We do not require a retainer. Fortunately, when the Pandemic hit us in March 2020, we had already been a paperless office for many years with two cloud based case management systems. However, the Pandemic propelled us to make many improvements to our client service protocols, retainer requirements, direct calendaring, electronic exchanges and remote systems being some examples. This has allowed our firm to concentrate more on client service and less on wasteful antiquated management systems. If you entrust us with your family law matter, you'll be in excellent hands.

When It's Over,
It's time to move on

San Francisco Collaborative Divorce Lawyer

Not all divorces end up in screaming matches in court. Many times, both spouses realize that it’s time to end the union, and can work together to reduce time in court, legal fees, and animosity through collaborative divorce. However, just because the divorce is collaborative doesn’t mean that you should forego legal representation. Our San Francisco, CA collaborative divorce lawyer ensures that any compromise you work out with your ex is favorable to you and doesn’t infringe on your rights. Is collaborative divorce right for you? Learn more in a consultation with Attorney Bernie.

Collaborative Divorce Lawyer San Francisco, CA

If you and your spouse have worked out how to divide your shared property and communal debts, and have agreed on a child custody schedule that serves your child’s best interests, you’re already way ahead of the game in a divorce. However, while it may be tempting to agree to a settlement just to be done with it, be careful. Once you submit your divorce settlement to the court and a judge approves it, the agreement becomes legally binding, and you may not be able to change it if you find out a few months or a year afterward that you’re stuck with a settlement that doesn’t actually meet your needs.

Instead, talk the matter over with our San Francisco collaborative divorce lawyer before you sign it. With decades of combined experience, our legal team has encountered nearly every type of divorce situation, and we can quickly identify “gray” areas that allow for different interpretations, which could cause problems later. We can review your settlement, clarifying specifics and adding details to prevent future disputes.

We also review the settlement to ensure that you haven’t been taken advantage of. You may be fairly entitled to a much larger share of community property, for example, or a much smaller portion of debt. If necessary, we can renegotiate the settlement before it’s submitted to the court, providing you with the means to live a comfortable life as a single person. We support your best interests in the divorce and advocate for your rights.

Why Our Experience Matters For Collaborative Divorce

Understanding what’s possible in a divorce comes with experience, and our legal team has it in spades. Our firm focuses on family law, and we have thorough knowledge of the nuances under the California Family Code. As your San Francisco collaborative divorce lawyer, we focus on what you want to get in the divorce settlement, and negotiate on your behalf to achieve it.

  • Firm founder Bernie J. Kempen is a Certified Family Law Specialist through the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization
  • Our firm proudly maintains a perfect 10.0 AVVO rating for excellence in family law representation
  • Attorney Bernie J. Kempen has been honored with the AVVO Client Choice Award and recognized as a Top Contributor
  • Dedicated to community involvement, Bernie has served as Past President of the Castro Valley Rotary and as Director of the Castro Valley Arts Foundation

Are you going through a divorce and want options that keep you out of court? Call Attorney Bernie today for a consultation.

Client Review

"Bernie and his team have been incredible! Always responsive, professional, and, most importantly, ethical. Bernie's recommendations are exactly what I would expect from a professional in this field. He does not want you wasting your money on something a judge won't ultimately approve in court. In my experience, his team has tried to save me money where they could. I highly recommend him and his team. They will put in the time and effort to ensure you are well represented!"
Devon Nieve
Client Review

San Francisco

1 Sansome Street
Suite 3500
San Francisco, CA 94104

(415) 688-2400

Modesto

1301 G Street
Suite A
Modesto, CA 95354

(415) 688-2400