cases.
Contact Our Carmel Family Law Attorneys Today
If you’re dealing with a family law issue, reach out to Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C. in Carmel. We will schedule a consultation at your convenience, address your concerns, help you understand your rights, and guide you through the next steps in your legal journey. Contact us today.
