Navigating a divorce can be an emotionally and legally complex process.
Finding the right legal representation is crucial to protecting your interests and achieving a fair resolution.
Los Angeles, with its diverse population and unique legal landscape, offers many options for divorce attorneys.
The best divorce lawyers in Los Angeles combine extensive legal expertise with compassionate client support to guide you through this challenging time. These professionals understand California’s specific divorce laws and can help you address critical issues such as property division, child custody, and spousal support.
By choosing a highly qualified attorney, you can ensure your rights are protected and work towards a favorable outcome in your divorce proceedings.
1) Lisa Bloom
Lisa Bloom is a prominent attorney in Los Angeles known for her work in high-profile cases.
As the founder and owner of The Bloom Firm, she has built a reputation for handling complex family law matters, including divorces.
You might recognize Lisa from her appearances as a legal analyst on television.
Her expertise extends beyond family law to civil rights, personal injury, and criminal defense cases.
Lisa’s approach to divorce cases is often described as strategic and compassionate.
She understands the emotional toll divorce can take on clients and strives to provide supportive guidance throughout the process.
The Bloom Firm, under Lisa’s leadership, has gained recognition for its commitment to social justice issues.
This perspective can be particularly valuable if your divorce case involves sensitive matters or complex legal challenges.
Lisa’s background includes being raised by renowned civil rights attorney Gloria Allred.
This upbringing has likely influenced her dedication to fighting for her clients’ rights in divorce proceedings.
When you work with Lisa Bloom, you can expect a thorough analysis of your case and a personalized strategy.
Her team at The Bloom Firm is equipped to handle various aspects of divorce, from property division to child custody disputes.
It’s worth noting that Lisa’s high profile means she may not personally handle every case at the firm.
However, her expertise and approach inform the work of all attorneys at The Bloom Firm.
2) Laura Wasser
Laura Wasser is a renowned divorce attorney in Los Angeles.
She specializes in California Family Law and has gained a reputation as the go-to lawyer for high-profile celebrities.
Wasser attended the University of California, Berkeley for her undergraduate studies.
She later earned her law degree from Loyola Law School, following in her father’s footsteps as a divorce attorney.
You might recognize her name from high-profile cases involving celebrities.
Wasser has represented numerous A-list clients in their divorce proceedings, earning her the nickname “Disso Queen” (short for dissolution of marriage).
Her expertise extends beyond the courtroom.
Wasser is the founder of an online divorce platform, aiming to make the process more accessible and affordable for those who can’t afford traditional legal services.
She has been recognized for her professional excellence, being named one of California Daily Journal’s Top 100 Lawyers and Southern California’s Top 50 attorneys.
These accolades reflect her skill and dedication to her clients.
Wasser resides in Malibu, California, where she balances her busy legal career with raising her two young sons.
Her personal experience as a parent adds depth to her understanding of family dynamics in divorce cases.
When you’re seeking a divorce lawyer in Los Angeles, Wasser’s track record and expertise make her a top choice.
Her approach combines legal acumen with a practical understanding of the emotional aspects of divorce.
3) Melanie Mandles
Melanie D. Mandles is a highly regarded family law attorney in Los Angeles.
She practices at Wasser, Cooperman & Mandles, P.C., a prestigious firm specializing in divorce and family law matters.
With her extensive experience, you can trust Melanie to handle your divorce case with utmost professionalism.
She has been recognized by Super Lawyers for multiple years, demonstrating her expertise in the field.
Melanie’s legal prowess extends beyond peer recognition.
She has been named in “The Best Lawyers in America” since 2013, a testament to her skill and dedication to her clients.
If you’re seeking a top-tier divorce lawyer, you’ll appreciate Melanie’s commitment to excellence.
She has also been consistently listed among the “Top Women Lawyers in Southern California” since 2013.
Melanie’s professional affiliations include membership in the Los Angeles County Bar Association’s Family Law Section.
This connection keeps her updated on the latest developments in family law.
You can find Melanie at her office in Century City, Los Angeles.
Her firm’s location in the heart of the city makes it convenient for clients seeking high-quality legal representation in divorce matters.
4) Christopher Melcher
Christopher C. Melcher is a highly regarded divorce lawyer in Los Angeles.
You’ll find him ranked as one of the best family law attorneys in California for 2023.
As a partner at Walzer Melcher LLP, Melcher specializes in high-profile and celebrity divorce cases.
His expertise covers a wide range of family law matters, including alimony, child custody, and property division.
You can trust Melcher’s experience in handling sensitive family disputes.
He has a reputation for managing complex divorces involving significant assets and public figures.
Melcher’s skills extend beyond the courtroom.
He’s known for his ability to prepare cases with potential appeals in mind, ensuring comprehensive representation for his clients.
When you work with Melcher, you’re getting more than just legal representation.
His approach involves collaborating with the teams that manage celebrity clients, providing a holistic service.
Melcher’s work has had a lasting impact on family law.
He has been involved in multiple cases that resulted in published appellate decisions, shaping legal precedents in California.
If you’re looking for a divorce lawyer who understands the unique challenges of high-net-worth and celebrity cases, Melcher could be an excellent choice.
His expertise and reputation in Los Angeles make him a standout in the field of family law.
5) Bruce Cooperman
Bruce E. Cooperman is a highly respected family law attorney in Los Angeles.
You’ll find him at Wasser, Cooperman & Mandles, P.C., a prestigious firm specializing in complex divorce cases.
Cooperman’s expertise has earned him recognition from numerous legal organizations.
You can trust his abilities, as he has been listed in “The Best Lawyers in America” every year since 2003.
Your case will be in capable hands with Cooperman.
He has been honored as the Los Angeles Family Law “Lawyer of the Year” by Best Lawyers in 2014 and 2019.
This distinction speaks volumes about his skill and reputation in the field.
Cooperman’s excellence extends beyond individual accolades.
His firm has received the AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, indicating the highest standards of professional excellence.
You’ll benefit from Cooperman’s extensive experience in family law.
He has been named a Southern California Super Lawyer consistently from 2004 to 2021.
This recognition demonstrates his peers’ high regard for his work.
Cooperman’s expertise goes beyond the courtroom.
He has contributed to legal publications, sharing his knowledge with the wider legal community.
His article on guideline child support appeared in Los Angeles Lawyer Magazine in 2005.
When you choose Bruce Cooperman, you’re selecting a lawyer with a proven track record of success in family law.
His years of experience and numerous accolades make him a top choice for those seeking expert legal representation in Los Angeles divorce cases.
6) Laura Allison Wasser
Laura Allison Wasser is a prominent divorce attorney in Los Angeles, specializing in California family law.
You might recognize her name from high-profile celebrity divorce cases she has handled.
Wasser comes from a legal background, with her father Dennis Wasser also being a renowned divorce lawyer.
She graduated from Beverly Hills High School and earned her law degree from Loyola Law School.
You’ll find Wasser’s expertise particularly valuable if you’re dealing with complex divorce proceedings.
She has been named one of California Daily Journal’s Top 100 Lawyers and Southern California’s Top 50 attorneys.
If you’re in the public eye, Wasser’s experience with celebrity clients could be beneficial.
She has represented numerous high-profile individuals in their divorce cases, including Britney Spears and Kevin Costner.
Wasser’s approach to divorce law often emphasizes amicable settlements when possible.
She encourages clients to consider mediation and collaborative divorce options to minimize conflict and costs.
You might appreciate Wasser’s modern approach to divorce.
She founded an online divorce platform to make the process more accessible and affordable for those with simpler cases.
When not in the courtroom, Wasser resides in Malibu, California with her two sons.
Her personal experience as a parent may provide additional insight into family law matters involving children.
7) Mark D. Gross
Mark P. Gross is a highly respected divorce attorney in Los Angeles.
As a managing partner at Brot Gross Fishbein LLP, he brings extensive experience to complex family law cases.
You’ll find that Gross has particular expertise in custody disputes.
He’s recognized by judicial officers for his skill in handling cases involving children with special needs.
Gross has been practicing family law for nearly two decades.
His firm, located in Sherman Oaks, is known as one of the largest family law practices in the San Fernando Valley.
You can expect comprehensive representation from Gross in all aspects of divorce proceedings.
His approach combines legal acumen with a deep understanding of the emotional challenges clients face.
When you work with Gross, you’ll benefit from his leadership in the legal community.
He and his colleagues hold prominent positions in family law sections of bar associations and other notable organizations.
If you’re dealing with a high-stakes divorce or complex custody issues, Gross’s expertise could be invaluable.
His dedication to family law and proven track record make him a top choice for those seeking skilled representation in Los Angeles.
8) Anne Kiley
Anne Kiley is a highly respected divorce lawyer in Los Angeles.
She has built a strong reputation in the field and you can trust her expertise in family law matters.
Kiley has received numerous accolades throughout her career.
She has been recognized as a Southern California “Super Lawyer” for over a decade and named one of the top 50 women lawyers in Southern California since 2011.
Her professional excellence is further validated by her AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell.
This rating reflects the highest level of legal ability and ethical standards in the legal profession.
You’ll find Kiley’s approach to be both classy and smart.
She focuses on the issues at hand and the relevant laws, always striving for the best outcome for her clients.
Kiley’s experience extends to high-profile divorce cases, having represented Hollywood celebrities in complex disputes.
Her expertise in handling ultra-high-net-worth divorces sets her apart in the field.
Recently, Kiley’s legal career took a new turn.
In December 2023, she was appointed to serve as a Judge, a testament to her exceptional legal acumen and professional standing.
When you choose Anne Kiley as your divorce lawyer, you’re selecting a professional with a proven track record of success and a deep understanding of family law in Los Angeles.
9) Daniel Jaffe
Daniel Jaffe is a renowned divorce lawyer in Los Angeles with over five decades of experience.
As a founding partner of Jaffe Family Law Group, he specializes in handling high-profile and complex divorce cases.
You’ll find that Daniel Jaffe is a certified family law specialist, recognized for his expertise in the field.
He has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including being named Family Lawyer of the Year for 2014 in Southern California.
When you work with Daniel Jaffe, you’ll benefit from his membership in several prestigious legal organizations.
This involvement keeps him at the forefront of family law developments and best practices.
Daniel Jaffe’s firm offers a wide range of family law services.
These include divorce, child custody, property division, and taxation matters.
You can expect a professional team of lawyers and paralegals to support your case.
If you’re seeking a divorce lawyer with a proven track record, Daniel Jaffe might be the right choice.
His extensive experience and recognition in the legal community make him a top contender among Los Angeles divorce attorneys.
10) Ben Valencia
Ben Valencia is a highly regarded divorce attorney in Los Angeles.
As a founding partner of Valencia-Taghavi Family Law, he brings extensive experience to complex family law cases.
You’ll find Valencia’s expertise particularly valuable if you’re dealing with high-asset divorces or custody disputes.
His firm specializes in these areas, offering tailored strategies to protect your interests.
Valencia’s accolades speak to his professional standing.
He has been recognized as one of the “10 Best Attorneys” from 2016 to 2019.
In 2019, he was also named among the “Most Influential Minority Attorneys in Los Angeles.”
When you work with Valencia, you benefit from his active involvement in the legal community.
He serves on the Executive Committee of the Los Angeles County Bar Association, keeping him at the forefront of family law developments.
Clients praise Valencia for his compassionate approach.
He understands the emotional toll of divorce and strives to make the process as smooth as possible for you.
Valencia’s team is known for their thorough preparation and aggressive representation when necessary.
They aim to inform you of your rights and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
If you’re seeking a divorce lawyer who combines legal expertise with a client-focused approach, Ben Valencia could be an excellent choice for your Los Angeles divorce case.
Understanding Divorce Law
Navigating divorce law can be complex.
California has specific statutes governing the dissolution of marriage, including grounds for divorce and alternatives like legal separation.
California Divorce Laws
California is a no-fault divorce state.
This means you don’t need to prove wrongdoing by your spouse to end your marriage.
The state recognizes two grounds for divorce: irreconcilable differences and incurable insanity.
California law requires a six-month waiting period from the date of filing before a divorce can be finalized.
This period is designed to allow for potential reconciliation.
The state follows community property laws.
Any assets or debts acquired during the marriage are typically split equally between spouses, regardless of who earned or incurred them.
Grounds for Divorce
In California, you have two options for grounds when filing for divorce:
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Irreconcilable differences: This is the most common reason cited. It simply means your marriage has broken down beyond repair.
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Permanent legal incapacity: This is rarely used and requires proof that your spouse has been mentally incapacitated for at least two years.
You don’t need to prove fault or misconduct by your spouse.
The court’s focus is on resolving issues like property division, child custody, and support rather than assigning blame.
Legal Separation vs. Divorce
Legal separation and divorce are distinct legal processes with different outcomes:
Legal Separation:
- You remain legally married
- Can’t remarry
- May maintain certain benefits (e.g., health insurance)
- Allows time to consider reconciliation
Divorce:
- Permanently ends the marriage
- Allows you to remarry
- Terminates certain spousal benefits
- Is final once the judgment is entered
Both processes involve similar steps for property division, child custody, and support arrangements.
The key difference is that legal separation doesn’t legally end your marriage.
Some couples choose separation for religious reasons or to maintain health insurance benefits.
Choosing the Best Divorce Lawyer
Selecting the right divorce lawyer in Los Angeles is crucial for navigating the complex legal process and protecting your interests.
A skilled attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Qualities to Look For
When searching for a divorce lawyer, prioritize experience and expertise in family law.
Look for attorneys who are certified family law specialists by the State Bar of California.
These professionals have demonstrated advanced knowledge and skills in handling divorce cases.
Consider the lawyer’s communication style and responsiveness.
You’ll want someone who explains legal concepts clearly and keeps you informed throughout the process.
Reputation matters, so research online reviews and ask for referrals from trusted sources.
A track record of successful outcomes and satisfied clients is a good indicator of a lawyer’s capabilities.
Ensure the attorney has experience with cases similar to yours, especially if you have complex financial assets or child custody issues.
Questions to Ask During Consultation
During your initial meeting, ask about the lawyer’s approach to divorce cases.
Inquire about their experience with mediation and litigation, as well as their success rate in negotiating settlements.
Discuss the potential timeline and strategies for your specific case.
Ask how they plan to handle any unique aspects of your situation.
Inquire about the lawyer’s availability and preferred communication methods.
Will you be able to reach them directly when needed?
Ask about their team structure.
Will paralegals or junior associates be handling parts of your case? Understanding this can help you gauge the level of personal attention you’ll receive.
Understanding Legal Fees
Divorce lawyers in Los Angeles typically charge hourly rates, which can vary widely based on experience and reputation.
Some may offer flat fees for certain services.
Ask for a detailed breakdown of anticipated costs, including court filing fees and potential expert witness fees.
Understand how you’ll be billed for phone calls, emails, and other communications.
Discuss payment plans or retainer options.
Some lawyers may require an upfront retainer fee, while others offer more flexible arrangements.
Be wary of lawyers who promise unrealistic outcomes or quote suspiciously low fees.
Quality legal representation is an investment in your future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Finding the right divorce attorney in Los Angeles can be challenging.
Here are answers to some common questions to help guide your search for legal representation.
How can I get a free consultation with a divorce attorney in Los Angeles?
Many reputable divorce lawyers in Los Angeles offer free initial consultations.
You can contact law firms directly to inquire about consultations.
Some attorneys, like Lisa Bloom, may provide complimentary phone consultations to discuss your case.
Who are some of the top-rated female divorce attorneys in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles has several highly regarded female divorce attorneys. Laura Wasser is known for her work with high-profile clients.
Melanie Mandles is another respected attorney in the field.
What are the average legal fees for a divorce lawyer in Los Angeles?
Divorce attorney fees in Los Angeles can vary widely based on experience and complexity of the case.
Hourly rates typically range from $300 to $800 or more.
Some lawyers may offer flat fee arrangements for simpler cases.
How do I find an affordable but experienced divorce attorney in Los Angeles?
To find an affordable yet experienced attorney, consider lawyers with smaller practices or those outside central Los Angeles.
You can also look for attorneys who offer sliding scale fees or payment plans.
Compare multiple consultations to find the best fit for your budget and needs.
What is the typical retainer fee for a divorce attorney in California?
Retainer fees for divorce attorneys in California often range from $3,000 to $10,000 or more.
The exact amount depends on the attorney’s experience and the anticipated complexity of your case.
Some lawyers may offer lower retainers for simpler divorces.
What is the quickest and least expensive route to obtain a divorce in California?
The fastest and most cost-effective way to divorce in California is through an uncontested divorce.
This requires both parties to agree on all terms.
You can file for a summary dissolution if you meet certain criteria, such as being married for less than 5 years and having no children.