California Family Law

In Sacramento, CA, family law encompasses a wide range of legal matters that relate to family relationships and domestic issues. These include divorce, child custody and visitation, child support, spousal support, property division, domestic violence, adoption, and more. Family law cases can be emotionally challenging and legally complex, making it crucial to seek the guidance and support of a skilled family law attorney.

California Family Lawyer | Divorce Lawyer | Sacramento Attorney

Family law is a branch of civil law that deals with family-related issues, including marriage, divorce, child custody and visitation, child support, and spousal support. It also includes domestic violence and other matters that arise between family members. Family law is often complex and can be emotionally charged. A family law attorney can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.

Do I Need a Family Law Attorney?

Many people wonder whether they need a family law attorney. You may need a family law attorney if you are considering or going through a divorce, or if you have other family-related legal issues. A family law attorney can help you understand your rights and options and provide guidance and assistance for you. 

What Can a Family Law Attorney Do for Me?

Divorce is a significant area of family law in Sacramento. When a marriage is irretrievably broken, spouses can seek legal dissolution through the divorce process. An experienced family law attorney can provide guidance on divorce laws, help navigate the division of marital property and debts, negotiate spousal support agreements, and ensure the best interests of any involved children are prioritized.

A family law attorney can provide you with legal advice and representation in court. They can help you negotiate a divorce settlement, file for child custody, and obtain child support payments. Furthermore, a family law attorney can assist with issues such as spousal support, domestic violence restraining orders (DVROs), and civil harassment restraining orders. 

Remember that family law is complex, and it can be difficult to navigate the legal process on your own. A family law attorney can help you protect your rights and get the outcome you want. Contact our office today for a consultation concerning your family law matter. 

Below, we will explain some of the nuances of California family law, with a particular emphasis on California divorce.  

1. First Steps in a Divorce

When a couple decides to divorce, it can be an emotionally charged time. After all, they are ending a relationship that was once filled with love and promises. While the decision to divorce is never easy, it is important to understand what to expect during the process. One of the first things you should do is consult with an attorney who is experienced in family law. They will be able to explain the different options available to you, as well as the likely outcome of each option. In addition, they can answer any questions you may have about the divorce process. Once you have consulted with an attorney, the next step is to file for divorce.  After you have filed for divorce, you will need to serve your spouse with divorce papers. 

The legal process of divorce can be complex and daunting, especially if you are not familiar with the law. However, there are a couple of things to keep in mind that can help make the process go more smoothly. First, even if you and your spouse agree on the terms of the divorce, you will still need to file paperwork with the court and attend a hearing. Secondly, although it is possible to represent yourself in a divorce case, it is generally advisable to hire an attorney to assist you, as the process is complicated and emotionally charged. By understanding the legal process of divorce, you can be better prepared for what to expect and can make the process go more smoothly.

3. Child Custody and Visitation

The process of divorce can be emotionally and mentally draining for both parties as well as any children involved. One of the most difficult aspects of divorce to navigate is child custody and visitation. In many cases, both parents want what is best for their children and are able to work together to create a parenting plan that meets the needs of the whole family. However, there are also instances in which conflict arises and agreement cannot be reached. When this happens, the court may need to get involved in order to make a determination about who will have primary custody of the children. The court will consider a variety of factors when making this decision, including the best interests of the child(ren), the employment schedule of each parent, and the overall stability of each home environment.

4. Child Support

One of the most important things a parent can do is provide financial support for their children. Child support ensures that children have the resources they need to thrive, including food, shelter, and clothing. In addition, child support can help to cover the costs of education and healthcare. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly half of all children in the United States receive some form of child support. The amount of child support a parent is required to pay is determined by several factors, including the income of both parents, the timeshare with the children, and the number of children involved. In most cases, child support is paid by the non-custodial parent to the custodial parent. However, it is important to note that child support agreements can be reached through negotiation between the parents. 

5. Spousal Support / Alimony

Spousal support, also known as alimony, is a payment made by one spouse to another after the end of a marriage. The purpose of spousal support is to help the receiving spouse maintain their standard of living after divorce. In most cases, the payments are made on a monthly basis. Spousal support can be awarded by a judge during divorce proceedings, or it can be negotiated as part of a settlement agreement. In either case, it is important to have an experienced attorney on your side to protect your interests. Whether you are seeking spousal support or are required to pay it, an attorney can help you understand your rights and obligations under the law.

6. Property Division in a Divorce

One of the most difficult aspects of a divorce is often dividing up the property. Even if you and your spouse are amicable, it can be tough to decide who gets what. And, if you’re not on good terms, property division can be a major source of conflict. There are a few different ways to approach property division in a divorce. One is for the parties to agree on the property division. Another is to have the court decide the property division, following California’s rules of community property. 

Property division is oftentimes one of the most complicated aspects of a divorce. Contact our office today for a consultation to find out how we can help you navigate this complicated issue.

7. An Experienced Family Law Attorney Can Help

When it comes to family law, it is important to have an experienced attorney by your side. Family law can be complex and emotional, and you need someone who understands the laws and can help you navigate the process. An experienced family law attorney can help you understand your rights and options and can work with you to reach a fair and equitable resolution. They can also provide guidance and support during what can be a difficult time for you and your family. 

Going through a divorce can be one of the most difficult experiences a person can endure. If you are facing a divorce, it is important to have an experienced family law attorney on your side. We handle California Family Law matters, and we are dedicated to helping our clients through every step of the divorce process. We understand the challenges you are facing, and we will work with you to reach a fair and equitable resolution in your case. 

Q & A

What Is Child Support?

Child support is a payment made by one parent to another to help cover the costs of raising a child. The amount of child support paid is based on a number of factors, including the income of both parents and the number of children involved. In most cases, child support is paid by the non-custodial parent to the custodial parent. However, it is important to note that child support agreements can be reached through negotiation between the parents or ordered by the court.

What Is Child Custody?

Child custody is the legal arrangement that determines which parent or guardian has the right to make decisions about a child’s welfare. There are two types of child custody: physical custody and legal custody. Physical custody refers to where the child will live, while legal custody refers to the right to make decisions about the child’s welfare, including education and healthcare. In many cases, parents share both physical and legal custody of their children. However, it is also possible for one parent to have sole physical and/or legal custody of a child.

What Is Spousal Support?

Spousal support, also known as alimony, is a payment made by one spouse to another after the end of a marriage. The purpose of spousal support is to help the receiving spouse maintain their standard of living after divorce. In most cases, the payments are made on a monthly basis. Spousal support can be awarded by a judge during divorce proceedings, or it can be negotiated as part of a settlement agreement.

What Is Property Division?

Property division is the process of dividing up the assets and liabilities of a marriage during a divorce. This can be a complex process, especially if there are significant assets or debts involved. In most cases, the property is divided evenly between the spouses. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, and the division of property can be a major source of conflict during a divorce.

What Are the Different Types of Divorce?

There are two types of divorce: contested and uncontested. A contested divorce is one in which the parties are unable to reach an agreement on one or more issues, such as property division, child custody, or spousal support. An uncontested divorce is one in which the parties are able to reach an agreement on all issues. In most cases, divorces are uncontested.
If you are dealing with a divorce, it is important to have an experienced family law attorney on your side. Contact our office today for a divorce attorney consultation.

What Are the Grounds for Divorce?

California is considered a “no-fault” divorce state. This means that you can divorce your spouse regardless of any “fault.” The grounds for divorce in California are either irreconcilable differences or permanent legal incapacity to make decisions, as specified in Family Code Section 2310. You would cite these grounds on the FL100 or FL120 form.

What Is a Postnuptial Agreement?

A postnuptial agreement is a contract entered into by two people after they are married. A postnuptial agreement can address issues such as property division, spousal support, and child custody in the event of a divorce. In many cases, postnuptial agreements are used to protect the assets of one spouse in the event of a divorce.

What Is a Collaborative Divorce?

A collaborative divorce is a type of divorce in which the parties work together to reach an agreement on the terms of their divorce. Collaborative divorces often involve the use of mediators and other professionals to help the parties reach an agreement. In many cases, collaborative divorces are less expensive and less stressful than traditional divorces.

What Is a Prenuptial Agreement?

A prenuptial agreement is a contract entered into by two people before they are married. A prenuptial agreement can address issues such as property division, spousal support, and child custody in the event of a divorce. In many cases, prenuptial agreements are used to protect the assets of one spouse in the event of a divorce. California has codified The Uniform Premarital Agreement Act (UPAA), found in California Family Code Section 1600. et seq. The rules and requirements for prenups are further specified in California Family Code Section 1612.

What Is a Divorce Lawyer?

A divorce lawyer is a lawyer who practices family law and is experienced in divorces. A divorce lawyer can help you with the paperwork and filings necessary to obtain a divorce, as well as represent you in court if necessary. If you are facing a divorce, it is important to consult with an experienced divorce lawyer to discuss your legal options. Contact our office today for a divorce attorney consultation.

What Is Arbitration?

A postnuptial agreement is a contract entered into by two people after they are married. A postnuptial agreement can address issues such as property division, spousal support, and child custody in the event of a divorce. In many cases, postnuptial agreements are used to protect the assets of one spouse in the event of a divorce.

What Is Mediation?

Mediation is a process in which the parties to a divorce meet with a neutral third party to try to reach an agreement on the terms of their divorce. This can be used to resolve all issues in a divorce, or it can be used to resolve specific issues, such as property division or child custody. Mediation is often used in contested divorces, as it can help the parties avoid going to trial.

Contact us today by calling or texting us at (916) 704-3009 for a confidential consultation.

Client Reviews

James Arrasmith is one smart attorney! He understood my problem and came up with a great solution right away. I can depend on him to listen and ask the right questions to get straight to my issues. His availability is...

Alan Murphy

Hiring James to handle my eviction / landlord tenant case is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. He assisted me every step of the way and made the process smooth and easy. It was obvious that he truly cared about...

Monica Martínez alvarado

I've had a lot of attorneys in my life, and James is by far the best attorney that I've ever hired. He helped me with my case from start to finish and clearly explained the process to me without making it overly complex...

DD M

Great consultation, efficient, attorney. I needed possession of my home, Mr. Arrasmith acted swiftly and was able to provide me the information I needed to understand what could have been a lengthy process. Mr...

Nadia Faraci

James is an amazing attorney!! I had never hired a lawyer before (and was very nervous), but James took hours of his time to explain the entire procedure to me. He gave me a thorough consultation, and I was so impressed...

Ledi

James was the only person to answer the phone at 7am on a Saturday morning. My first phone call to him was as a scared and stressed woman with no idea on where to even begin to explain the sort of help I needed. James...

Renae Elise

James helped me with two landlord tenant issues. In both cases, I was able to expeditiously resolve my issue with the tenant. I appreciate his genuine care for his clients; a rare trait in an attorney. I would highly...

theresa26 r

I cannot begin to describe how amazing and reassuring it was to have James guide me through the most challenging moment of my life. When my mother let me know she would soon be passing from cancer and wanted to leave...

Tricia Matsis

James Arrasmith did a great job for me on my legal matter. From the first time I talked to him he was very professional and knew what he was talking about. I would recommend James Arrasmith to anyone who needs help with...

Alvin Warren

I can't express enough how much James put my heart at ease. He has really been dugiligant at getting things done vs what I have experienced before using other lawyers. Highly recommend James if your looking for trust...

Jeremy Rasmussen Finnif Skate

James Arrasmith is a fantastic attorney. He is respectful and knowledgeable! Always very responsive and really takes his time explaining everything so you can understand it. I would highly recommend you meet with James...

Andrew Noseworthy

Mr. Arrasmith was cocounsel on a complex case, but was able persuade a notoriously bad judge to go along with the resolution. He’s a fine lawyer that works hard to make sure he is prepared to win the case. I highly...

James Pearson

Highly recommend choosing James. He was extremely responsive always making sure I understood every step of the process. In addition, he would periodically check in with me before important decisions needed to be made.

Tulsi

He is experts and reasonable attorney.

Ahmad Ali Shinwary

Best attorney I ever worked with... he takes time to explain the whole process and and will make sure you are happy with his work. We did a living trust and he helped me with an eviction case. I highly recommend him!

Alina Cojocari

James is an excellent attorney. I recommend him to anyone who's looking for someone who cares and wants to help win their case! :)

Allen Esealuka

I had a few questions about my situation, I needed some legal advice so I went ahead and contacted the Arrasmith firm. James was very helpful and polite, I asked him about a dozen questions and will be pursuing llegal...

Amber Styles

I cannot begin to describe how amazing and reassuring it was to have James guide me through the most challenging moment of my life. When my mother let me know she would soon be passing from cancer and wanted to leave her...

Tricia

James is a professional with outstanding customer service. We hired him to take care of an issue for us and he delivered as promised. I highly recommend him if you have any ongoing legal issues. James it's absolute...

Aztec Gold99

He will go out of his way . The best lawyer in Sacramento!I don’t know what I would do without lawyer james.

Bryan

Very professional, understanding and willing to assist in any way he can. I am most definitely keeping James as my one stop shop lawyer.

Brad Naylor

I am so happy I found Mr. Arrasmith's law firm! I couldn't have been happier with my decision to hire James. He took my case from point A to point Z and kept me informed every step of the way. If I ever need an attorney...

Bryce Colburn

James is a wonderful addition to the legal community. He is hard working, bright and ethical. He goes the extra mile for his clients.

Caitlin Ross

He was a great attorney.

Devon Campbell

I contacted Mr. Arrasmith regarding a disability related inquiry for a family member. Mr. Arrasmith provided excellent and immediate responses to my questions. I felt as though he truly cared about the well being of my...

Anonymous

Great consultation, efficient, & positive attorney. I needed possession of my home, Mr. Arrasmith acted swiftly and was able to provide me the information I needed to understand what could have been a lengthy process...

Nadia

I had a few questions about my situation, I needed some legal advice so I went ahead and contacted the Arrasmith firm. James was very helpful and polite, I asked him about a dozen questions and will be pursuing llegal...

Amber

James is a great guy. He has helped me to start a very difficult case. That I was nervous to do. He has made me Confident that he will fight hard on my case.

Rachel

I am so happy I made a decision to hire James to help me with my case. He was very professional and assisted me every step of the way. I was able to get a very positive settlement on my case. I couldn’t be happier!

Ledi

James has helped me tremendously with my legal matter by going over all the forms with me and clearly explaining how to complete them. He has made everything easy for me. I am very glad I called James!

Patty

James did a great job helping us with getting our settlement. Followed up in timely manners and updates always provided. Thank you for your help!

Anonymous

Gave James smith a call late at night with an immediate answer, he is very quick to respond and was eager to answer any questions I had.

Erika

Mr. Arrasmith was great, he answered all my questions and was very helpful with my legal matter. Thanks again James.

Alvin

Mr. Arrasmith was great, he answered all my questions and was very helpful with my legal matter. Thanks again James.

Alvin

Mr. Arrasmith was cocounsel on a complex case, but was able persuade a notoriously bad judge to go along with the resolution. He’s a fine lawyer that works hard to make sure he is prepared to win the case. I highly...

James

I've had a lot of attorneys in my life, and James is by far the best attorney that I've ever hired. He helped me with my case from start to finish and clearly explained the process to me without making it overly complex...

Darren

James is a great lawyer! He is honest and very trustworthy. He will give you sound legal advice.

Jason Motto

Great service and customer service. Very professional too, thanks James and Maria!! Having a bilingual attorney who knows so many different aspects of the law is a BIG plus.

JC R

I found James online after an extensive search. He was knowledgeable and worked with me on a payment plan I could afford. I'm happy I picked him for dealing with my awful landlord. He helped me get the settlement I...

Jenn C

Lawyer James Arrasmith For me He very was very approachable and likeable as a person . I felt very comfortable with the knowledge, and information shared for our case. which we got desired result from. He to me is a...

John Davis

James is a wonderful lawyer and person! He is hardworking , ethical, quick and effective lawyer! He knows what he is doing.

Ka Saelee

James Arrasmith always does amazing job helping me with my landlord and tenant cases!! He is my go-to attorney when I need assistance in evicting tenants. I like how he also represents tenants as well as landlords - so...

Kerry Davis

No one likes to need an attorney, but when you do, James is amazing to have in your corner! He is smart, professional, patient, and always makes sure his client is comfortable and confident with the next steps. I refer...

Kristen Trexler

Best lawyer he will get the job done went out of his way totally

Larry Yabut

Mr. Arrasmith and his team are amazing. Mr. Arrasmith is very knowledgeable and has been amazing through our whole process. He treats people like a human being and not a paycheck, I would highly recommend him to...

Magan Mellinger

No one likes to need an attorney, but when you do, James is amazing to have in your corner! He is smart, professional, patient, and always makes sure his client is comfortable and confident with the next steps. I refer...

Kristen

I would highly recommend James. I did lots of research searching for a great Attorney in the area. He makes you feel hopeful during a difficult times. His knowledge and expertise was great!

Maria Guardado

I had a personal issue and needed to consult with a lawyer. James Arrasmith took his time to explain everything so that I could understand exactly what my options were and the best way to go about my next move. I would...

Mark Hodges

A Very Nice, Personable Attorney/Person!! He is Very Patient and Willing to Listen to My {Tour} Case/Problems>I would Highly Recommend James to Anyone Seeking Fair and Equitable Justice!! Mark, CA.

Mark Loeffler

Thank you Mr James for helping me. What a great attorney! If you need help call Mr Arrowsmith!

Marva Davis

I give James Arrowsmith Attorney at Law 5 stars not just because he supports and represents CAED (our Non- Profit Organization that works with children ) but also because of how decent a person I've found him ...

Marvell Wilson

I was sooooo nervous about my case until I called James. He literally made the entire process simple and easy for me. I cannot recommend him highly enough! He is the most amazing attorney I’ve ever had!

Peyton

James has helped me tremendously with my legal matter by going over all the forms with me and clearly explaining how to complete them. He has made everything easy for me. I am very glad I called James!

Patsa Hin-udom

I am Latina and my English is not very good, therefore the attorney made sure that there was an assistant who spoke Spanish and who translated everything he told me and answered all my questions. Excellent service, I...

Paula Barriga

James is fantastic! He answered all of my questions and gave me clear guidance. If you are looking for an experienced and knowledgable attorney, I highly recommend James. Amazing Lawyer!

peyton cooks

James has a very good heart. He takes his cases personally as if it was him. He is a very nice understanding guy

Rachel Ottley

James is very knowledgeable, professional, and dependable. He patiently guided me through my estate planning and pre-nuptial questions, and made both processes much easier for me to understand. Highly recommended.

Sanat Sahasrabudhe

James arasmith is an excellent attorney when I needed help or advice he was always there to answer my calls or emails a very kind person listens & cares.

Tariq Johnson

Thank you so much for being highly responsive. Making I understand every step of the process. As well as checking in with me before important decisions need to be made.

Tulsi Patel

Very friendly, personable, and professional. I was able to get through my legal issue relatively smoothly and had exceptional support through the entire process. Pricing was reasonable and the billing process was not...

V Cat

I had some legal questions, and contacted James Arrasmith Law firm. His response was quick, and very helpful.

vera vlasenko

I highly recommend James Arrasmith. He really listens to your needs & truly cares about his clients. He is very professional & provides great results!

Vicky Tisdale

Contact Us Now

CF-pic.png

(916) 704-3009