Getting started

A little preparation helps you make the most of your free half-hour consultation. Here is what to gather, what to expect and how to check an attorney's credentials.

What to bring

Bring what you have. If something is missing, come anyway; you can gather it afterward.

Court papers

Anything you have been served with or have filed, including petitions, summonses, orders and hearing notices.

Existing agreements

Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements, marital settlement agreements, and any prior custody or support orders.

Financial records

Recent pay stubs, tax returns, bank and retirement statements, and a list of major debts and property.

Information about your children

Names, birth dates and your current schedule, so you can talk through custody and visitation.

Your questions

Write down what worries you most so nothing is forgotten during your half hour.

What to expect

The first consultation is a free half hour. It is a chance to tell your story, ask questions and decide whether Robin is the right fit for your family.

  • A conversation about your situation

    Robin starts by listening to what is happening in your family and what matters most to you.

  • A look at your options

    You hear plain-spoken information about how California family law may apply and what paths are open.

  • Time for your questions

    Ask anything about the process, timing or next steps.

  • Complete confidentiality

    All inquiries are strictly confidential.

How to check an attorney's certification

The State Bar of California keeps a public record of every licensed attorney. You can verify any attorney, including Robin, in a few minutes.

  1. Go to the State Bar of California attorney search and look up the attorney by name or bar number.

  2. Confirm the license status is active and review any public record of discipline.

  3. Look for the Certified Specialist designation. Only attorneys certified by the State Bar, or by a State Bar-accredited organization, may advertise as certified specialists.

  4. Check that the specialty listed is the area of law you need, such as Family Law.

Thinking about divorce?

See a simple checklist of the steps and papers involved in starting a divorce in California.

View divorce checklist

Ready to talk it through?

Request your free half-hour consultation and tell Robin about your situation.