Family Law Attorney Serving Los Angeles County

When it comes to sorting out your family law issues, you've got three options. You can go for collaboration, give mediation a try, or take it to litigation. I believe taking family cases to court should be a last resort. However, whichever option suits your situation best, you can rest assured that I, Attorney Lazor, will be there every step of the way to lead you in the right direction. 

Family law matters require careful attention and understanding, which is why I'm your dedicated family law attorney at LazorLaw. I proudly serve clients throughout Los Angeles County, including Culver City, Long Beach, Torrance, Santa Monica, Santa Clarita, Lancaster, Pasadena, Pomona, and Glendale. Using my experience and resources, I can help you through the difficulties that come with family legal issues. 

Collaborative Divorce 

Collaborative divorce is a legal process that allows couples who have decided to separate or end their marriage to work together with a team of collaboratively trained professionals. This includes lawyers like me, along with divorce coaches and financial professionals. The goal is to achieve a settlement that meets the needs of both parties and their children without resorting to litigation.  

In a collaborative divorce, you and your partner voluntarily sign a participation agreement, binding you to the process and disqualifying me from representing you in any future family-related litigation. This approach minimizes the time, cost, uncertainty, and acrimony that can accompany a litigious divorce or separation.  

Collaborative divorce can also be used to address other family issues, such as disputes between parents and the drafting of pre- and post-marital agreements. This way, you can begin your new life with documents that are consensual and mutually agreed upon. 

Mediation 

Mediation is another alternative dispute resolution process that's commonly used in family law cases. It involves me acting as a neutral third party to help facilitate communication and negotiation between you and your partner. In mediation, I don't make decisions for you but assist you in reaching a mutually acceptable agreement. 

This less adversarial and more cooperative approach compared to litigation allows you to have more control over the outcome and encourages you to work together to find solutions that meet your needs and the needs of your children. During mediation, whether family law or divorce mediation, you'll have the opportunity to discuss your concerns, interests, and goals. I'll help you explore various options and facilitate productive communication. If an agreement is reached, it can be formalized into a legally binding document. 

Some benefits of mediation include:  

• Conflict Resolution: Mediation allows you to work with a mediator to resolve disputes in a less confrontational manner. 

• Reduced Stress: Mediation decreases the chances of emotions running high during the process. 

• Greater Control: Unlike litigation, in mediation, you and your partner have control over the outcome. 

• Issue Specific: Mediation is favored when you believe you can generally agree on matters like child custody, support, and alimony. 

• Neutral Facilitator: As a mediator, I help facilitate communication and negotiation between you and your partner. 

• Flexible and Confidential: Private mediation offers more flexibility in scheduling and is confidential, except for the settlement agreement and required financial disclosures. 

Litigation 

Litigation is a traditional method of resolving family law disputes through the court system. If you and your partner are unable or unwilling to reach an agreement, litigation is the pathway where a judge makes the final decision. Here are some key points about litigation: 

• Courtroom Proceedings: Litigation involves going to court. Each party presents their argument, and the court's decision is legally binding. 

• Final Authority: In litigation, the judge has the final authority to make decisions regarding property division, child custody, child support, and spousal support. 

• Time-Consuming: Litigation can be a lengthy process involving multiple court appearances, formal discovery, and the need for expert witnesses. 

• Costly: It can also be costly due to attorney's fees, court fees, and other related expenses. 

• Reduced Control: You have less control over the outcome, as the judge's decision may not align with your preferences. 

• Advocacy: Rest assured, if your case requires litigation, I'm prepared to advocate for your rights and interests in court, striving to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family.

What to Look for in a Family Law Attorney 

As you search for a family law attorney, it's crucial that you consider their experience and expertise in dealing with family law matters. This includes areas such as divorce, child custody, and spousal support. You should look for an attorney who: 

• Has extensive knowledge about the specific laws and regulations in Los Angeles County. 

• Boasts a solid reputation and a track record of success in handling family law cases. 

• Prioritizes communication, ensuring you're kept in the loop about your case's progress. 

• Exudes empathy and understanding, recognizing that family law matters can be emotionally challenging. 

Remember, it's important that you feel comfortable with your attorney. This is someone who will be guiding you through a potentially difficult period in your life, so feeling at ease with them is critical. 

Questions to Ask During Your Consultation 

During your consultation with a family law attorney, you'll want to ask a series of questions to gauge whether they're the right fit for you. Here are some questions you might consider asking: 

• Can you tell me about your experience in handling family law cases? 

• How familiar are you with the laws and regulations in Los Angeles County? 

• Could you provide examples of similar cases you have handled and their outcomes? 

• What approach do you take when resolving family law disputes? Are you open to alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation or collaborative law? 

• How do you keep your clients updated? Can I expect regular updates and prompt responses to my inquiries? 

• Could you explain your fees and billing practices? Do you offer any payment plans or options for reduced fees? 

• How long do you anticipate my case will take to resolve? 

• Would you be able to provide references from past clients? 

These questions will help you get a better understanding of the attorney's experience, approach, and how they interact with their clients.