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San Diego Divorce Lawyers You Can Trust
Divorce is one of the most life-altering legal processes. At Livingstone Law, we bring 30 years of litigation experience to every divorce case — from amicable settlements to aggressive litigation. Whether your case involves real estate, children, or high-value assets, our board-certified team is here to protect your future.
How to Overcome a Negative Family Court Services (FCS) Report?
Even with careful preparation, a parent can receive an unfavorable Family Court Services (FCS) report before their custody hearing. Litigants should speak to an experienced attorney to get the best recommendation possible; however, a mediator may misquote you, misunderstand your concerns, or recommend a parenting plan that does not serve your child’s best interests.
San Diego Property Division Lawyers for High-Asset Divorce Cases
Dividing property in a divorce isn't just about fairness — it's about protecting your financial future. At Livingstone Law, we help clients preserve their homes, businesses, investments, and retirement accounts during divorce through meticulous legal strategy and negotiation.
Why should I hire A Laywer When I Can use ChatGPT?
Why Litigants Should Trust Lawyers, Not AI: Understanding the Critical Difference Between Legal Information and Legal Representation
How to Find Money in Your Spouse's Profit and Loss Statement
As a special master for add-backs in California family law cases, I have witnessed countless situations where self-employed spouses attempt to minimize their income available for support by writing off personal expenses through their business. Many fail to understand that the rules governing business deductions for family law purposes fundamentally differ from Internal Revenue Service regulations.
The Perils of Online Legal Advice and Strategic Micromanagement
The internet is flooded with generic legal advice, template documents, and step-by-step guides that promise to help individuals manage their legal matters. While some of this information may be accurate in general terms, legal issues are rarely straightforward, and what works in one case may be completely inappropriate in another.
Spoliation of Evidence
My Spouse is Hiding and Destroying Electronic Evidence. What Should I Do?
Can My Teen Child Choose Which Parent They Want to Live With?
There is a common misconception that once a child reaches a certain age, they get to choose where they live and how often they see the other parent.
Do You Really Need a Divorce Attorney in California? Here’s Why the Answer Is Usually Yes
Divorce is rarely easy—even when it’s amicable. In California, where community property laws and nuanced custody standards apply, navigating divorce without professional guidance can lead to costly, life-changing mistakes. If you’re reading this blog, we know you’re asking: Do I really need a divorce attorney?
What is the Role and Responsibility of a Guardian Ad Litem
A guardian ad litem (GAL) in family cases is an officer of the court appointed to represent the best interests of individuals who are unable to represent themselves, such as minor children and incapacitated individuals.
How Can Your “Date of Separation” in Your California Divorce Impact The Outcome of Your Case?
If you’re considering divorce in California, one of the most important concepts to understand is the date of separation. This date can have a major impact on your legal rights—particularly when it comes to dividing property and debts.
What Happens If a Parent Refuses to Return Your Child After an International Visit?
If you are a California parent facing an international custody dispute, especially after a co-parent refuses to return your child from overseas, you're not alone.
Should I Allow the Other Parent to Travel Internationally with Our Child?
Are you considering international travel for your child with the other parent? It’s a question many separated or divorced parents face, especially in a world where relatives, opportunities, or work can often take a parent overseas.
Vera Livingstone has served the San Diego Court as a Special Master for 20 years
Under California law, the appointment of a special master in family court proceedings is governed by statutory authority and procedural guidelines.
We are pleased to announce the addition of Bryanna Brandalesi DiRocco to our firm as Senior Attorney.
Bryanna Brandalesi DiRocco brings nearly a decade of family law experience to her role as a senior attorney at Livingstone Law. She is known for her practical, solution-focused approach to resolving complex family law issues.
How Does the California Court Calculate Temporary Child and Spousal Support?
The history of temporary child support and spousal support in California reflects a balance between legislative mandates, judicial discretion, and federal compliance.
A Court Can Deny a Temporary Restraining Order Even When There is Evidence of Past Abuse In Some Circumstances
A recent appellate case makes it clear that even where there is past abuse, the Court can reasonably conclude that a Temporary Restraining Order may not be necessary to protect the petitioner.
The Role and Responsibilities of Minor’s Counsel
An attorney for minor children is sometimes appointed to represent the best interests of a child in custody, visitation, or other family law proceedings.
Is Violating the standard ATROs ever justified?
Automatic Temporary Restraining Orders (ATROs) are standard orders issued in California family law proceedings, such as dissolution of marriage, legal separation, or nullity.
Tools for Collecting on a Family Law Judgment – Debtor’s Exams
If a litigant owes money to the other party for overdue child or spousal support, attorneys' fees, or an unpaid equalizing payment, it may appear that the money is uncollectible; however, there are steps you can take.