Best Family Law Firm in Santa Clarita – Divorce, Custody, and Support Experts | The Reape-Rickett Law Firm
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Thank you, Santa Clarita, for voting The Reape-Rickett Law Firm the Best Family Law Firm for the fifth year in a row. As the Santa Clarita Valley’s largest family law firm, and the only firm to earn this distinction, we greatly appreciate your continued support and confidence in the services and support we provide to our clients and our community.
About The Reape-Rickett Law Firm: A Trusted Partner in California Family Law
Since our founding over twenty years ago, The Reape-Rickett Law Firm has witnessed and experienced rapid growth in our community. In unison with the expansion of our valley, our office has also grown, expanding to include new locations in Calabasas and Westlake Village, and offering additional family law services to serve the increasingly diverse needs of our clients.
As our offices and staff grow, we remain committed to our mission statement of providing caring service that fits the unique and individual needs of our clients. Whether the family law matter involves:
- Divorce
- Legal separation
- Paternity cases
- Mediation services
- Child support
- Spousal support (alimony)
- Child custody and visitation rights
- Domestic violence restraining orders
- Division of property under California’s community property laws
- Grandparent’s rights
Our team of attorneys and highly trained staff is resolved to empower clients with the knowledge, legal guidance, and resources they need to make the best decisions for themselves and their families.
Understanding Family Law in California: Your Rights, Options, and the Legal Landscape
Family law in California is governed by the California Family Code and shaped by precedent-setting case law. Here’s what you need to know:
Divorce & Legal Separation: What’s the Difference?
Under California Family Code S2310, California allows for no-fault divorce, meaning neither spouse needs to prove wrongdoing. Legal separation, governed by Family Code S2345, allows couples to address custody and financial issues without formally ending the marriage.
Key legal forms:
- FL-100: Petition for Dissolution (Divorce) or Legal Separation.
- FL-110: Summons.
Child Custody and Visitation: Prioritizing the Best Interests of the Child
California courts, per Family Code S3040, prioritize the best interests of the child when determining custody. Considerations include:
- Each parent’s ability to provide care.
- History of domestic violence (Family Code S3044).
- Substance abuse issues.
Case Law Example: In re Marriage of Burgess (1996) established that a custodial parent may relocate unless it harms the child’s welfare.
Key form:
- FL-300: Request for Order (for custody or visitation changes).
Spousal and Child Support: Financial Security for Families
- Spousal support is determined under Family Code S4320, considering income, length of marriage, and standard of living.
- Child support uses the statewide guideline calculator (Family Code S4055).
Form:
- FL-150: Income and Expense Declaration.
Property Division: Navigating Community Property Laws
California is a community property state (Family Code S760), meaning assets and debts acquired during marriage are presumed shared. Common property disputes involve:
- Tracing separate property.
- Business valuations.
- Dividing retirement accounts (QDROs).
Domestic Violence and Restraining Orders
Victims of domestic violence can seek protection through Temporary Restraining Orders (TROs) and Permanent Restraining Orders under Family Code S6200 et seq.
Key forms:
- DV-100: Request for Domestic Violence Restraining Order.
- DV-110: Temporary Restraining Order.
Grandparents’ Rights: Visitation and Legal Standing
Under Family Code S3100-3105, grandparents may petition for visitation in cases such as:
- Parent’s death.
- Pre-existing bond with the child.
- Parental divorce or separation.
Case Law Example: Troxel v. Granville (U.S. Supreme Court, 2000) clarified limits on grandparents’ visitation rights.
Local Resources for Family Law Support in Santa Clarita
- Santa Clarita Courthouse
- California Courts Self-Help Center
- California State Bar
- Domestic Violence Support
- Santa Clarita Legal Aid Foundation
Meet Our Attorneys: Legal Expertise You Can Trust
At The Reape-Rickett Law Firm, our team is led by experienced family law attorneys:
- James P. Reape – Managing Shareholder
- David E. Rickett – Co-Founder (1966-2016)
Each attorney is a member of the California Bar Association and holds decades of experience in family law. Our firm’s legal team has successfully represented clients in complex cases, from high-asset divorces to child custody battles.
FAQs: California Family Law Questions Answered
How do I file for divorce in California?
Start by filing FL-100 (Petition) and FL-110 (Summons) with your county courthouse. You’ll also need to serve your spouse and complete financial disclosures.
What’s the difference between legal and physical custody?
Legal custody refers to decision-making authority, while physical custody concerns where the child lives.
Can I modify a child custody order?
Yes. File FL-300 (Request for Order) to seek modifications based on a change in circumstances.
What is a QDRO?
A Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) allows for the division of retirement accounts during divorce without tax penalties.
What are California’s spousal support factors?
Per Family Code S4320, courts consider income, earning capacity, marriage duration, age, health, and standard of living.
Ready to Take the Next Step? Contact The Reape-Rickett Law Firm
If you are facing a family law issue in Santa Clarita, Calabasas, Westlake Village, or surrounding areas, The Reape-Rickett Law Firm is here to help. Our attorneys are ready to listen, advocate, and guide you through every step of the legal process.
Visit us at The Reape-Rickett Law Firm
