San Francisco Family Lawyer

Getting the California courts involved in a personal, private family matter isn’t something that many of us desire, but when legal relationships need to change, it often requires a court order, such as in a divorce, assigning child custody, or adoption. Attorney Bernie and his team help your family through these legal changes, advocating for your best interests and treating you with the dignity and compassion you need during these often-emotional times. Contact our San Francisco, CA family lawyer today for a consultation.

Family Lawyer San Francisco, CA

Family law deals with the legal responsibilities and obligations that family members have toward one another. This includes divorce, annulment, child custody and support, spousal support (alimony), prenuptial agreements, and adoptions. It also covers relationships between housemates, such as domestic violence. Our firm handles all these matters on your behalf and more. We know many family law cases are emotional, and often one of the hardest things you’ll have to go through. Let us take care of protecting your rights and helping you achieve the result you want.

Our San Francisco family lawyer is deeply familiar with the body of laws that make up the California Family Code, so we know what legal options you have, and the possibilities to achieve the results you need. We get to know you so we understand what matters most and what you need from our legal team.

If you’re going through a divorce or fighting for custody of your child, we help develop compelling arguments in favor of your preferences (such as a specific piece of marital property or primary custody and support) and present them to the court. You don’t have to worry about figuring it out alone; we explain your rights and the options open to you.

For people seeking our help because they are in danger or worried about their safety, or the safety of their child, we take swift action to protect you. We can draw up temporary orders to give you time and space to get somewhere safer, including temporary custody and support orders. Whatever your needs are, trust our legal team to fight for them.

Our Experience And Compassion Matter In Family Law Cases

Our San Francisco family lawyer fights for your interests as your case progresses. We give you the advice you need to hear at each stage and guide you through the legal process. With our deep knowledge of the California Family Code and personal care for you, our client, we’re often able to achieve the result you need.

• Firm founder Bernie J. Kempen is a Certified Family Law Specialist acknowledged by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization
• Attorney Bernie holds an outstanding 10.0 AVVO rating reflecting excellence in client service and professional achievement
• Honored with the AVVO Client Choice Award and acknowledged as an AVVO Top Contributor
• Committed to giving back — Attorney Bernie has served as President of the Castro Valley Rotary and as Director of the Castro Valley Arts Foundation

How can Attorney Bernie help you resolve your family law matter? Contact us today for a consultation.

Types Of Family Law Cases We Handle

Family law cases often involve personal matters that affect daily life, finances, and relationships with children. These cases can arise during marriage, after separation, or when parents need court orders related to their children. You’ll need to get in touch with your San Francisco, CA family lawyer if you want to minimize any roadblocks. At Attorney Bernie, we provide our clients with award-winning representation. Now, we’re ready to help you. Read on to see the types of family law cases we handle, and get in touch with us today to get started.

Divorce Cases

Divorce is one of the most common family law matters. These cases address the legal end of a marriage and may include decisions about property division, financial support, and parenting arrangements.

Legal Separation Cases

Some couples choose to live apart while remaining legally married. Legal separation cases allow spouses to establish court orders related to property, support, and parenting while the marriage continues.

Annulment Cases

An annulment asks the court to declare that a marriage was never legally valid. These cases are usually based on specific legal grounds such as fraud, lack of consent, or other issues that existed at the time of the marriage.

Child Custody Cases

Child custody cases focus on where children will live and how parents will share parenting time. Courts review many factors when determining arrangements that serve the child’s best interests.

Child Support Cases

Child support cases address financial contributions for a child’s daily needs. Courts review income, expenses, and parenting time when determining how support payments should be handled.

Spousal Support Cases

Spousal support may be requested during or after a divorce. Your San Francisco family lawyer will review income levels, employment history, and financial needs to determine whether support should be awarded.

Property Division Cases

When a marriage ends, spouses must address how marital property will be divided. These cases may involve reviewing bank accounts, vehicles, homes, and other shared assets. You’ll need your domestic relations lawyer to smooth out this process.

Parenting Plan Disputes

Parents sometimes disagree about schedules, decision making, or other aspects of raising their children after separation. These cases may involve court review of existing custody orders and possible changes to parenting arrangements.

Modification Of Existing Court Orders

As your marriage lawyer can explain, family law orders are not always permanent. If circumstances change, a parent or former spouse may ask the court to modify orders related to custody, parenting time, or financial support.

Paternity Cases

Paternity cases address the legal identification of a child’s father. Once paternity is established, the court may address custody, visitation, and child support responsibilities. All the more reason to contact your family law lawyer right away.

Contact Us Today

Family law matters often involve decisions that affect both finances and relationships. If you are dealing with a legal issue involving your marriage, your children, or your household finances, it may help to discuss your situation with someone who regularly handles these types of cases. Contact Attorney Bernie today to get started with a San Francisco family lawyer from our team.