Litigation and Family Law Disputes

Throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, the San Francisco family law attorneys at Lerner · Poole, LLP engage in litigation to protect the rights and interests of clients involved in a custody battle, support, property division issue, or other matters in a divorce.

Frequently, the level of conflict and duration of the litigation depends upon the parties and their respective attorneys' ability to navigate through the emotional quagmire and present their client's case to the judge, who makes the final decision if the parties cannot negotiate a settlement.  As the client, you must identify the goals you wish to achieve from the process.  Do you want primary custody of the children or visitation rights?  How much spousal support do you need to receive or expect to pay?  What aspects of the property division are most important to you?  With these goals in mind, your attorney can work with you devise the most appropriate strategies to achieve those ends.

Per the Family Law Code, the divorcing parties are required to list income, expenses, assets, and liabilities early on in the case.  We engage in the process of discovery to identify and clarify the opposing party's assets and liabilities as well as other relevant information.  Discovery includes depositions, production of documents, interrogatories, and subpoenaing bank statements and business records.  Real estate valuations, business valuations, psychological reports, and vocational evaluations may also be necessary.  After discovery is completed, we prepare for trial and assess whether a settlement of all or part of the disputed issues is possible.

While we advocate the use of collaborative law and mediation as the preferable means of dispute resolution whenever suitable, we understand the role litigation may play in determining that a divorce or other family law matter in San Francisco is resolved fairly and effectively.  Sometimes the level of conflict is so high that a formal courtroom setting is the most appropriate location to dispose of the issues necessary to dissolve a marriage.  In these cases, our lawyers will fight for your best interests and never let you get taken advantage of.  

If you are involved in a dispute requiring the assistance of an experienced family or 

 litigator, contact Lerner · Poole, LLP for professional legal representation or call us today at 415-692-5597.