San Diego Family Law Blog

Navigating Child Custody in a San Diego High-Asset Divorce: What Parents Need to Know

High-income custody cases can be very complicated. When significant assets, demanding careers, and multiple residences are involved, courts must take a deep look at how a child’s daily life will be affected by divorce.read more

Fighting for Custody of a Special Needs Child in San Diego? What You Need to Know

San Diego custody cases involving children with disabilities are evaluated differently than standard custody disputes. In these cases, courts in California take a much closer look at each parent’s ability to meet the child’s medical, developmental, and physical requirements, especially when those needs involve in-home care.read more

Who Gets to Live in the Marital Home During Divorce in San Diego?

One of the most immediate and emotionally charged questions in many divorces is: Who stays in the marital home while the case is ongoing? In San Diego County, the answer is not always straightforward. California’s community property rules provide a framework for dividing ownership, but they do not automatically determine who lives in the home during the divorce process. Instead, courts often rely on temporary orders, financial considerations, and practical realities.read more

A San Diego Divorce Attorney Discusses Costly Mistakes to Avoid in a High-Asset Divorce

When substantial wealth, diverse assets, and high income are involved, a divorce can get really complicated. High-net-worth individuals face unique challenges under California divorce laws, and avoiding critical errors can make a big difference when it comes to safeguarding your future.read more

How to Limit Contact With Your Ex-Spouse After Divorce in San Diego

Managing your life after divorce can be emotionally challenging, especially if your former spouse was abusive, controlling, or continues to engage in conflict. For many people in California, establishing strong post-divorce boundaries is essential not just for peace of mind, but for personal safety and the well-being of their children.read more

How Long Does It Take to Get Divorced in San Diego? Timeline & Tips

If you are contemplating divorce, or if you have already begun the process, you might be wondering how long it’s going to take. There are a number of factors that could influence the timeline for completing a divorce.

While an uncontested divorce can take around 6 to 12 months, contested divorces often last well over a year, especially when custody, property, or support issues are involved.read more

How Custody Affects Your Ability to Make Medical Decisions for Your Child

Divorce or separation can raise a lot of serious issues for parents, and one of the most important questions that has to be addressed is who gets to make medical decisions for your child. Whether the issue involves vaccinations, surgery, medications, or mental health treatment, your legal rights will depend on the type of custody arrangement you have.read more

Co-Parenting Strategies for LGBTQ+ Families Post-Divorce

Going through divorce can be difficult for any family. But LGBTQ+ parents may face additional considerations. Issues like child custody, parental rights, and post-divorce parenting plans can be challenging, especially in cases involving non-biological or non-adoptive parents.read more

Amelia Mattis Teaches Other Lawyers About Soberlink as Part of Minors Counsel Training

On November 14, 2025, Amelia Mattis had the honor of making a presentation about Soberlink, a leading alcohol monitoring technology, at the San Diego Family Law Bar Association’s annual Minors Counsel Training. Amelia’s Soberlink session was part of an intensive educational program that is required for attorneys seeking appointment as Minors Counsel in California.
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What Counts as an Emergency in San Diego Child Custody Cases?

Child custody issues are often emotionally charged, but not every conflict qualifies as a legal emergency. If you believe your child is in immediate danger or at risk of being removed from the state without permission, you may need to act quickly. But it’s important to remember that in California, emergency child custody orders are only granted in certain urgent situations.read more