Family Law
Stephanie L. Williams, Attorney at Law, is a Certified Specialist in Family Law, representing clients in all aspects of divorce and separation, as well as paternity and domestic violence matters. We offer limited and full scope representation in all of the following areas:
- Divorce
- Mediation and collaborative law
- Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
- Post-judgment modifications
- Annulments
- Property division
- Child custody
- Child support
- Spousal support
- Paternity
- Domestic violence restraining orders
Divorce in California
California is a no-fault divorce state, meaning that either spouse may petition for divorce at any time. Divorce proceedings, also called dissolution proceedings, involve the resolution of all the issues related to the termination of the marriage, such as division of property, custody of any children, and any regular financial support needed for children or a former spouse. A divorce is final after all the issues have been resolved, or, with permission of the court, after six months have passed since the petition for dissolution was served.
For details about divorce, property division, custody, and support, visit the divorce FAQs page.
Mediation and Collaborative Law
Litigating divorce issues in court can be costly and emotionally draining. In recent years, many divorcing couples have brought their cases to satisfactory conclusion through the use of mediation and collaborative law, which can provide a more swift and amicable resolution. To learn more about these alternatives to litigation, visit the divorce options page.
Premarital Agreements and Post-Marital Agreements
Prenuptial agreements and postnuptial agreements can make the process of divorce smoother and simpler. These contracts allow future or former spouses to work out an agreement with respect to property division and other matters in advance of a formal dissolution proceeding. Premarital and post-marital agreements may also allow couples to opt-out of some aspects of California community property law.
Post-Judgment Modifications
Even after all the issues of divorce have been resolved, if his or her circumstances change, a party can petition for a post-judgment modification. For example, a post-judgment custody modification may be appropriate if one parent wishes to move out of state with the child, or in cases where a spouse who has been receiving financial support has become self-sufficient.
Annulments
In some cases, the California family court may agree to nullify a marriage, meaning that for legal purposes the marriage is said to have never occurred. Annulments are available in certain circumstances, such as those involving fraud or misrepresentation, or cases in which one spouse was too young to consent to marriage.
Paternity
Paternity suits are actions brought with the goal of establishing a legal parental relationship, and usually arise in cases where no marriage ever existed in order to establish parental rights or support obligations. Paternity actions may be filed by the mother, the alleged father, or occasionally by the district attorney's office.
Domestic Violence
Acts of domestic violence can have repercussions in divorce and custody proceedings, but they can also involve legal proceedings of their own. If you feel unsafe, an experienced family law attorney can help obtain a restraining order to prevent or stop abuse. A lawyer can also assist with the process of having an unwarranted restraining order dismissed.
Experienced Family Law Attorney
Whether you are facing divorce, are involved in a domestic dispute, or wish to establish or contest paternity, a knowledgeable and experienced family law attorney can provide you with trusted advice and representation throughout the process. Based in Sacramento, we assist clients throughout Roseville, Elk Grove, Davis, Folsom, El Dorado Hills, Auburn, and the surrounding areas. Contact Stephanie L. Williams, Attorney at Law, today.
