Commonly Asked Family Law Questions
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What is family law?Family law deals with legal issues related to family relationships, such as divorce, child custody, adoption, and domestic violence.
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Why should I hire a family law attorney?A family law attorney can provide legal guidance, support, and representation during a family law case. They can help you navigate the legal system and work towards a favorable outcome.
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What is the difference between a contested and uncontested divorce?A contested divorce is when the parties involved cannot agree on the terms of the divorce, such as division of assets and child custody. An uncontested divorce is when both parties agree on all terms of the divorce and can file jointly.
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Can I modify a child custody agreement?Yes, a child custody agreement can be modified if there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a relocation or a change in the child's needs.
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What is mediation in family law?Mediation is a process in which a neutral third party helps the parties involved in a family law case to reach a mutually acceptable resolution. It can be a less adversarial and less expensive alternative to going to court.
Our Satisfied Clients
Real Stories from Real People
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“Donna peacefully found ways to resolve these issues without remorse.”
- J.T.Donna and her staff are highly experienced/knowledgeable with family law. My case was complicated by child custody and divorce issues. For several years, my ex sought to always try and bring me back to court for mundane issues. Donna peacefully found ways to resolve these issues without remorse. I highly recommend Donna to anybody needing a qualified legal professional with a heart.
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“I would recommend him to anyone who needs a good attorney.”
- Molly C.I am lucky to have had Michael Mehas handle my family law child custody and visitation matter, personal injury, and business and employment matters, and he's the only attorney I've ever used. He's very compassionate in what he does and combines many years of experience with a great understanding of the law. I would recommend him to anyone who needs a good attorney.
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“If 10 stars had been a choice I would have given them 10 STARS.”
“If 10 stars had been a choice I would have given them 10 STARS.”- Paul R. -
“Donna guided me through at a comfortable pace on both a personal and professional level.”
- Phillip M.I was going through a difficult divorce, one which was stressful to both my wife and myself, so I needed to find solutions which would be fair and just and to relieve the tension. I was living in the Bay Area at the time and did much of the work on the phone, on my computer and at the Santo Mehas office in Ventura. I had heard of the reputation of the Santo Mehas law firm and trusted Donna as a person of integrity and sensitivity which is who I needed to get through this difficult process. I was not looking forward to working with the personal sensitive issues or the introspection necessary to get through this difficult process. Donna guided me through at a comfortable pace on both a personal and professional level. The case ended in a fair and respectable settlement for both parties and my ex and I are still friends years later. I am much happier for knowing that this is from a previous life and I have moved on. I still keep in contact with the family law lawyers at Santo Mehas as well as my ex.
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“I would definitely recommend their firm for anyone!”
The Santo Mehas team has been exceptional in handling my case. They are very experienced, have given me good advice and representation, and they have worked on my particularly complex case almost as if I were family. They have shown support beyond professionally, but also personally. They have worked with me financially, and are very fair and understanding. I would definitely recommend their firm for anyone who needs family law assistance!- Heather L. -
“They were prepared and ready for anything.”
“They were prepared and ready for anything.”- Madisen R. -
“They have been absolutely phenomenal”
“They have been absolutely phenomenal”- Dante H. -
“It is my opinion there's no better family law firm, period.”
“I had a very complicated and emotional interstate child custody case on which both Donna Santo and Michael Mehas provided me with expert legal advice to bring the matter to a positive conclusion.”- Nick C., director of The Notebook
