La Jolla Divorce Attorneys

Are You in Need of a Divorce Attorney in La Jolla?

If you are divorcing and have children, you will want to secure experienced legal guidance on important issues such as custody, visitation, parenting responsibilities, and property division. These issues are often the most contested and emotionally charged aspects of divorce.

Without legal representation, parents risk entering into unfair agreements or missing out on valuable time with their children. A skilled attorney ensures that your voice is heard and your child’s needs remain at the center of every decision.

Families in La Jolla turn to Amelia J. Mattis at Mattis Law, A.P.C. when choosing legal representation for divorce and other family law matters. A divorce attorney can invaluable when:

• You and your spouse cannot agree on a parenting plan.
• You are worried about your child’s safety or stability.
• One parent is relocating, which will affect custody or visitation.
• You need to establish or modify custody and visitation orders.
• You are having disputes about dividing marital assets.
• You want to ensure your child’s best interests are prioritized during divorce proceedings.

Back to Top

Why Choose Us Over Other Divorce Attorneys in La Jolla?

When it comes to your children, you need more than just legal knowledge; you need an advocate who will fight for their best interests with compassion and determination. Here’s why so many people decide to work with Amelia J. Mattis:

• Recognized Excellence – Amelia J. Mattis has been named one of the 10 Best Female Attorneys in California by the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys.
• Top Family Law Advocate – Selected among the Top 10 Family Law Attorneys in California by the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys.
• Award-Winning Representation – Honored as Lawyer of the Year by the American Institute of Legal Professionals.
• Super Lawyers Rising Star – Recognized as a Rising Star in the legal profession by San Diego Super Lawyers.
• Top 40 Under 40 – Named one of the Top 40 Under 40 Family Law Attorneys in California by the American Academy of Attorneys.
• Best Divorce Lawyers in San Diego – Selected by Expertise.com as one of the leading divorce lawyers in San Diego.

Back to Top

Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

Your family’s future deserves thoughtful legal care. Contact Mattis Law, A.P.C. for trusted divorce representation in San Diego. Call (858) 328-4400 to learn more.

Back to Top

Your Legal Options

When a relationship ends, couples are faced with important legal decisions that affect their financial futures, parental rights, and overall well-being. While some couples choose to separate informally, a legal separation or divorce offers formal protection and clear legal boundaries. To obtain either, the process must begin with the appropriate filings in court.

Couples may opt for legal separation if they want to live apart without officially ending the marriage. This option can be beneficial for those with religious beliefs that prohibit divorce, for those wishing to retain health benefits, or for those who want time and space before deciding whether to divorce. Like divorce, legal separation involves decisions about child custody, visitation, support, and property division.

Divorce permanently ends the legal relationship between spouses. California is a no-fault divorce state, meaning either spouse can file based on “irreconcilable differences” without having to prove wrongdoing.

For couples whose marriage lasted fewer than five years and who have minimal property and no children, a summary dissolution may be available. This streamlined process is typically faster and less expensive but still requires strict eligibility.

Your options include:

• Legal Separation: Allows couples to live separately with court orders in place, without ending the marriage.
• Divorce: Legally ends the marriage and restores the right to remarry.
• Summary Dissolution: A simplified divorce process available to qualifying couples with short-term marriages and minimal assets.

Even when couples agree on terms, navigating the legal process without guidance can lead to errors or unfair outcomes. Attorney Amelia J. Mattis offers compassionate, knowledgeable support to help you protect your interests and move forward with confidence.

Back to Top

Grounds for Divorce

California is a no-fault divorce state, which means neither spouse is required to prove misconduct or blame in order to file for divorce. Instead, the person filing must simply state one of the legally accepted reasons:

• Irreconcilable differences – the most common ground, indicating the marriage has broken down beyond repair
• Permanent legal incapacity to make decisions – used in rare cases where one spouse is medically or legally unable to participate in the marriage

The divorce process itself can vary based on whether the spouses are in agreement:

• Uncontested Divorce
  • Both spouses agree on all key issues (e.g., division of property, custody, support)
  • Typically faster and less costly
  • May be completed without a court hearing
• Contested Divorce
  • Disagreements remain about one or more issues, such as parenting plans or asset division
  • Often requires negotiation, mediation, or a court appearance
  • May take significantly longer to resolve

Back to Top

Don’t Wait to Speak to an Attorney

The outcome of custody and visitation decisions can shape your child’s future for years to come. Delaying legal action may put you at a disadvantage, especially if temporary orders are put in place that do not reflect your desired arrangement.

By speaking to an attorney early, you can:

• Ensure your case is presented clearly and effectively.
• Protect your parental rights from the start.
• Avoid costly mistakes in agreements or filings.
• Establish temporary arrangements that are fair and in your child’s best interests.

At Mattis Law, A.P.C., we act quickly to protect your rights and help you secure parenting arrangements that support your child’s stability and growth.

Considering Divorce in La Jolla? Let’s Talk

Every divorce is different. Let us help you understand your options and guide you toward a resolution that supports your goals. Call (858) 328-4400 to get the conversation started.

Back to Top

What’s the Legal Process for a Child Divorce Case?

Child-related issues in divorce follow specific steps under California law. Managing this process requires legal knowledge and sensitivity to family dynamics. At Mattis Law, A.P.C., we ensure your rights are protected and your child’s well-being remains at the center of every decision.

Filing the Divorce Petition

One spouse files for divorce, beginning the legal process. If children are involved, custody and visitation will be central issues.

Temporary Orders

Parents may request temporary custody, visitation, and support orders to maintain stability for children during the divorce process.

Mediation

California courts often require parents to participate in custody mediation. This step encourages cooperative parenting plans that reduce conflict and avoid unnecessary litigation.

Investigation and Documentation

Your attorney helps gather school records, medical reports, and witness testimony to show your role in your child’s life and to support your requests.

Court Hearings

If parents cannot agree, the court will decide custody and visitation arrangements. Both sides present evidence, and the judge issues orders based on the best interests of the child.

Final Judgment

Once the divorce is finalized, custody and visitation terms become part of the court’s final order. These orders are legally binding.

Post-Judgment Modifications

As children grow and circumstances change, parents may seek modifications to custody or visitation orders. Courts allow adjustments when there is a significant change in circumstances.

Back to Top

How We Can Help You

Going through a divorce is often one of the most emotionally and financially challenging experiences a person can face. Whether it's an amicable separation or a highly contested case, having a skilled divorce attorney by your side ensures your rights are protected and that you’re not navigating the legal system alone. At Mattis Law, A.P.C., we provide strategic legal guidance tailored to your specific circumstances, helping you make informed decisions about your future and your family.

A divorce attorney doesn't just handle paperwork. They serve as your advocate in negotiations, court proceedings, and settlement discussions. From dividing marital property to determining child custody and spousal support, an experienced attorney can help you avoid costly mistakes and minimize conflict. Our goal is to pursue the best possible outcome with the least emotional and financial toll.

A Divorce Attorney Can Help With:

• Explaining your legal rights and options clearly
• Negotiating fair property division and asset protection
• Drafting and filing all necessary court documents
• Representing you in court or mediation proceedings
• Guiding you through child custody and visitation disputes
• Calculating appropriate child support and alimony
• Enforcing or modifying court orders post-divorce

Back to Top

What Clients Are Saying About Us

“Amelia Mattis is the attorney for you” - Cassidy (5-Star Google Review)

If you are going through a divorce, child custody issue, or really anything family law related in San Diego, Amelia Mattis is the attorney for you. She cares deeply about her clients and is extremely professional. You can tell that the judges, other attorneys and professionals on that case respect her, and that really makes your case reach resolution. Amelia always explains your options concisely and with advice so that you can make an informed decision for your family. She is even upfront about costs, so you know what to expect and what options you have in your budget. I have recommended her to my own friends and family, if you think you need a family law attorney in San Diego, do not hesitate to call her!

“Amelia made sure to advocate for me” - Susan Dorswitt (5-Star Google Review)

I really appreciated Amelia's calm demeanor during a time that felt incredibly chaotic. Amelia made sure to advocate for me during times I was feeling unsure in the divorce process. I really appreciated having an attorney that made things clear/simplified so I could still focus on living life outside of court without worrying incessantly about the opposing party.

Back to Top

Other Locations We Serve

• Carlsbad
• Coronado
• Del Mar
• Encinitas
• Poway
• Rancho Santa Fe
• San Diego
• Solana Beach

Back to Top

Divorce FAQs

How long does it take to get a divorce in California?

California has a mandatory six-month waiting period from the time the divorce petition is served before the divorce can be finalized. The timeline may be longer depending on the complexity of the issues involved.

Is California a no-fault divorce state?

Yes. You do not need to prove wrongdoing to file for divorce in California. Most divorces are filed on the grounds of “irreconcilable differences”.

How is property divided in a California divorce?

California is a community property state, which means assets and debts acquired during the marriage are generally divided equally, though there can be exceptions depending on the circumstances.

Will I have to go to court for my divorce?

Not necessarily. Many divorces are resolved through negotiation, mediation, or settlement agreements. However, if disputes cannot be resolved, a judge will make the final decisions.

How is child custody decided in divorce cases?

Custody decisions are based on the child’s best interests, considering factors such as the child’s health, safety, emotional ties to each parent, and stability of each home.

What is the difference between legal separation and divorce?

Legal separation allows spouses to live apart with court-ordered arrangements for custody, support, and property, but they remain legally married. Divorce legally ends the marriage.

Can spousal support be awarded in a divorce?

Yes. The court may order spousal support (alimony) based on factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s income, earning capacity, and contributions to the household.

Can divorce orders be modified later?

Yes. Custody, visitation, child support, and sometimes spousal support orders can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances.

Do I need an attorney to file for divorce in California?

While you can technically file on your own, having a La Jolla family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected, agreements are fair, and the process is handled correctly under California law.

Back to Top

Meet Our Attorney

Amelia J. Mattis

California State Bar License Number: 313421

Amelia J. Mattis is a dedicated San Diego family law attorney and the founder of Mattis Law, A.P.C. She focuses her practice on divorce, child custody, visitation, domestic violence, and complex parenting matters including parental alienation and emergency custody. Known for her compassionate, client-centered approach, Amelia takes the time to listen, understand, and advocate for her clients with unwavering commitment.

Amelia takes pride in providing focused legal support tailored to the needs of each individual and family she represents. Her goal is to help clients make their way through life-changing transitions with clarity, strength, and a clear path forward.

Back to Top