Simi Family Law - Mediation and Litigation Services
Trusted legal guidance for divorce and family disputes
PRACTICE AREAS
Uncontested Divorce
An uncontested divorce is the most efficient and cost-effective path to ending a marriage. This process occurs when both spouses agree on all major issues, including property division, debt allocation, and (if applicable) child-related matters. We will meticulously draft and review your settlement agreement to ensure your rights are protected and that the paperwork is filed correctly, allowing you to finalize your divorce without the stress and expense of a courtroom battle.
Contested Divorce
When spouses cannot reach an agreement on key issues, a contested divorce is necessary. These cases involve complex negotiations, discovery processes, and, if required, courtroom litigation. We provide aggressive representation designed to protect your interests regarding assets, debts, and family dynamics. We will stand by your side through every hearing and motion, ensuring your voice is heard and your goals are aggressively pursued.
Child Custody (Parenting Plans)
A child’s well-being is the court’s primary concern, and it should be yours as well. We focus on securing parenting plans (legal and physical custody) that serve your child's best interests while protecting your parental rights. Whether negotiating a shared parenting schedule or litigating a relocation or modification case, we build strategies that prioritize stability, safety, and the emotional health of your children.
Child Support
Child support is a critical financial tool designed to maintain a child’s standard of living after a separation. We assist with the calculation of support based on state guidelines, ensuring that all income sources (including bonuses, commissions, and self-employment earnings) are properly accounted for. We also handle modifications to support orders when financial circumstances or parental roles change, ensuring the support is fair and sustainable for all parties.
Property Division
Dividing a lifetime of assets and debts is often one of the most contentious aspects of a divorce. We provide clear, data-driven analysis to ensure the equitable distribution of real estate, bank accounts, investments, businesses, and personal property. We work to uncover hidden assets and value complex properties so that you receive your fair share of the marital estate.
Retirement Division
Retirement accounts (such as 401(k)s, pensions, and IRAs) are often the largest marital assets. Dividing these funds requires specialized legal knowledge. we ensure that your long-term financial security is protected.
Mediation
Take Control of Your Divorce with Mediation
At the heart of our practice is a simple belief: you should stay in the driver's seat when shaping your family's future. Molly A. Kramer, a skilled family law mediator, guides you and your spouse through constructive, solution-focused conversations so you can reach mutually agreeable terms without stepping foot in a courtroom.
Why choose mediation?
- Preserves relationships – Reduces conflict and emotional strain compared to traditional litigation.
- Saves money – Mediation costs significantly less than hiring two separate attorneys for a contested divorce.
- Keeps you in control – You and your spouse make the final decisions, not a judge.
How it works:
Both parties must agree to participate in mediation together and retain the mediator jointly. Important to note: if mediation does not result in a full settlement, the mediator will not represent either party in any subsequent litigation. This ensures the process remains neutral, fair, and focused on resolution.
Litigation
- How we advocate for you: Our attorneys guide you through every stage of the litigation process with clarity and strategic counsel. We prepare your case thoroughly, handle all court filings and deadlines, negotiate aggressively when settlement opportunities arise, and present a compelling case at trial if necessary. Throughout, we keep you informed, protect your legal rights, and work diligently to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family.
- Pleadings – The process begins with filing and responding to legal documents that outline each party's positions and requests.
- Discovery – Both sides exchange financial records, tax returns, property valuations, and other relevant documents. This phase may also include depositions, where parties and witnesses answer questions under oath.
- Motions and hearings – Attorneys may file pre-trial motions to resolve specific issues early, such as temporary support or parenting schedules. These motions are decided by a judge at scheduled hearings.
- Trial – If settlement remains out of reach, your case proceeds to trial. Both parties present evidence, call witnesses, and make legal arguments before a judge, who then issues a binding ruling on all unresolved issues.
- Judgment – The court enters a final divorce decree that legally ends the marriage and dictates the terms of custody, support, and property division.
Why Choose Us
Most Family Law mediators are not attorneys. Most family law attorneys do not specialize in mediation.
We are the rare combination: a practicing family law attorney who has chosen to focus primarily on mediation. That means when you sit down with us, you are getting strategic legal insight without the pressure of a courtroom battle. We know what a judge would likely do in your situation, and we use that knowledge to help you craft a better, more customized solution.
At the same time, our ethical commitment to neutrality means we do not represent either party if mediation fails. This protects the integrity of the process and ensures both sides can participate openly and honestly.
One clear process. Your future, designed by you.
Ready for your free consultation?
Let’s talk. We will evaluate your situation, explain whether mediation is the right fit for your family, and help you move forward with confidence.
Call Molly Kramer, Esq.
(805) 584-9000
Contact Us
Schedule a free Consultation (805) 584-9000
Location: 5775 E. Los Angeles Ave., Suite 228, Simi Valley CA 93065.
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Law Offices of Molly A. Kramer
Hours
Open today | 09:00 am – 05:00 pm |
