The Dangers of Handling Your Own San Diego Divorce
Posted by Shana Black in Divorce / Family Law on May 15, 2012
Even with experienced lawyers on your side, a San Diego divorce can become chaotic. Divorcing San Diego couples often disagree on child custody, alimony payments, and the division of their estate. When such disagreements occur, a San Diego divorce attorney can help you make sense of these overwhelming decisions, while still protecting your assets and your loved ones. Yet each year, divorcing San Diego couples are tempted by promises of a quick and economical divorce and choose to handle their own divorces without a San Diego divorce attorney present. Sadly, the results are often disastrous.
There are many dangers associated with handling your own San Diego divorce, and mistakes during this process can adversely affect your entire future. Here are just a few of the mistakes couples make when they attempt to handle their own San Diego divorce.
• Mislabeling custody
• Mistakes filing divorce paperwork
• Inappropriate distribution of assets
• Failing to handle life insurance adequately
• Failure to request resumption of maiden name
• Mishandling of retirement account distributions
• And more
While some mistakes simply result in higher fees, penalties, and increased paperwork, other mistakes can adversely affect your entire future. Failure to properly distribute your estate or the mishandling of your retirement account can cause you to be cheated out of funds and assets that are rightfully yours. When it comes to child support, child custody agreements, and parenting plans, you may also be cheated out of time with your children. In addition, you may find that your mistake caused you to incorrectly give up parenting rights you did not wish to relinquish.
A San Diego Divorce Attorney Can Help You Minimize Costs
There are numerous ways an experienced San Diego divorce attorney can help you minimize your legal costs and quickly reach a divorce agreement with your spouse. By preparing all of your divorce documents and agreements, your San Diego divorce lawyer can help ensure that all of your divorce paperwork is done correctly, helping you avoid potential fees and penalties. In addition, your San Diego divorce lawyer will fight for your family’s future and ensure that all of your rights are protected throughout the entire divorce process.
If you are going through a San Diego divorce, it is important to choose a San Diego divorce attorney to represent you throughout the divorce process. San Diego divorce lawyer Shana Black has successfully represented numerous San Diego divorcing individuals and their families throughout the divorce process. Call 1-619-557-0122 or email info@shanablack.com to learn more about all of your San Diego divorce options.
San Diego Attorney’s Pro Bono Obligation
Posted by Shana Black in Uncategorized on May 4, 2012
Did you know attorneys have an ethical and professional obligation to perform pro bono work on behalf of the poor who would otherwise have no access to the legal system?
From one of my favorite pro bono cases, adventures and all…I actually received an award from the San Diego Volunteer Lawyer Program created especially for me “Attorney Most Likely to be Chased by an Opposing Party.”
“Several years ago I fled an abusive husband who had brought me to San Diego from Canada, was homeless and living in domestic violence shelters, could not obtain employment as I had no work visa or citizenship status at all. To make matters worse, my husband was trying to obtain custody of my baby daughter.
It was a hopeless situation that I could not see my way out of until I met Shana Black, and retained her as my attorney free of charge on a strictly volunteer basis! Little did Shana know that being my attorney would get her stalked and harassed relentlessly, slandered, and even led on a high speed chase down the freeway!
She never once said “ok, maybe you should find another attorney.” She stuck by me and fought my abusive ex husband with every bit of legal might she possessed, no matter how much abuse he flung her way, and it was a lot, it was intense, and it was never ending. If it were not for her I would have never gotten out of that situation with my daughter or my sanity.”
For the assistance of a San Diego Attorney, please contact Shana J. Black at (619) 557-0122 for a case assessment.
San Diego Child Custody Client Testimonial
Posted by Shana Black in Uncategorized on May 1, 2012
“12 years ago I became a mom, and my daughter has been a true blessing; however the on going battle with her father has been emotionally and financially draining. My exhusband is mentally, verbally and physically abusive to me and our child. He started physically abusing our child again and I knew I really had to fight with everything I have and make sure this is the END of the abuse. I was blessed to find Shana Black who understood that I was scared, emotionally hurt and at my last straw. She immediately advised me of my rights via phone BEFORE the retainer and she walked me through what to do before she and I sit down to meet. The first time I met her, I instantly knew she was the perfect lawyer to represent me. I was very eager to have her representing me in this 12 year battle. I have never felt so calm, and secure with an attorney on this case, and I have had a few. In my opinion none of the lawyers knew the law to the extent of Shana. She seriously knows the law and is not afraid to do the extra work to make sure justice is served. Shana has handled civil cases and child custody cases and I think that is what gives her more of an edge on things. I have referred a family friend to her and he is now being represented by her and he will agree that she is a true blessing for him and his kids. I urge everyone who truly loves their children to seek her legal counsel because from my personal experience she seriously earns every penny of that retainer and hourly amount. I now have 100% custody of my child. Shana has a great personality and she is a mother as well so she can relate and understand that cases like these are very tough and emotional. As I previously mentioned, Shana is extremely knowledgeable about the law and will put her best into all areas of your case.”
For representation in your San Diego Divorce or Child Custody matter, please contact attorney Shana J. Black at (619) 557-0122
Dealing with the Stress of a Divorce
Posted by Shana Black in Uncategorized on May 1, 2012
Going through a divorce is never easy, and as a result, a majority of divorcing San Diego couples find themselves battling depression, anxiety, and even post-traumatic stress disorder during the divorce process. In fact, research has shown that divorce is the second most stressful event a person can face—second only to the death of a spouse. How you choose to handle that stress and deal with your impending San Diego divorce can have a significant impact on both you and your family’s future.
Talk, Talk, Talk: Most divorce counselors and therapists say that the single best thing you can do to help yourself deal with the stress of a divorce is to find someone to talk to. Talk therapy can help you deal with those overwhelming emotions and insecurities as they arise and deal with them in a positive and productive manner. It doesn’t matter if you choose a divorce counselor, a therapist, or a support group, as long as you keep talking.
Learn to Let Go: As you process through the negative emotions that often arise during the divorce process, you need to learn to let go of the problems and feelings that are out of your control. Stay focused on the situations and the problems that you actually have control over and learn to let go of the rest.
Exercise: While most of us know that exercise is good for our physical well-being, did you know that exercise is also good for your emotional well-being? Physical exercise can help you relieve tension, anger, and anxiety. In addition, you can think clearer after exercise and the endorphins released during exercise can improve your general mood as well.
Make Time for Fun: During a divorce, you may find yourself struggling to adjust to your new lifestyle. Maybe you are trying to get used to a new apartment or life as a single parent. It is easy during this stressful time to neglect yourself and the things that used to make you happy. Yet, it is during the difficult times that we need to focus on fun a little bit more. Make time to do the things that used to bring you the most happiness–spend time with friends, indulge in your favorite hobbies, or travel.
A San Diego Divorce Attorney on Your Side
One of the best ways to handle the stress of a San Diego divorce is to retain the services of an experienced San Diego divorce lawyer. San Diego divorce lawyer Shana Black has successfully represented numerous San Diego divorcing couples and their families throughout the divorce process. Call 1-619-557-0122 or email info@shanablack.com to learn more about all of your San Diego divorce options.
San Diego Child Custody & Divorce
Posted by Shana Black in Uncategorized on April 24, 2012
Choosing to end your marriage is never an easy decision, but when that decision involves the custody of your children, it can be especially difficult. The child custody agreement that you and your spouse decide on during your San Diego divorce will ultimately determine who is legally allowed to make important decisions regarding how your children are cared for. Since these decisions are of paramount importance and will affect how involved you are in your children’s future, it is critical to retain the services of an experienced San Diego child custody attorney before entering into any agreements with your spouse.
San Diego Child Custody Options
Distinguishing between the different types of San Diego child custody agreements and educating yourself about each of these options is essential to establishing an arrangement that will benefit both you and your family well into the future.
• Sole Custody Orders
Exclusive Custody—this type of San Diego child custody order essentially gives one parent the right to make decisions regarding where their child lives, their education, their health care, and more. While the noncustodial parent has visitation rights, an exclusive custody order legally allows the child to live with just one parent.
Sole Physical Custody—this type of San Diego child custody gives one parent physical custody of their child but does not grant legal custody. This means that while the child may live exclusively with the primary parent, that parent is not legally allowed to make decisions exclusively.
Sole Legal Custody—this type of San Diego child custody awards one parent the right to make all legal decisions regarding their child, but they will share physical custody of their child with the other parent.
• Joint Custody Orders
Pure Joint Custody—this type of San Diego child custody gives both parents the option to share in the legal and physical custody of their children. Usually the children will alternate homes and both parents will be responsible for making important decisions regarding their children’s future.
Joint Legal Custody—this type of San Diego child custody order gives both parents an equal share of the decision making responsibilities regarding their children.
Joint Physical Custody—this type of San Diego child custody order gives both parents the right to have time with their children; however, this does not mean that the time needs to be shared equally. One parent can still be designated as the primary caregiver.
Divided Custody—this type of San Diego child custody arrangement allows for varying parenting plans and children may be divided between spouses, with both parents having visitation rights to their other child.
There are situations when child custody can be awarded to a non-parent. These situations include, but are not limited to:
• Physical abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Neglect
• Drug use
• Incarceration of parents
• Situations that affect the child’s safety, health, or welfare
• And more
Choosing the Best San Diego Child Custody Option
Choosing the best San Diego Child Custody option for you and your family is not always easy. San Diego child custody lawyer San Diego Attorney Shana Black has successfully represented numerous San Diego divorcing couples and their families throughout the divorce process. She can help you choose the San Diego child custody agreement that is best for you and your children. Call 1-619-557-0122 or email info@shanablack.com to learn more about all of your San Diego child custody options.
Should I Represent Myself in Court?
Posted by Shana Black in Uncategorized on April 12, 2012
While you are not required to have an attorney represent you in court, it is often a good idea to hire a lawyer. If you choose to act as your own attorney, the court will expect you to know the rules, follow the proper procedures, and file the necessary paperwork. While self-representation is definitely cheaper, it could cost you in the long run.
If you do make the decision to represent yourself, there are many resources available to assist you. If you are filing for divorce or child custody, there are self-help pages on many of the California Superior Court websites. The San Diego Superior Court self-help page for family law litigants can be found here: Family Law Self-Help
You must complete all the necessary paperwork which will depend on the type of legal action you are filing. Family Law forms specific to California and San Diego can be found here: Family Law Forms , as well as some basic instructions.
Once you’ve completed the necessary forms, bring the original documents and two copies to the family court clerk. If you are unable to pay the court filing fee, you may qualify for a fee waiver, available here: Fee Waiver
If self-representation isn’t the right choice for you, speak with an experienced family law attorney.
Contact San Diego Attorney Shana J. Black
Happy Clients
Posted by Shana Black in Uncategorized on April 12, 2012
Although past performance is not a guarantee of future success, it warms my heart whenever I receive client referrals or testimonials based on the positive results I achieved for a client and the personal service provided. Here is a recent client testimonial:
Shana is a class act. She helped guide me through a painful and daunting process and gave me options and encouragement in the midst of crisis. My first communication with her was over two years ago, now, when I was distraught after my husband (at the time) had left my son and me, and a police officer had advised me to file a restraining order against him. It was a very emotional time, and I was unfamiliar with the process. Before she was even formally my attorney, out of the goodness of her heart, she walked me through the process of filing a restraining order, keeping my son and I safe. Shana is sincere, honest, reliable, and she fights with my son and my best interests in mind. Shana cleaned up my case after I’d had a neglectful and dishonest attorney who had actually hurt my case, and Shana moved my case along with poise, tact, dignity, and grace. I have recommended Shana whenever I’m asked to reference an excellent, affordable attorney, and I’ll continue to recommend her in the future. Shana stands by her clients and their children through thick and thin. I am honored to have been represented by Shana, and so will you. Call her now. You’ll be so glad you did.
Happy Clients = Happy Lawyer
Introduction
Posted by Shana Black in Uncategorized on April 19, 2010
As a San Diego attorney, Shana J. Black strives to timely resolve cases in a prompt and expeditious manner. If you are seeking a San Diego lawyer who provides quality legal service and has a tradition of integrity and technical expertise, then you have arrived at the right place.
The Law Office of Shana J. Black will aggressively represent your interests to obtain any and all relief. Our practice location is not limited to San Diego County; we will also handle cases in Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County and Riverside County matters.
The offices of Shana J. Black are conveniently located in the heart of San Diego in Mission Valley between downtown and some of the most beautiful beaches in San Diego. Call now for your free and confidential consultation.