Family Law Attorney in Sunland-Tujunga
Family law matters can be emotionally taxing and legally complex. From divorce and custody disputes to support issues, navigating these challenges requires the expertise of experienced legal guidance. In Sunland-Tujunga, attorney Michelle Choe provides knowledgeable and culturally sensitive family law representation tailored to the needs of her clients, especially those in the local Korean American community.
Do you need assistance in Korean for a family law-related matter?
Michelle Choe, who was born in Seoul and is fluent in Korean, is here to help. Click the button below to learn more about how she can assist you during this time.
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Areas of Practice
Ms. Choe handles a wide range of family law matters in Sunland-Tujunga, including:
- Divorce and Legal Separation
- Child Custody and Visitation
- Child Support and Spousal Support (Alimony)
- Division of Marital Property and Debts
- Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements
Each case is approached to preserve dignity, protect legal rights, and achieve outcomes that serve both short-term and long-term interests.
Understanding California Family Law
Several key principles guide California family law:
- No-Fault Divorce: In California, a divorce can be obtained without proof of wrongdoing. Spouses can cite "irreconcilable differences" without needing the other party’s agreement.
- Community Property: Assets and debts acquired during a marriage are generally split equally between spouses.
- Best Interests of the Child: In custody disputes, courts prioritize the child’s safety, stability, and emotional well-being.
Legal timelines and procedures can vary based on whether a case is contested or uncontested. For example, even in an uncontested divorce, California requires a six-month waiting period from the date of service before a marriage is legally dissolved.
Key Differences Between Korean and California Family Law
Ms. Choe’s fluency in Korean and deep understanding of Korean legal culture allow her to uniquely support clients who are more familiar with Korean law than U.S. law. Many members of the Korean-American community are unaware of the freedoms and protections California law provides, especially compared to the more conservative and restrictive divorce laws in Korea.
For example:
- In California, a spouse can file for divorce without the other spouse’s consent. In Korea, a mutual agreement is typically required.
- In California, property acquired during the marriage is divided equally regardless of which spouse earned more. In Korea, property division often depends on a spouse’s contribution to household labor.
- In California, custody decisions are based on a child’s best interest. In Korea, custody is often awarded based on traditional gender roles, with limited options for shared custody.
Ms. Choe frequently works with Korean-speaking clients who may not be aware of their legal rights under California law. Through one-on-one counsel, she helps clients understand what actions they can take to protect themselves and their children.
Answers to Important Family Law Questions
How long does it take to get a divorce in California?
At a minimum, six months must pass from the time the divorce petition is served. The process may take longer, depending on whether issues such as child custody, support, and property division can be resolved amicably or require court intervention.
Can someone file for custody without being married to the other parent?
Yes. Parentage (paternity) cases allow unmarried parents to seek legal custody, visitation, and child support orders. Establishing legal parentage is the first step in the process.
Is spousal support always required?
Not necessarily. Courts consider multiple factors, including the length of the marriage, income disparity, each spouse's earning capacity, and their respective contributions. Support may be temporary or long-term, depending on the situation.
What’s the difference between legal and physical custody?
Legal custody refers to decision-making authority (education, healthcare, religion), while physical custody refers to where the child lives. Both can be shared or granted exclusively to one parent.
How quickly are domestic violence restraining orders handled?
Temporary restraining orders (TROs) can often be obtained the same day a petition is filed. A court hearing for a long-term order is typically scheduled within 21 days.
Why Clients in Sunland-Tujunga Turn to Michelle Choe
Ms. Choe is recognized for delivering personalized, detail-oriented legal services that are rooted in empathy and legal expertise. With fluency in Korean and a culturally aware approach, she supports clients through some of the most difficult times in their lives. Her commitment is firm toward serving women and individuals in the Korean-American community who may not fully understand their rights under California law.
Schedule a Confidential Family Law Consultation
If you're facing divorce, custody issues, or any family law matter in Sunland-Tujunga, contact the Law Offices of Michelle Choe to schedule a confidential consultation. Ms. Choe is committed to protecting what matters most, especially when children are involved. With a steady focus on their best interests, she helps clients understand their rights, evaluate their options, and move forward with clarity and confidence.
