Divorce, custody, adoption, and other family matters.
Family law cases in California include dissolution of marriage (the formal term for divorce), legal separation, child custody and visitation, child and spousal support, paternity, domestic-partnership dissolution, adoption, and domestic-violence restraining orders. California is a no-fault divorce state and a community-property state — both shape how property division and the grounds for divorce are typically handled in practice.
Practice in California ranges from short, mediated dissolutions to long-running contested matters involving high-asset estates, business interests, or complex custody questions across state lines. Common considerations when choosing an attorney include whether the lawyer is a Certified Family Law Specialist (a credential issued through the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization), mediation experience, courtroom comfort if litigation looks likely, and bilingual capacity. Many California family-law firms offer unbundled or limited-scope services for clients who only need help with specific filings.
General information only — not legal advice. Consult a licensed California attorney for guidance on your specific situation. Last reviewed 2026-05-18.
Mellman & Mellman
San Diego, California · 1 yrs experience
Stuart Lee Mellman is an attorney in San Diego, California, focusing on Family Law and Real Estate. They practice with Mellman & Mellman, LLP. Licensed by the Texas bar since 2025, Stuart brings 1 year of legal experience. The office is located at 600 W Broadway Ste 700, San Diego, California 92101-3370.
San Diego, California · 2 yrs experience
Sara H. Pagnotta is an attorney in San Diego, California, focusing on Criminal Defense, Family Law, and Immigration. Licensed by the Texas bar since 2024, Sara brings 2 years of legal experience.
The Law Office of Luemara Wagner
San Diego, California · 20 yrs experience
Luemara Aurora Wagner is an attorney in San Diego, California, focusing on Business Law, Family Law, Intellectual Property, and Immigration. They practice with The Law Office of Luemara Wagner. Licensed by the Texas bar since 2006, Luemara brings 20 years of legal experience. The office is located at PO Box 9482, San Diego, California 92169-0482.
BSS Legal
San Diego, California · 1 yrs experience
Cassandra Nicole Lelek Faulkner is a Family Law attorney based in San Diego, California. They practice with BSS Legal. Licensed by the Texas bar since 2025, Cassandra brings 1 year of legal experience. The office is located at 2667 Camino Del Rio South, Ste 108, San Diego, California 92101.
Mellman & Mellman
San Diego, California · 1 yrs experience
Juanita Guillen-Mellman is an attorney in San Diego, California, focusing on Family Law and Real Estate. They practice with Mellman & Mellman, LLP. Licensed by the Texas bar since 2025, Juanita brings 1 year of legal experience. The office is located at 600 W Broadway Ste 700, San Diego, California 92101-3370.
Antonyan Miranda
San Diego, California · 2 yrs experience
Yuliya Ryabchikova is a Family Law attorney based in San Diego, California. They practice with Bona Fide Law Firm, APC. Licensed by the Texas bar since 2024, Yuliya brings 2 years of legal experience. The office is located at 402 W Broadway, 21st FL, San Diego, California 92101.