Divorce and Family Law Blog | All American Law

Sep 22, 2026 Christine R. James

Can Child Support Arrears Be Dismissed in California?

Child support arrears are payments that became due but were not paid. In California, valid arrears generally do not disappear because a parent has financial problems or because the child has become an adult. However, there are situations where the balance may be corrected, reduced, or resolved. The attorneys at All American Law have over …

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Sep 18, 2026 Christine R. James

Paternity

How Do You Establish Paternity in California?

Establishing paternity—more broadly called legal parentage in California—determines who has the legal rights and responsibilities of a parent. When someone is not already recognized as a child’s legal parent, establishing parentage may be necessary before the court can issue orders addressing child custody, visitation, or child support. Depending on the circumstances, parentage may be established …

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When Can Grandparents Get Custody or Visitation Rights in California?

Sep 17, 2026 Christine R. James

Grandparent's Rights

When Can Grandparents Get Custody or Visitation Rights in California?

Grandparents can play an important role in a child’s life, but California law does not automatically give them custody or visitation rights. Parents generally have the right to decide who spends time with their children, and courts give significant weight to those parental rights. Still, California law allows grandparents to seek visitation in certain circumstances. …

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What Legal Standard Do California Courts Use in Move-Away Cases?

Sep 12, 2026 Christine R. James

Child Custody

What Legal Standard Do California Courts Use in Move-Away Cases?

A proposed relocation can create a difficult custody dispute when moving would significantly affect the other parent’s time with the child. California courts commonly refer to these disputes as move-away cases. The child’s best interests are central to the court’s analysis, but the legal standard is not identical in every case. Whether the parents currently …

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Sep 08, 2026 Christine R. James

Divorce

How to Cancel/Stop a Divorce in California

Filing for divorce doesn’t automatically end your marriage. In some cases, spouses reconcile or have a change of heart about pursuing a divorce. In these cases, California law allows you to stop the proceedings before they are finalized. Reasons Why Couples Might Want to Stop or Pause a Divorce Couples change course on a filed …

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Aug 26, 2026 Christine R. James

Divorce

10 Risk Factors for Divorce

Divorce can happen for many reasons. In most cases, there is not one single event that causes a marriage to end. Instead, problems may build over months or years. Risk factors do not mean that divorce is certain. Many couples face serious problems and remain together. If divorce becomes likely, understanding these issues can …

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Can My Child Choose Which Parent to Live With in California?

Jul 29, 2026 Christine R. James

Child Custody

Can My Child Choose Which Parent to Live With in California?

This is one of the most common questions parents ask during a child custody case in California. A lot of people believe there’s a specific age when a child gets to make the call, but that’s not how the law actually works. No child in California has the legal authority to choose which parent they …

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What Is the Difference Between Divorce and Legal Separation in California?

Jul 10, 2026 Christine R. James

Family Law

What Is the Difference Between Divorce and Legal Separation in California?

Couples considering ending their relationship often wonder whether they should file for divorce or legal separation. There are some very important legal differences between the two. Understanding these differences can help you make the best decision for your future. Keep reading below to learn everything you need to know about divorce versus legal separation in …

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Christine James Earns Certification as a Family Law Specialist From the State Bar of California

Jun 10, 2026 Christine R. James

Firm News

Christine James Earns Certification as a Family Law Specialist From the State Bar of California

All American Law is proud to announce that attorney Christine James has been certified as a Family Law Specialist by the State Bar of California. This designation recognizes attorneys with extensive knowledge, experience, and skill in family law. When dealing with a family law matter, choosing the right lawyer is important. Family law issues often …

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What’s the Difference Between Legal Custody and Physical Custody?

Jun 08, 2026 Christine R. James

Child Custody

What’s the Difference Between Legal Custody and Physical Custody?

Parents involved in a custody dispute often hear the terms “legal custody” and “physical custody.” Although the terms sound similar, they refer to different parts of raising and caring for a child. Understanding the difference can help parents better prepare for custody discussions and court proceedings. In California, courts focus on creating custody arrangements that …

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