Family Law Services in La Crescenta-Montrose, California 

Family law matters such as divorce, custody, and child support can be among the most emotionally and legally challenging experiences in a person’s life. During these deeply personal times, it’s essential to have a knowledgeable attorney who provides not only skilled representation but also genuine support. The Law Office of Michelle Choe offers experienced and compassionate legal services to individuals and families in La Crescenta-Montrose and the surrounding areas. 


Michelle Choe is committed to helping clients navigate difficult transitions with clarity, confidence, and dignity. She listens closely, works strategically, and provides guidance that always keeps her client’s rights and well-being at the forefront.


Understanding Family Law in California 

For many Korean-speaking clients, California’s family law system can feel confusing, especially when compared to legal norms in Korea. In Korea, divorce often requires mutual agreement, and fault (such as infidelity) can carry legal consequences, including lawsuits against third parties.

 

California law is quite different. In the United States, divorce is based on a no-fault system, meaning that one spouse can file for divorce without needing the other’s consent or proving wrongdoing. Infidelity and blame generally do not impact custody or asset division. Unfortunately, many in the Korean community remain unaware of these legal rights and may feel stuck in unhappy or even harmful marriages due to misinformation.


Born in Seoul and fluent in Korean, Ms. Choe understands both systems and is uniquely positioned to help clients bridge that gap. Her mission is to educate, empower, and guide members of the Korean and broader La Crescenta-Montrose communities through every step of their family law case with cultural sensitivity and legal precision. 


한국어로 가족법 관련 도움이 필요하신가요? 아래 버튼을 클릭하여 Michelle Choe 법률 사무소의 도움을 자세히 알아보세요.

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Types of Family Law Cases the Offices of Michelle Choe Handles 

Ms. Choe provides representation in a wide range of family law matters, including but not limited to: 


Divorce and Legal Separation 

Divorce is never easy, but Ms. Choe helps her clients manage this transition with practical solutions and steadfast support. Whether the case involves simple agreements or complex financial matters, such as business ownership, high-value assets, or retirement plans, she ensures that each client’s interests are protected. 


Property Division 

California is a community property state, which means that marital assets are typically divided equally. Ms. Choe works closely with clients to identify, evaluate, and divide assets, including real estate, investment accounts, business interests, and pensions. Her goal is a fair resolution that supports long-term stability.


Child Custody and Parenting Time 

In custody matters, Ms. Choe prioritizes the best interests of children. She advocates for custody and visitation arrangements that reflect the best interests of the child while protecting her client’s parental rights. She works to build parenting plans that reduce conflict and promote healthy family dynamics. 


Child Support and Spousal Support 

Financial matters are a critical part of many family law cases. Ms. Choe assists clients in determining appropriate child support and spousal support arrangements that reflect each party’s income, needs, and legal responsibilities. 

personalized Legal Solutions for Your Family’s Needs

Every family law case is different. Ms. Choe takes the time to understand her client’s unique situations and develops tailored strategies that work toward a respectful and fair resolution. Her approach is grounded in compassion but backed by a deep understanding of and preparation for the law. 


In many cases, amicable agreements can be reached through mediation or negotiation. However, when peaceful solutions are not possible, Ms. Choe is fully prepared to litigate aggressively on her client’s behalf. Her courtroom experience ensures that clients are well-represented, no matter how complex or contested the case becomes. 

Why Clients in La Crescenta-Montrose Choose Michelle Choe

Ms. Choe is known for her integrity, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to her clients. She provides: 

  • Bilingual legal support (English and Korean) 
  • Personalized attention and responsive communication 
  • Deep knowledge of both California law and Korean cultural expectations 
  • Strong advocacy in and out of court 


Whether through careful negotiation or firm litigation, Ms. Choe remains focused on one goal: helping her clients move forward with security and peace of mind. 


Facing a family law issue? Get the support and guidance you deserve and call the Law Office of Michelle Choe today. 

  • Can I get a divorce if my spouse doesn't agree?

    Yes, you can get a divorce in California even if your spouse doesn't agree to it because California is a “no-fault” divorce state. 

  • How can I protect my assets in a divorce?

    California is a community property state. This means that generally, all assets and debts acquired during the marriage are owned equally by both spouses. In a divorce, these are typically divided 50/50. Prenuptial Agreement, a contract created before marriage that outlines how assets will be divided in case of divorce can protect assets you owned before the marriage or inheritances you expect to receive. Also, assets owned before the marriage, gifts, and inheritances received during the marriage are generally considered separate property and are not subject to division.  

  • What is spousal support (alimony), and how is it determined?

    It's intended to help the lower-earning spouse maintain the standard of living they enjoyed during the marriage, especially if they have sacrificed their career or education for the family. The Court considers various factors outlined in Family Code Section 4320, including the standard of living, earning capacity, duration of the marriage, age and health, etc. 

  • What factors are considered in determining child custody and visitation?

    When determining child custody and visitation in California, the court's primary concern is always the best interests of the child. To make this determination, the court considers a variety of factors, as outlined in California Family Code Section 3011, including the Child's Health and Safety, the Child's Relationship with Each Parent, the Ability of Each Parent to Provide Care, Parental Fitness, etc. 

  • How can I modify an existing child custody or child support order?

    Modifying an existing child custody or child support order in California requires demonstrating a significant change in circumstances since the last order was issued. Child Custody: A change in the child's needs, a parent's circumstances (e.g., relocation, change in work schedule), or concerns about the child's safety or well-being may warrant a modification. Child Support: Changes in either parent's income, the child's needs (e.g., increased medical expenses), or the custody arrangement can justify a modification. 

Case Review


Take the next step—request a consultation today.

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Case Review


Take the next step—request a consultation today.

Contact Us

  • Can I get a divorce if my spouse doesn't agree?

    Yes, you can get a divorce in California even if your spouse doesn't agree to it because California is a “no-fault” divorce state. 

  • How can I protect my assets in a divorce?

    California is a community property state. This means that generally, all assets and debts acquired during the marriage are owned equally by both spouses. In a divorce, these are typically divided 50/50. Prenuptial Agreement, a contract created before marriage that outlines how assets will be divided in case of divorce can protect assets you owned before the marriage or inheritances you expect to receive. Also, assets owned before the marriage, gifts, and inheritances received during the marriage are generally considered separate property and are not subject to division.  

  • What is spousal support (alimony), and how is it determined?

    It's intended to help the lower-earning spouse maintain the standard of living they enjoyed during the marriage, especially if they have sacrificed their career or education for the family. The Court considers various factors outlined in Family Code Section 4320, including the standard of living, earning capacity, duration of the marriage, age and health, etc. 

  • What factors are considered in determining child custody and visitation?

    When determining child custody and visitation in California, the court's primary concern is always the best interests of the child. To make this determination, the court considers a variety of factors, as outlined in California Family Code Section 3011, including the Child's Health and Safety, the Child's Relationship with Each Parent, the Ability of Each Parent to Provide Care, Parental Fitness, etc. 

  • How can I modify an existing child custody or child support order?

    Modifying an existing child custody or child support order in California requires demonstrating a significant change in circumstances since the last order was issued. Child Custody: A change in the child's needs, a parent's circumstances (e.g., relocation, change in work schedule), or concerns about the child's safety or well-being may warrant a modification. Child Support: Changes in either parent's income, the child's needs (e.g., increased medical expenses), or the custody arrangement can justify a modification. 

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Take the next step—request a consultation today.

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