How it works
How a family case runs, from the first call
Every case is its own, but most follow these six steps. At each one, we tell you where yours stands and what comes next.
- 01
Step 1: The first call
Our front desk asks what kind of case it is and whether there’s a court date. If there is one, we look for a meeting before it.
- 02
Step 2: A first meeting
One hour with a lawyer, at the office or by video, in English or Spanish. We listen, read what you bring and explain your options.
- 03
Step 3: A written plan and estimate
We send the steps we expect, the documents we’ll need from you and a cost range, before you sign anything.
- 04
Step 4: Filing and temporary orders
We file the papers, serve the other side and, if needed, ask the court for orders that keep things steady while the case goes on.
- 05
Step 5: Financial statements and talks
Both sides exchange financial information. Most cases settle at this stage, through negotiation or mediation.
- 06
Step 6: The final hearing
A judge approves your agreement or, if there isn’t one, decides after a trial. We prepare you for either.
Fees
How we bill, in writing first
Contested work is billed by the hour. Many agreed divorces and most mediations have a set fee instead. Either way, the estimate comes in writing before you hire us, and we tell you before any work would go past it.
Court filing fees, process servers and appraisers are separate costs that we list in the estimate, so none of them arrives as a surprise.
Six steps, and the first one is short
Call the office or send the form, and our front desk will find a time for your first meeting.