Steven M. Bishop Family Law Blog on Lawyers.com

Should you hire a family attorney in California?

Monday, April 25, 2011 by Steven M. Bishop

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Every individual facing the option of Family Court, whether for a divorce, legal separation, modification of their child support or parenting schedule for their children, faces the fundamental decision of whether to hire an experienced Certified Family Law Specialist such as Steven M. Bishop, or represent themselves, frequently against an attorney representing the other party.

The decision involves weighing the risks of a court battle without understanding the rules or the system against the consequences if you lose and find yourself facing unfair child or spousal support orders or denied a reasonable custody arrangement which serves the best interests of your most precious possession- your children. 
The choice to represent oneself has become even more risky in light of new Family Court rules implemented as the result of The Elkins Commission recommendations. No longer can an individual count on being able to just tell the Judge their "story" and hope to receive a fair result. 

The new rules require evidentiary  hearings, with live testimony from witnesses, including experts.  Cases which could previously be conducted in minutes may now take hours.  Courtrooms are facing enormous backlogs, particularly with statewide budget cuts limiting staff and resources. 

A Certified Family Law Specialist like Steven M. Bishop, a San Diego family lawyer with over 33 years of experience, knows how to confront and deal successfully with these new challenges.  Having participated in numerous seminars and judicial conferences in preparation for these rules, Steven M. Bishop is uniquely qualified to help clients navigate the family law system and achieve the results they are seeking, while keeping legal expenses under control. 

More information on California Family Court.

 
Posted at 10:18 AM
Topic: Family Law
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