Experienced Family Law Attorneys in Berkeley, CA
Family law matters, which commonly arise during significant life transitions, can be logistically complicated as well as emotionally draining. Whether you are navigating issues related to divorce—child custody arrangements, property division, support—or creating a prenuptial agreement, every decision profoundly affects your future and family dynamics. In many cases, the legal process of resolving these issues is long and stressful, and adjustments might be necessary later on. If you need assistance with any family law issue, reach out to Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C. Our compassionate and experienced Berkeley family attorneys have the expertise to streamline your legal journey. We offer the advocacy, support, and peace of mind you deserve, whether your case is resolved amicably through negotiation or goes to litigation.
We Specialize in Family Law
Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C. is a trusted provider of legal counsel to clients in Berkeley and Alameda County. We handle all types of family law issues, including:
- Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
- Divorce and legal separation
- Child custody and support disputes
- Property division, including complex or high-asset divorces
Debra R. Schoenberg, Principal, leads the firm, bringing more than 35 years of education, training, and experience in family law. A frequent lecturer in the field, Debra holds the title of Certified Family Law Specialist from the State Board of Legal Specialization, is a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), and a Board-Certified Family Law Trial Specialist by The National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA).
Our team of Berkely Family lawyers is committed to exceptional client service, building relationships based on connection, open communication, and trust. Specializing exclusively in family law, and intimately familiar with Alameda County and Bay Area courts, our attorneys have the experience and insights necessary to address your unique needs and goals. We approach every case with empathy and understanding, ensuring you feel supported, well-informed, and confident during this sensitive time.
Our Skilled Attorneys Handle Complex Family Law Cases
Even relatively amicable, straightforward separations can face issues that become complicated and contentious. At Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C., our Berkeley divorce attorneys provide crucial legal guidance through challenging situations, including high-asset and high-conflict divorces. We are committed to listening, understanding your specific circumstances and objectives, and advocating for your best interests.
Our expertise spans a wide scope of family law issues, including:
- Addressing the major issues in divorce: asset division, child custody, spousal/child support
- Handling LGBT-related matters, including domestic partnerships
- Providing advice on pre- and postnuptial agreements
- Actions related to domestic violence
We can help you determine when mediation is appropriate and beneficial, and when it is necessary to go to court. For over three decades, clients have trusted our firm to provide the highest standard in legal counsel—personalized attention, transparency, and strategic solutions to difficult problems.
Getting Divorced in Berkeley
California is a no-fault divorce state. This means that you do not need a specific reason to file for divorce, and California courts will not consider “grounds.” If one or both partners want to end the marriage, they can be granted a divorce based on irreconcilable differences.
To file for divorce in Berkeley, California, one or both spouses must have lived in California for at least six months and in the county where the action is being filed for at least 3 months. California requires a six-month waiting period before a divorce can be finalized.
Our Berkeley Family Lawyers Ensure Fair Property Division
California is a community property state. In a divorce, marital assets and debts are divided 50/50, with few exceptions. While this may seem straightforward, the actual process of property division can become much more complex, especially if there are significant assets or a family business. The team at Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C. is skilled in managing all financial aspects of divorce or separation, including:
- Complex or high-asset property division
- Retirement portfolios
- Debts, such as loans and credit cards
- Business and professional valuations
We evaluate your financial situation and ensure that your needs are prioritized to protect your financial stability after separation.
Child Custody
Child custody and visitation rights are among the most contentious and emotionally charged aspects of family law cases. Our team at Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C. understands the sensitivity and long-term impact of these decisions and handles them with utmost care. Our services include:
- Establishing custody arrangements
- Addressing paternity rights, including DNA testing
- Assessing child support needs
- Clarifying legal vs. physical custody
We focus on the safety and welfare of your children in all proceedings. We work diligently to insulate them from conflict and ensure they receive the support and attention they deserve,
California law recognizes two forms of custody: physical (where the child lives) and legal (decisions about the child’s upbringing). California courts may grant joint or sole custody. In all custody-related decisions, the court’s responsibility is to prioritize the best interests of the child. Key factors California judges consider include:
- The ability of each parent to provide care
- The relationship between the child and each parent
- The child’s age, health, lifestyle, environment, and connections to school and community
- The mental health and stability of each parent
- Any history of addiction, criminal behavior, or domestic violence by either parent
Our Family Law Attorneys Put Your Children First
In any family law matter involving children, our firm centers our efforts on your children’s physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing, while advocating for your parental rights.
Through strategic legal approaches and compassionate care, we guide parents through custody and visitation disputes, create tailored parenting plans, and help set families up for success post-divorce. We help you make confident, informed plans and decisions that benefit your child.
Child Support
Parents in California are required to support their children until age 18 or high school graduation, whichever is later. Child support is calculated using a set formula based on factors such as parental income, percentage of parenting time, and costs such as childcare and healthcare.
Spousal Support
Spouses can request temporary support during a divorce and post-divorce support afterward. Rehabilitative support helps lower-earning spouses gain financial independence, while permanent support may apply in long-term marriages or specific circumstances.
Domestic Partnership Services in Berkeley
Until 2020, only same-sex couples could register as domestic partners; today any couple eligible to marry can register as domestic partners. Registered domestic partnerships in California offer the same legal rights and benefits as marriage, including healthcare and insurance. Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C. provides assistance with both registering and terminating domestic partnerships.
Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements
Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements provide a roadmap for how couples will divide assets and debts in the event of a divorce. Prenuptial agreements are signed before marriage, while postnuptial agreements are created after you’re married. While they can be delicate to discuss and negotiate, many couples discover that a properly drafted agreement offers clarity and peace of mind. Our attorneys can help ensure these agreements are handled with sensitivity, tailored to your specific needs, and meet required legal standards for enforceability.
Restraining Orders and Domestic Violence in Berkeley
In addition to divorce and custody cases, we handle urgent and sensitive matters such as domestic violence. Domestic violence is unfortunately common in family law cases. If you or your child have experienced abuse, we can help ensure your protection. Our Berkeley family attorneys can assist in obtaining domestic violence restraining orders on your behalf.
In California, a domestic violence restraining order is a legal measure designed to protect victims of abuse. It can require the abuser to stay away from you and your children, cease communication, and leave the shared home. If you have been threatened or abused by someone you have a close relationship with, you have the right to request a restraining order.
When You Need Family Law Support in Berkeley
Although you are not required to hire a lawyer in a California divorce, having the support of a skilled family attorney can significantly smooth and streamline the process. If your case is complex or contentious, legal guidance is essential to safeguard your rights.
Contact Our Berkeley Family Lawyers Today
Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C. has a proven record of successfully representing Berkeley and Alameda County residents. Our trusted team works tirelessly to achieve the most favorable outcomes in your case. Whether through negotiation or litigation, we are committed to helping clients navigate even the most challenging family law issues.
Reach out to our Berkeley family law office to schedule a confidential consultation.
