Santa Clara County Family Lawyers

They might, in fact, need them before they’re even married. Not all family lawyers in Santa Clara County are the same. Some, like Laughlin Legal, are particularly skilled at helping engaged couples have the sometimes difficult conversations that will prepare them for a more transparent life together. This is the value of a prenuptial agreement, a legal document signed by the couple before they are married that establishes expectations regarding the rights to property, income, inheritance, children, and debts. Caitlin Ashton, Partner at Laughlin Legal, believes that anyone getting married should “speak with a family law attorney to understand the state rules and discuss what could happen, worst case, if you were to divorce or separate.”

Newly married couples may want to speak with a family law attorney with a sub-specialty in estate planning about developing a plan to protect their joint life together including the drafting of a will, power of attorney, advance directive, etc. Lucas Pastuszka, estate planning attorney at Laughlin Legal, is of the opinion that “An estate plan is a gift you give to your family that creates a smooth transition after your death.”

Married residents may also need to speak with a family law attorney if they want to establish paternity, adopt a child, or appoint a guardian for a child. In the state of California, if it’s in the child’s best interest, it’s possible with the help of family law attorneys in Santa Clara County, specifically, a child custody lawyer, adoption lawyer, or guardianship lawyer, like Kristen Van Antwerp at Laughlin Legal. Kristen believes, “There are so many kids who want and need love and support. Getting them into a family where that can happen can make all the difference in that child’s life.”