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.
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A conversation about your situation
Robin starts by listening to what is happening in your family and what matters most to you.
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A look at your options
You hear plain-spoken information about how California family law may apply and what paths are open.
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Time for your questions
Ask anything about the process, timing or next steps.
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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.
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Go to the State Bar of California attorney search and look up the attorney by name or bar number.
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Confirm the license status is active and review any public record of discipline.
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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.
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Check that the specialty listed is the area of law you need, such as Family Law.
Search for an attorney on the State Bar website
Learn about State Bar legal specialization
You can also read about Robin's certification as a Family Law Specialist.
Thinking about divorce?
See a simple checklist of the steps and papers involved in starting a divorce in California.
Ready to talk it through?
Request your free half-hour consultation and tell Robin about your situation.