Family Law Practice in San Diego

The San Diego attorneys at Hilbert & Satterly LLP specialize in divorce, legal separation, and annulment cases throughout Southern California. They understand that these matters are emotionally taxing, and they strive to offer clear guidance and support. With skilled representation, including a Board-Certified Family Law Specialist, most cases are resolved through mediation and agreements, but they are prepared to go to trial to protect clients' interests.

Legal separation, unlike divorce, establishes the rights and obligations of separated spouses without terminating the marriage. Whether permanent or a step toward divorce, our lawyers are adept at handling these procedures.

Annulments declare a marriage or domestic partnership invalid, as if it never existed. Various legal grounds can justify annulment, such as fraud or a preexisting marriage. Hilbert & Satterly LLP's attorneys provide crucial support during annulment proceedings.

Other issues related to family law, including property division, child custody, support issues, domestic disputes requiring restraining orders, and paternity determinations, are also handled by our firm. Our San Diego team is committed to zealously safeguarding your rights and guiding you through each stage of the legal process.

Equitably dividing marital assets can be complex and contentious in divorce or legal separation. This includes interests in bank accounts, retirement funds, stocks, insurance policies, business interests, and real estate. Our San Diego attorneys at Hilbert & Satterly LLP will thoroughly review all property interests, collaborating with experts if needed, to ensure fair division.

Many couples with substantial assets define their property rights and support obligations through prenuptial or postnuptial agreements. These contracts vary significantly, so it's wise to consult an experienced attorney to ensure proper execution. Our team, led by a Board-Certified Family Law Specialist, can validate and enforce such agreements, or litigate disputes if required.

Living together without marriage (a Marvin arrangement) doesn't create marital rights in California, and nonmarital cohabitants are governed by civil rather than family law. Still, our attorneys at Hilbert & Satterly LLP can assist in legal matters, including breaches of agreements, partnership disputes, and cases of unjust enrichment

Child custody and visitation are often contentious topics in family law. Custody pertains to parental responsibilities, while visitation or 'time share' concerns the time spent with children. These decisions significantly impact children's healthcare, education, and welfare. Courts consider various factors to determine the child's best interests, such as their age, health, and school ties. Led by a Board-Certified Family Law Specialist, our attorneys at Hilbert & Satterly LLP handle these matters expertly in San Diego and Southern California, whether resolved amicably or litigated in court.

Relocation or 'move-away' situations, which create complex custody and visitation issues, are our specialty. Our attorneys understand the legal rights and presumptions affecting these cases, providing proficient handling of these proceedings.

Court orders concerning child custody and support can often be modified post-judgment based on changing circumstances. As lives evolve, changes in interests, housing, financial situations, and more can justify a modification to custody, visitation, and support orders. Our attorneys at Hilbert & Satterly LLP are experienced in filing and opposing such modification motions."

Child support, ordered by the court for the upkeep of minor children, is calculated according to California Family Code guidelines. These consider each party's income, number of children, time-share arrangement, tax filing status, and other factors. While the court-ordered support usually adheres to these guidelines, exceptions can be made in extraordinary circumstances or by parental agreement. Additional orders may cover childcare and uninsured medical expenses. Led by a Board-Certified Family Law Specialist, our San Diego attorneys are experts in child support matters, ensuring the interests of clients and their children are protected.

Spousal support (alimony) is often awarded during divorce proceedings to maintain the marital standard of living. Despite common misconceptions, either spouse may qualify for alimony based on their financial situation. Courts have discretion over the amount and duration of alimony, often encouraging the recipient to become self-supporting over time. Alimony can be modified and is sometimes regulated by prenuptial or postnuptial agreements. The attorneys at Hilbert & Satterly LLP are experienced in handling spousal support matters, aiming to maximize alimony entitlement or minimize alimony obligations as needed.

Hilbert & Satterly LLP is proud to provide family law services to those serving in the armed forces at a discounted rate.

We understand the issues that arise when a member of the military becomes involved in a family law dispute, particularly with respect to deployments, SCRA, retirement, disability, and other military benefits. These issues impact active-duty members, retired personnel, their spouses and their dependents.

Our San Diego-based family law attorneys, led by a Board-Certified Family Law Specialist, are experienced at handling family law matters for servicemembers of all branches and look forward to the opportunity to help you.