haslamperrilawfirm

How much does a family law attorney cost in Ontario, CA?

At Haslam Perri Law Firm, we offer a free initial consultation with no cost and no obligation. Attorney fees vary based on the complexity of your case — whether it is an uncontested divorce, contested child custody matter, or high-asset property division. Call us at 909-321-2223 to discuss your specific situation and we will clearly explain your options and estimated costs.

How long does a divorce take in California?

California has a mandatory 6-month waiting period before a divorce can be finalized — meaning no California divorce can be completed in less than six months. An uncontested divorce where both parties agree on all issues can be finalized relatively quickly after the waiting period ends. A contested divorce — where parties dispute property, custody, or support — can take one to three years or longer. Mediation and collaborative law can significantly reduce the timeline and cost.

Do I need a board-certified family law specialist?

Board-certified family law specialists represent the top 1% of California family law attorneys — attorneys who have demonstrated exceptional knowledge, experience, and ethical standards as recognized by the California State Bar Board of Legal Specialization. While any licensed attorney can handle family law cases, a board-certified specialist brings a higher level of expertise to complex matters involving property division, child custody, and support. Donald Glen Haslam of Haslam Perri Law Firm is board-certified in family law.

Is California a community property state?

Yes. California is a community property state — meaning all assets and debts acquired during the marriage generally belong equally to both spouses and must be divided 50/50 in a divorce. Separate property — assets owned before marriage or received as gifts or inheritance — is not subject to division. However, the lines between community and separate property can become complex over time. Our attorneys ensure every asset is properly characterized and fairly divided.

What is the difference between legal separation and divorce in California?

A legal separation allows spouses to live apart and resolve financial issues without terminating the marriage — meaning neither spouse can remarry. A divorce permanently ends the marriage. Legal separation may be preferable when spouses want to retain healthcare benefits, file joint tax returns, maintain Social Security eligibility, or have religious objections to divorce. California has no residency requirement for legal separation — unlike divorce, which requires six months of state residency.

What does 'best interests of the child' mean in California?

The best interests of the child is the legal standard California courts use to make all child custody and visitation decisions. Judges consider the child's health, safety, and welfare; each parent's relationship with the child; the child's ties to school, community, and extended family; any history of domestic violence or substance abuse; and — for older children — the child's own stated preferences. At Haslam Perri Law Firm, we build every custody case around this standard.

How is child support calculated in California?

California uses the Dissomaster formula — a state-mandated software program — to calculate guideline child support. The formula considers both parents' gross monthly income, the percentage of time each parent spends with the child, tax filing status, health insurance costs, childcare expenses, and other allowable deductions. Courts are required to follow the guideline amount in most cases. Our attorneys ensure the formula is applied with accurate, complete financial data — protecting your child's interests.

Can I modify a child custody or support order after divorce?

Yes. Either parent can petition San Bernardino Superior Court to modify a custody or support order when there has been a material change in circumstances — such as a significant income change, job loss, relocation, a change in the child's needs, or a change in parenting time. Modifications are not automatic and require a formal court order. Our attorneys handle post-judgment modifications throughout San Bernardino County and Riverside County.