San Diego Family Law Attorney

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Do You Need a San Diego Family Law Lawyer?

When it comes to protecting your family, nothing it’s important to have the right legal support. Whether you're navigating a divorce, facing a custody dispute, or trying to secure emergency protection for your child, the right San Diego family law attorney can make all the difference.

At Mattis Law, A.P.C., we provide compassionate, knowledgeable, and focused family law representation to clients throughout San Diego. Our goal is simple: to help you protect what matters most with dignity and strength.

You may need a San Diego family law lawyer if:

• You're going through a divorce or legal separation
• You need help securing or modifying child custody or parenting time
• You're concerned about parental alienation or your rights as a grandparent
• You’re facing a domestic violence situation and need emergency custody or a restraining order
• You or your co-parent has special needs custody concerns
• You're considering a postnuptial agreement or annulment
• You need help with spousal or domestic support issues

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Why Choose Us Over Other Family Law Lawyers in San Diego

Led by attorney Amelia J. Mattis, our firm is known for handling difficult custody matters and bringing clarity to emotionally difficult situations. We take the time to understand your family dynamics, listen to your goals, and guide you toward legal solutions that meet your needs today and safeguard your future.

• Recognized as one of the Top 10 Family Law Attorneys in California by the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys
• Included in the San Diego Super Lawyers list of Rising Stars
• Named Lawyer of the Year by the American Institute of Legal Professionals
• Selected as one of the TOP 40 UNDER 40 in California by the American Academy of Attorneys (AAOA)
• Recognized by Expertise.com as one of the Best Divorce Lawyers in San Diego
• Experienced in handling high-conflict custody modifications and emergency cases

You and Your Family Deserve a Strong Legal Advocate

Speak with a trusted San Diego family lawyer by calling (858) 328-4400.

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Reasons to See an Experienced San Diego Family Law Attorney Right Away

Acting early allows your attorney to protect your interests, support your goals, and guide you toward resolution with minimal disruption to your life. Waiting too long to speak with a lawyer can result in missed deadlines, weakened positions, and unresolved conflicts that escalate unnecessarily.

Family law matters are often time-sensitive. Courts may require prompt action for emergency custody, restraining orders, or temporary support, and missing these opportunities can limit your legal options later. Even if your situation doesn’t feel urgent, legal processes take time—and the sooner you begin, the more control you’ll have over how things unfold.

Here are some reasons to contact a family law attorney right away:

• Protect your parental rights from the outset of a custody dispute
• Prevent or stop parental alienation before it damages your relationship with your child
• Secure emergency custody or a restraining order when safety is at risk
• Understand your financial exposure regarding support, property, or debt division
• Establish clear boundaries with your co-parent early in the process
• Avoid common mistakes that can be costly or legally damaging
• Ensure proper documentation is collected from the beginning to strengthen your case
• Create a roadmap for navigating the legal process with confidence and clarity

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The Role of Family Court

Family court is where legal matters involving spouses, children, and domestic relationships are resolved. While the court's goal is to act in the best interests of the children and ensure fairness between parties, navigating the process can be intimidating without representation. The legal system can feel overwhelming, especially when emotions run high or urgent protection is needed.

Family court handles a variety of matters, including:

• Child custody and visitation
• Child and spousal support
• Restraining orders in domestic violence cases
• Annulments and postnuptial agreements
• Emergency custody actions

While some matters can be resolved through mediation or settlement agreements, many require court intervention, especially when there is high conflict or urgent need. Having a skilled family law attorney ensures your voice is heard and your rights are protected at every stage.

Protecting Your Children and Your Future

Contact Mattis Law, A.P.C. at (858) 328-4400 to take the first step toward resolution and peace of mind.

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Areas of Family Law That We Practice

Custody

We handle all aspects of child custody, including legal and physical custody, parenting plans, and visitation schedules. Our firm is especially experienced in complex custody disputes involving relocation, contested modifications, and high-conflict parents.

Grandparents' Rights

Grandparents may have legal standing to seek custody or visitation under California law, especially when it serves the child's best interests. We help grandparents navigate the process of asserting their rights in challenging family circumstances.

Parental Alienation

We work with parents who are being unjustly pushed out of their children’s lives. Parental alienation can be difficult to prove, but it has serious long-term effects. We help document the behavior and take action to restore your parental bond.

Co-Parenting

Healthy co-parenting can be difficult to maintain, especially after divorce or conflict. We help parents create clear, structured parenting plans that minimize disputes and provide stability for their children.

Special Needs Custody Issues

Custody cases involving children with special needs require careful planning and a deep understanding of the child’s medical, emotional, and educational requirements. Few firms in San Diego are equipped to handle these cases with the experience and care we provide.

Alimony, Spousal Support, or Domestic Support

Whether you're requesting or contesting support, we help calculate fair and accurate support obligations. We address short- and long-term financial needs, income disparities, and future earning capacity.

Annulments

Postnuptial Agreements

Postnuptial agreements allow spouses to define how assets, debts, and support will be handled during the marriage or in the event of divorce. We draft, review, and negotiate postnups that are enforceable and fair.

Emergency Custody

If a child is at immediate risk due to abuse, neglect, or unsafe living conditions, we act quickly to request emergency custody orders. We know how to gather and present evidence to secure the protection your child needs.

Domestic Violence

Restraining Orders

We assist in filing and defending restraining orders in domestic violence cases. Restraining orders can restrict contact, provide exclusive use of the home, and award temporary custody, offering immediate legal protection.

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How an Attorney Can Help

Family law attorneys do more than just file paperwork. At Mattis Law, A.P.C., we are advocates, strategists, and guides through some of the most sensitive and emotional legal challenges a person can face. Every family is different, and every case demands a personalized approach that balances legal strength with empathy and understanding.

We help clients by:

• Explaining their legal rights and options clearly, so they can make confident and informed decisions
• Creating legally enforceable agreements around custody, support, and property that reflect their goals and protect their interests
• Filing motions for emergency relief when immediate action is needed to protect children, property, or personal safety
• Preparing and presenting compelling cases in court, backed by strong evidence, expert input when necessary, and clear legal arguments
• Working to resolve issues through negotiation whenever possible to reduce conflict, cost, and emotional strain
• Providing emotional support and practical advice throughout every phase of the legal process, helping clients feel heard and empowered

We understand that family law matters are not just legal issues; they are deeply personal. Our approach is rooted in compassion and driven by results. Whether your case involves high-conflict custody, special needs considerations, or urgent protective orders, we are here to stand by your side, protect your rights, and work toward the best possible outcome. At Mattis Law, A.P.C., you don’t just get legal representation – you get a trusted advocate committed to your long-term well-being.

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What Clients Are Saying About Us

She is the person I would want in my corner -Athena Hwang (5-Star Google Review)

Amelia Mattis is an attorney you want on your side! I had the honor and privilege of working with her. She truly cares about her clients and provides personable representation. Amelia shows compassion during a trying time in her client’s life and takes the time to explain everything thoroughly. She advocates fiercely for her clients, is dependable, and is highly experienced in family law. She is the person I would want in my corner advocating for me.

She truly cares about her client s-Jay Shapiro (5-Star Google Review)

Amelia does a great job to educate her clients on options and the process. Family law is such a complicated arena to navigate and is such a trying time for a family. Amelia takes the time to ensure she is thorough because she truly cares about her clients, their experience through the process, and the outcome.

I have seen Amelia in action as I worked with her and have seen firsthand her dedication and passion for helping her clients.

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Other Locations We Serve

• Carlsbad
• Coronado
• Del Mar
• Encinitas
• La Jolla
• Poway
• Rancho Santa Fe
• Solana Beach

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Speak With a Trusted San Diego Family Law Attorney

At Mattis Law, A.P.C., we understand how deeply family law issues affect your life and your future. You don’t have to face them alone. Whether you're in the early stages of a dispute or in urgent need of protection, we are here to stand by your side with knowledge, compassion, and strength.

Call us today at (858) 328-4400 to schedule a free consultation today.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What types of family law cases do you handle?

We handle a wide range of family law matters, including child custody, spousal support, divorce, domestic violence, emergency custody, restraining orders, annulments, postnuptial agreements, and complex cases involving special needs children.

How is custody decided in California?

Custody is determined based on the best interests of the child. Courts consider factors like the child’s health, safety, emotional well-being, and the ability of each parent to provide a stable environment.

Do grandparents have custody or visitation rights in California?

Yes. Grandparents may petition the court for visitation or even custody in certain situations, especially when it's in the child’s best interests or the parent is absent or unfit.

What is parental alienation, and how can I prove it?

Parental alienation occurs when one parent actively works to damage the child’s relationship with the other parent. We help gather documentation, witness testimony, and expert opinions to support your case.

How are custody cases involving special needs children handled?

Special needs custody cases require careful consideration of medical, educational, and emotional needs. Our firm has experience addressing these unique challenges and crafting parenting plans that reflect the child’s requirements.

What is the difference between spousal support and domestic support?

Spousal support is financial assistance provided after separation or divorce. Domestic support can refer to financial help provided to a partner in non-marital relationships under certain conditions.

Can I file for emergency custody in San Diego?

Yes. If a child is in immediate danger due to abuse, neglect, or unsafe conditions, we can file for emergency custody and present evidence to the court for immediate protection.

How do I get a restraining order for domestic violence?

We help clients file for temporary and long-term restraining orders through the San Diego courts. These orders can offer immediate protection, custody provisions, and no-contact directives.

What is the difference between legal custody and physical custody?

Legal custody refers to the right to make decisions about a child’s upbringing, such as education, healthcare, and religion. Physical custody refers to where the child lives and the day-to-day care provided.

What is a no-fault divorce?

California is what is known as a no-fault divorce state. This means that a spouse who is asking for a divorce does not need to prove that the other spouse did something wrong.

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Meet Our San Diego Family Law Lawyer

Amelia J. Mattis

Amelia J. Mattis is a dedicated San Diego family law attorney known for her compassion, strategic thinking, and commitment to helping families navigate some of life’s most difficult challenges. As the founder of Mattis Law, A.P.C., she focuses exclusively on family law, including complex custody disputes, emergency custody matters, parental alienation, and cases involving children with special needs.

Known for her empathy and clarity, Amelia helps clients make informed decisions while fiercely protecting their rights. Whether resolving cases through negotiation or litigation, she is a trusted advocate committed to guiding families toward stability and peace.

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Mattis Law, A.P.C.
7730 Herschel Avenue
Suite N
La Jolla, California 92037

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Additional Information

• Should You Switch Attorneys During a Family Law Case?
• How to Find a Family Law Attorney That Fits Your Specific Case
• How Threats Influence Family Law Cases
• The Advantages of Mediation