Is it Possible for my Spouse to Pay My Attorney’s Fees?

There are several methods to use to request that a portion of your attorney’s fees be paid by the other party.

Attorney Fees Generally

A family law court has authority to make attorney fee awards throughout the case. In a proceeding for dissolution of marriage, and in any proceeding subsequent to entry of a related judgment, the court shall ensure that each party has access to legal representation, including access early in the proceedings, to preserve each party’s rights by ordering, if necessary based on the income and needs assessments, one party to pay to the other party, or to the other party’s attorney, whatever amount is reasonably necessary for attorney’s fees and for the cost of maintaining or defending the proceeding during the pendency of the proceeding. Fam C § 2030(a)(1).

Court’s Ability to Award Attorney’s Fees

Trial courts enjoy broad discretion in...

Tess was invited to speak on ESPN 1700AM Jesse’s Secret Stash Radio show!

Certified Family Law Specialist, Tess Reutzel appeared live on Jesse’s Secret Stash ESPN 1700AM to discuss the 4 Biggest Family Law Mistakes. Tess shares a little about what she does as a family law attorney and offers insight and new perspectives on some tricky family law matters. Thanks to Jesse and ESPN for having us!

Click here to watch the full video!

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Should I Keep the House in Our Divorce?

Many divorce clients in San Diego struggle with the decision of whether to keep their home during a divorce. With all the life changes inherently involved in a marital dissolution, many people prefer to hold on to the family home because it is a source of comfort. This is especially so when there are children involved and parents do not want to further disturb the norm. Staying in the home will allow children to stay in their current schools and continue their existing relationships with friends and neighbors in the community. While this may be the decision that seems right emotionally, there are several considerations to determine whether this decision is financially sound.

1) Can I Afford the Home?

The first question to ask is whether the home fits into your budget. When you are married, the family income works to support one household. Upon divorce, that...

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