Experienced Family Law Attorneys in San Rafael, California
Family law disputes can be very complex—logistically, financially, and emotionally. Navigating divorce-related issues, such as asset division, child custody arrangements, and support can be a challenging and lengthy process, which can feel overwhelming, especially during significant life changes. Having a skilled and caring attorney by your side can significantly improve your results and bring peace of mind during this difficult time. The San Rafael Family Law Attorneys at Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C. offer the expertise, insight, and dedication needed to address your family law matter efficiently.
Expertise in All Areas of Family Law
For over three decades, Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C. has been committed to guiding clients through all aspects of family law. We specialize exclusively in family law matters, including:
- Divorces and separations
- Pre- and postnuptial agreements
- Child custody matters
- Spousal / child support
- Property division issues
Debra R. Schoenberg leads the firm, bringing more than 35 years of experience in family law. She 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), a Board-Certified Family Law Trial Specialist by The National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA), and a frequent lecturer in the field.
Our team of highly skilled and knowledgeable family law attorneys understand the sensitive nature of family law cases and are dedicated to addressing your unique needs and goals. At Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C., we offer strong advocacy and compassionate support throughout the process. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
The Role of Mediation in Family Law in San Rafael, CA
Many divorce and family law cases can be resolved through mediation rather than going to trial. Mediation allows couples to work together to resolve issues like parenting plans and property division, resulting in quicker and more cost-effective resolutions. It gives the divorcing parties greater control over the outcome, rather than leaving impactful family decisions to a judge.
Even in an amicable divorce, you may face conflict over key issues. It is crucial to have a knowledgeable family attorney guiding you through the negotiation process and protecting your rights.
At Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C., our experienced San Rafael family law attorneys excel in pre-trial settlement negotiations, helping you avoid court when possible. However, if your case proceeds to trial in Marin County, we will provide strong representation. Our deep understanding of California family law ensures we effectively advocate for your interests.
Handling Separations in San Rafael, California
Ending a marriage or domestic partnership can be painful and complicated. If you’re going through a divorce in San Rafael, the seasoned attorneys at Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C. are here to support you through this challenging time. We strive to alleviate your emotional burden by helping you understand your legal options and guiding you through every step in the process.
Our team has extensive experience managing the broad scope of issues that can arise during divorce, including:
- Temporary orders for financial support, child custody, and property division
- LGBTQ-related proceedings, including domestic partnerships
- Enforcement of prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
- Immediate actions related to domestic violence
We focus on your needs and build client relationships based on integrity, trust, open communication, and personalized care. Throughout your case, our San Rafael family law attorneys offer one-on-one attention and creative solutions tailored to your specific objectives.
Support for Domestic Partnerships
A domestic partnership in California is a formal arrangement between two people living together but not married. Registering a domestic partnership grants the same rights and responsibilities as marriage, including health care decisions and insurance benefits. To register, individuals must meet eligibility requirements and complete the necessary paperwork.
Until recently, domestic partnership was only available to same-sex couples. As of January 1, 2020, California’s domestic partnership laws now allow anyone eligible to marry to also register as a domestic partner, regardless of age or sexual orientation. Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C. in San Rafael can assist with the registration process.
If you need to dissolve your domestic partnership, we can guide you through the legal process. If there are no shared debts, property, or children, you may qualify for a summary dissolution. If you don’t meet the criteria, you’ll need to follow the traditional divorce process, which could involve a trial.
Our San Rafael Family Law Attorneys Prioritize Your Children’s Best Interests
Custody and visitation rights are among the most emotionally charged issues in divorce and family law, with significant implications for both parents and children. At Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C., our experienced attorneys understand the serious and delicate nature of custody disputes and we approach them with expertise and empathy. We handle all aspects of custody cases, including:
- Custody evaluations
- Paternity rights and DNA testing
- Supervised visitations
- Distinguishing between physical and legal custody
- Child support arrangements
We work closely with clients to address custody concerns, using our in-depth knowledge of California’s legal system to navigate these issues both inside and outside the courtroom. Our primary focus is on the children’s welfare, ensuring they receive the care and support they need.
Determining Child Custody and Support in San Rafael, CA
Child custody and support decisions can be some of the most difficult aspects of divorce.
By law, the court must make custody decisions based on the best interests of the child, considering several factors:
- Each parent’s ability to care for the child
- Parent/child relationships
- The child’s age, health, lifestyle, living environment, and connections to school, activities, community, and so on
- Each parent’s mental health and stability
- Any history of criminal behavior, substance abuse, or domestic violence
In California, parents can work together to negotiate a suitable child custody and support agreement. If you can reach an agreement, a judge will approve it as long as it meets legal requirements. When possible, avoiding a custody battle is beneficial for the whole family.
Creating a detailed, legally sound parenting plan typically requires an attorney’s expertise. At Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C., our San Rafael family law attorneys are dedicated to advocating for your rights and protecting your child’s well-being. We assist you in drafting a detailed parenting plan that establishes legal and physical custody, holiday arrangements, healthcare decisions, and more. Our goal is to facilitate productive discussions and creative solutions that meet your family’s unique needs, and resolve custody matters without court intervention. Our attorneys make every effort to insulate your child from conflict.
If negotiation fails, the case may go to trial in Marin County and the court will determine custody. Working with our experienced attorneys can improve your chances of achieving favorable outcomes.
Ensuring Fair Property Division in San Rafael, CA
Asset division in divorce can be complex and contentious, even in amicable cases. The process of dividing property may involve unique challenges that require tailored solutions.
How Community Property Laws Affect Family Law in San Rafael, CA
California follows community property laws. This means that all assets and debts acquired during a marriage, with few exceptions, will be divided equally between spouses in a divorce. Separate property, brought to the marriage by each individual, is not included in community property.
While the principle of community property is straightforward, the actual division process can be challenging, especially if it involves businesses or significantly commingled assets. A strategic and experienced family attorney can help you navigate the intricacies of property division in your case.
The team at Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C. is skilled in managing the financial aspects of divorce or separation, including complex and high-asset property division, business valuations, investments and retirement portfolios, debts, and more. We represent many high-earning professionals and their spouses, and excel at finding strategic solutions to financial puzzles involving significant wealth.
We evaluate your financial situation comprehensively, prioritizing and protecting your financial stability after the divorce.
Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements
For couples planning marriage, a prenuptial agreement can be a delicate topic to broach. While not every couple needs a prenuptial agreement, many find that a carefully drafted agreement provides clarity, security, and peace of mind. A prenuptial agreement provides a roadmap for how assets and debts will be divided in the event of a divorce. Postnuptial agreements are similar but created after you’re married. Our skilled attorneys can help ensure your agreement is handled with sensitivity, achieves your unique needs and goals, and meets the required legal standards for enforceability.
Contact Our San Rafael Family Law Attorneys Today For A Consultation
For over three decades, clients have trusted Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C. to help them navigate their most important and challenging family law matters. Our San Rafael attorneys offer compassionate, transparent guidance and advocate for your best interests. We strive to resolve matters amicably but are prepared to go to trial if necessary. Contact us today for a consultation on divorce, custody, property division, or other family law issues.
