◈ Homepage — http://www.brownelllegal.com/Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation PRACTICE AREAS OUR TEAM ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES RESOLVING FAMILY CONFLICT WITH HEART SERVICES CONTACT Our Goal for Your Case We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are, and guide you through the legal process smoothly. Compassion These times can be challenging, and we are here to make sure you understand every step of the proces... Read More Advocacy It's important that you have an advocate in your corner to protect all of your rights... Read More Problem Solving Before becoming involved in litigation, we will work to come to whatever out-of-court agreements we ... Read More Before becoming involved in litigation, we will work to come to whatever out-of-court agreements we can... These times can be challenging, and we are here to make sure you understand every step of the process... It's important that you have an advocate in your corner to protect all of your rights... Before becoming involved in litigation, we will work to come to whatever out-of-court agreements we can... These times can be challenging, and we are here to make sure you understand every step of the process... 1 2 3 Practice Areas Child Custody & Visitation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA This is the time that you spend with your children. If you and the other party cannot ... Learn More Child Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA The father and mother of a minor child have an equal responsibility to support their ... Learn More Property Allocation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Each case is different and will involve division of the community property assets ... Learn More Restraining Orders Lawyer Walnut Creek CA If the other party is threatening or harassing you, the court may make an Order ... Learn More Spousal Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA In California, the court-ordered amount of money that is paid from one spouse or ... Learn More Divorce Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Divorce in California can be a difficult and confusing process. There are countless forms, rules... Learn More Child Custody & Visitation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA This is the time that you spend with your children. If you and the other party cannot ... Learn More Child Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA The father and mother of a minor child have an equal responsibility to support their ... Learn More Property Allocation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Each case is different and will involve division of the community property assets ... Learn More Restraining Orders Lawyer Walnut Creek CA If the other party is threatening or harassing you, the court may make an Order ... Learn More Spousal Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA In California, the court-ordered amount of money that is paid from one spouse or ... Learn More Divorce Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Divorce in California can be a difficult and confusing process. There are countless forms, rules... Learn More Child Custody & Visitation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA This is the time that you spend with your children. If you and the other party cannot ... Learn More Child Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA The father and mother of a minor child have an equal responsibility to support their ... Learn More Property Allocation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Each case is different and will involve division of the community property assets ... Learn More Restraining Orders Lawyer Walnut Creek CA If the other party is threatening or harassing you, the court may make an Order ... Learn More Meet Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Ariel is a Certified Family Law Specialist, certified by the California State Bar Board of Legal Specialization. She is committed to finding the best resolution for you and your family and will advocate tirelessly to resolve your family conflict, with heart.   If you have questions about your family law matter, please use the button below to schedule a consultation. Ariel looks forward to speaking with you.  Schedule Now We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. ◈ Interior Pages — 30 pages crawledProperty Allocation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA - The Law Office Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Property Allocation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Home Practice Property Allocation Lawye Property Allocation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA December 1, 2015 By: Ariel Brownell Lee Property can only be allocated by the family court in cases involving dissolution of a marriage or registered domestic partnership. If you were never married to your partner, you may have property rights under other civil statutes. Those matters would be heard in civil court, not family court. Property division involves both community and separate property assets. Ready to move forward? We are here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us to set up a consultation . Share Post About Lawyer Ariel Brownell Lee Search Areas of Practice Divorce Lawyer Walnut Cre... Child Custody & Visi... Child Support Lawyer Waln... Property Allocation Lawye... Restraining Orders Lawyer... Nullity/Annulment of Marr... Legal Separation Lawyer W... Parentage Action Lawyer W... Mediation Lawyer Walnut C... Spousal Support Lawyer Wa... Premarital Agreements Law... Postmarital Agreements La... Meet Ariel Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Attorney We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Child Custody Lawyer Walnut Creek CA | The Law Offices of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Child Custody Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Home Child Custody Lawyer Waln Child Custody Lawyer Walnut Creek, CA A child custody lawyer Walnut Creek, California trusts handles real, practical issues that arise between separating parents in relation to when and where each parent has custodial time with the kids. Most parent’s find themselves concerned with the potential of losing significant time with their children. The court’s primary concern is the best interests of the child. To determine what situation is in the best interest of the child, the court considers several factors, but let’s come back to that later. Above all, seek a reputable child custody lawyer in Walnut Creek, one with compassion, who will listen and understand your situation and be able to guide you through the challenges in the road ahead. Here are important terms to understand as you see a Walnut Creek, CA child custody lawyer. Legal Custody – The parent with legal custody makes the decisions relating to the health, education and welfare of their child. Parents can share joint legal custody or one parent can have sole legal custody (CA Family Code sections 3003 and 3006). Custody is often defined with a percentage (%), such as 50/50, 70/30, etc. Physical Custody – Joint physical custody means that each parent cares for the child for significant periods of times. Sole physical custody means that the child lives with one parent and visits with the other parent (CA Family Code sections 3004 and 3007). Again, a percentage is often used in the definition of a custody arrangement. Child Visitation/Timeshare – This is the actual schedule of time that you are to spend with your children. If you and the other party cannot agree on a schedule, the court will make timeshare schedule decisions based upon the best interests of the children. The timeshare schedule may differ based upon the age of the children and their needs. It will define days, times, and places that parties are to exchange a child or children. The two terms, visitation and timeshare, can be used interchangeably. In daily parlance, the terms are often used incorrectly in place of “custody.” Back to the factors considered by the court when deciding what custody arrangement is in the best interest of the children. These factors include: the ages of the children, each parent’s living situation, each parent’s willingness to support the other’s relationship with the children (and any interference in doing so), each parent’s relationship with the children prior to divorce, children’s preferences, continuity and stability of each parent’s home, past abuse or neglect, and more. In regards to age, younger children generally need to see each parent more frequently than older children. Sometimes, the child’s preference may carry more weight as they age. Also, the living situation a parent is in should reflect that parent’s desire to be prepared and want to provide for their children; don’t expect a judge to grant full custody if you are couchsurfing. As to stability, a divorce is hard enough on children; courts are not inclined to add to the trauma by placing a child in a situation where a parent has an unsteady job or living situation. These factors provide a brief summary of only a few common factors. A top Walnut Creek child custody lawyer knows the court and judges and can provide a more tailored approach to the specific facts of your case. When Does Domestic Violence Impact Child Custody Cases? When a romantic relationship ends due in-part to domestic violence or accusations of domestic violence, it can be uniquely challenging for both parties to navigate the aftermath of the breakup. This may be especially true when the romantic partners involved are parents of minor children. For example, it is not always easy to predict how domestic violence may ultimately impact a child custody dispute. While it would seem fairly intuitive that a child would be kept away from a parent convicted of domestically abusing a co-parent, this is not always the case. Matters may be further complicated when one parent has been accused of domestic violence but not convicted of concrete criminal charges. If you are dealing with this serious situation, contact a child custody lawyer Walnut Creek, CA from the Law Offices of Ariel Brownell. The Best Interests of the Child Standard Regardless of the particulars of your family’s situation, any custody dispute you may become a part of will be determined according to the best interests of the child standard. Family law judges are bound to honor this standard when settling disputes involving the custody of minor children. However, the challenging reality of the best interests of the child standard is that it is often quite subjective in practice. When a parent has suffered abuse at the hands of his or her child’s other parent, it is understandable for that individual to want to keep the child away from the abuser. However as a Walnut Creek, CA child custody lawyer can attest, there are times when a court will not agree to this arrangement. Many judges would argue that even if a parent is abusive towards another adult that keeping that individual away from his or her child is not in that child’s best interests, provided that the child is not at significant risk of being abused. In other situations, individuals who have been wrongfully accused of domestic abuse are kept away from their children because a judge determines that this arrangement is in the children’s best interests. It is precisely because the best interests of the child standard is not applied in any uniform way that parents should consult a seasoned child custody lawyer in Walnut Creek, CA if they are involved in custody disputes impacted by violence or accusations of violence. As an experienced child custody lawyer will be able to craft strong legal strategies designed to illustrate why a specific arrangement will serve a child’s best interests. No matter what your family is going through, it will likely be helpful for you to seek legal guidance before your custody dispute becomes increasingly complex over time. Child Custody Guidance Is Available If you have questions about child custody generally or child custody matters impacted by domestic violence specifically, please do not hesitate to reach out to a child custody lawyer in Walnut Creek, CA. Because every family’s situation is unique, it is not easy to apply “hard and fast” rules about custody matters without understanding the details surrounding a child’s homelife. Once an attorney has a better understanding of your family’s situation, he or she will be best placed to advise you of any legal options available to you. Should you decide to pursue legal action in any form, a Walnut Creek, CA child custody lawyer will be able to provide you with necessary support and/or direct you to the most relevant resources available. And because speaking with an attorney does not obligate you to take any legal action whatsoever, you should not hesitate to reach out with questions at any point that they may arise. Custody is usually intertwined with several other facets of family law and there is a need to consider all of them comprehensively. When you seek a child custody lawyer Walnut Creek, CA needs and want someone who can quickly target the pertinent factors to your case, call the Law Office of Ariel Brownell . We are a boutique la Divorce Lawyer Walnut Creek, CA | The Law Offices Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Divorce Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Home Divorce Lawyer Walnut Cre What are Tips to Help Make Divorce Negotiations Go Easier? A seasoned divorce lawyer understands that dealing with your spouse during divorce negotiations can be frustrating. Many of the same communication issues that may have caused the marriage to breakdown may also appear while trying to come to an agreement regarding how the marital estate should be divided. At the Law Office of Ariel Brownell , we have extensive experience helping couples work through the process of ending their marriage and address all the legal issue involved. When you need a skilled divorce negotiator, contact our office for assistance. Negotiation Process There are many issues that need to be resolved when divorcing, including child custody, child support, asset division, property division, and division of debts. The more disagreement during this process, the longer the process will take. However, there are steps you can take that can help keep conflicts at a minimum: Realize that acknowledging you have heard or understand what your spouse is saying is different than obeying. Comments such as “I want to make sure I understand what you’re saying. . .” and “Now that I understand. Can I have some time to consider it before I give you an answer,” lets your spouse know that you are actually listening. When discussing how household or other items should be divided, use “I-statements” instead of demands. For example, if an item holds sentimental value to you, let your spouse know by stating, “I feel sentimental about . . .” instead of saying, “You can’t take that.” Do not take things personally and do not assume that everything your spouse does is directed to frustrate you. For example, if he or she is late for a meeting, consider all the reasons for being late such as traffic, delayed at work, etc. Do not assume they are late just to make you angry. During conversations, direct your frustration at the situation, not the person. For example, if selling your marital home may be necessary, articulate your feelings by stating, “This is really a such a hard decision to make and I would like to see if we can work together to figure out a solution,” instead of stating, “If only you had earned enough money when we were married, we would not be in this situation now.” Pick and choose which battles are really the ones that matter. It is important to be able to compromise in this process. Be approachable and easy to talk to. Otherwise, your spouse will not want to discuss things with you and that could put a halt to negotiations. Let a Divorce Lawyer in Walnut Creek, CA Help Ending a marriage is never easy and even the friendliest of divorces can quickly turn acrimonious when it comes to negotiations. If you are involved in divorce negotiations with your spouse, make sure you have an experienced divorce lawyer Walnut Creek California clients recommend representing your best interests. If you would like to speak with a skilled divorce attorney from the Law Office of Ariel Brownell , call us today to set up a free consultation. We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Compassion - The Law Office Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Compassion Home Practice Compassion Compassion November 30, 2015 By: Ariel Brownell Lee These times can be challenging, and we are here to make sure you understand every step of the process Share Post About Lawyer Ariel Brownell Lee Search Areas of Practice Divorce Lawyer Walnut Cre... Child Custody & Visi... Child Support Lawyer Waln... Property Allocation Lawye... Restraining Orders Lawyer... Nullity/Annulment of Marr... Legal Separation Lawyer W... Parentage Action Lawyer W... Mediation Lawyer Walnut C... Spousal Support Lawyer Wa... Premarital Agreements Law... Postmarital Agreements La... Meet Ariel Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Attorney We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS - The Law Office Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Home Our Attorneys Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq. Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Attorney 925-255-0515 [email protected] https://www.brownelllegal.com/ AVVO Rebecca Jones is a California native. She received her paralegal certificate in 2009, working as a paralegal in construction defect litigation while completing her Bachelor’s Degree. In 2010, Rebecca received her Bachelor’s Degree in Legal Studies from John F. Kennedy University in Pleasant Hill, CA. During her time in law school, Rebecca spent over a year as a law clerk with Bay Area Legal Aid in the Domestic Violence and Family Law division. In 2014, Rebecca received her Juris Doctor from John F. Kennedy University, receiving the Witkin Award for Excellence in Evidence along with Certificates in Mediation Training, Public Interest Law, and Children, Families, & the Law. Since beginning her practice, Rebecca has focused on all aspects of family law including child custody and visitation, child support, spousal support, asset division, and domestic violence. Rebecca has been recognized as a Super Lawyers Rising Star for three years running, a recognition received by only the top 2.5% of attorneys in California. Rebecca has applied her years of experience in these areas to teach courses in both the Juris Doctor and paralegal programs at John F. Kennedy University. Rebecca has previously been an active volunteer with STAND Against Domestic Violence and Tri Valley Haven and a member of the Junior League of Oakland East Bay. Rebecca became a Certified Family Law Specialist in 2024 after being Certified as a Specialist in Family Law by the California State Bar Board of Legal Specialization.   A Seat at the Table Ariel co-hosts this podcast on behalf of California Women Lawyers. Ariel and Summer interview the founding mothers of the organization and engage in thought provoking discussions about women in the law. Take a listen here: http://cwlseatatthetable.blogspot.com Super Lawyers Ariel is proud to announce she was named as a 2018 and 2019 Super Lawyers Rising. Business Networking International MVP Award November 2018 2018 Contra Costa County Bar Association Diversity Award Gold Level Contact with Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Spousal Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA - The Law Office Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Spousal Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Home Practice Spousal Support Lawyer Wa Spousal Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA November 1, 2015 By: Ariel Spousal Support, in California, is defined as the court-ordered amount of money that is paid from one spouse or domestic partner to the other and can also be referred to as “partner support.” It can be paid while the case is going on, called “temporary support,” and it can also be required after the finalization of the divorce or legal separation, called “permanent support.” These terms can be misleading; pre-judgment and post-judgment support are more accurate terms. Spousal support is a complex issue. Temporary (pre-judgment) support is calculated differently than permanent (post-judgment) support. Temporary support is calculated using the same formula used for calculating child support. It is based on the parties’ incomes. Temporary support can last the duration of the dissolution proceedings. Permanent support is not calculated using a formula. In fact, it is a violation of state law to base a post-judgment support figure on the formula alone. Permanent support is determined by weighing several factors. These are listed in CA Family Code Section 4320 . So, how long will you have to pay, or be entitled to receive, spousal support? The length of the marriage is one of the biggest factors in determining the duration of a support order. Short-term marriages, less than 10 years, generally see support for half the length of the marriage or less. Long term marriage, 10 years or more, can see support orders ranging anywhere from half the length of the marriage to the payee’s lifetime. Ready to move forward? We are here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us to set up a consultation . Share Post About Lawyer Ariel Search Areas of Practice Divorce Lawyer Walnut Cre... Child Custody & Visi... Child Support Lawyer Waln... Property Allocation Lawye... Restraining Orders Lawyer... Nullity/Annulment of Marr... Legal Separation Lawyer W... Parentage Action Lawyer W... Mediation Lawyer Walnut C... Spousal Support Lawyer Wa... Premarital Agreements Law... Postmarital Agreements La... Meet Ariel Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Attorney We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Achievements - The Law Office Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Achievements Home Achievements 2018 Contra Costa County Bar Association Diversity Award — Gold Level Business Networking International MVP Award, November 2018 Super Lawyers Ariel is proud to announce she was named as a 2018 and 2019 Super Lawyers Rising Star. AVVO Rated 10 out of 10. Published Articles March 1, 2018 "Show Up, Make Your Voice Heard" CCCBA Board Membership Ariel is an active member of the legal community. She is currently serving as President of the Women's Section of the Contra Costa County Bar Association, she is a Board Member of the Barrister's Section of the Contra Costa County Bar Association, she is a delegate of Contra Costa for the California Podcast Ariel co-hosts this podcast on behalf of California Women Lawyers. Ariel and Summer interview the founding mothers of the organization and engage in thought-provoking discussions about women in the law. Take a listen here: California Woma Search Areas of Practice Divorce Lawyer Walnut Cre... Child Custody & Visi... Child Support Lawyer Waln... Property Allocation Lawye... Restraining Orders Lawyer... Nullity/Annulment of Marr... Legal Separation Lawyer W... Parentage Action Lawyer W... Mediation Lawyer Walnut C... Meet Attorneys Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Attorney Ramean Behnam, Esq. Attorney We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal - The Law Office Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Home Our Attorneys Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Paralegal 925-255-0515 [email protected] https://www.brownelllegal.com AVVO Jocelyn Lewis is the Firm’s paralegal, with over 25 years of comprehensive experience in Family Law. Jocelyn’s educational background is both impressive and specialized. She holds an Associate Degree in Judicial Administration, which she earned with honors. Her journey in the legal field is marked by her significant contribution to the Contra Costa County Court for 12 years, where she held various critical roles. Jocelyn’s roles have spanned from Legal Process Clerk and Legal Technician Clerk in Family Law to Courtroom Clerk for the Department of Child Support Services. She has also served as the Courtroom Clerk to the Supervising Richmond Judge, Juvenile Hall, and the Supervising Family Law Judge in Contra Costa County. Her dedication and outstanding service to the court were recognized in 2016 when she was honored with the Court Staff Award by the State Bar of California. Beyond her responsibilities at the county court, Jocelyn has been an active participant in shaping Family Law education and practice in California. As a member of the California Judicial Council’s Family Law education task force committee for six years, she played a pivotal role. Jocelyn co-facilitated three state-wide, multi-day regional trainings with a Judicial Officer, developed standardized training content for Judgment processing, and contributed to a broadcast that was disseminated across California’s 58 counties for state-wide training purposes. Jocelyn’s passion for Family Law is driven by its impact on individuals from various backgrounds. In addition to her legal qualifications, she holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Central State University. Her unique combination of legal expertise, educational background, and dedication to Family Law makes her an invaluable asset to our firm and our clients. A Seat at the Table Ariel co-hosts this podcast on behalf of California Women Lawyers. Ariel and Summer interview the founding mothers of the organization and engage in thought provoking discussions about women in the law. Take a listen here: http://cwlseatatthetable.blogspot.com Super Lawyers Ariel is proud to announce she was named as a 2018 and 2019 Super Lawyers Rising. Business Networking International MVP Award November 2018 2018 Contra Costa County Bar Association Diversity Award Gold Level Contact with Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Child Custody & Visitation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA - The Law Office Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Child Custody & Visitation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Home Practice Child Custody & Visi Child Custody & Visitation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA December 1, 2015 By: Ariel Brownell Lee This is the time that you spend with your children. If you and the other party cannot agree on the timeshare schedule for the children, then the court will make the decision based upon the best interests of the children. The timeshare schedule may differ based upon the age of the children and their needs. Issues involving children can arrise as part of a divorce or a parentage action when the parents are not married. It is important to craft a custody and visitation agreement that can stand the test of time. However, it’s important to remember you can never predict what the future holds, changes to these orders are common. Whether you need to establish an initial custody and visitation order or modify an existing order, these issues are very personal and stressful. In California, there are two kinds of custody: legal and physical. Legal custody refers to who has the responsibility to make decisions relating to the children and physical custody is about who the children live with. (a) Legal Custody. The parent with legal custody makes the decisions relating to the health, education and welfare of their child. Parents can share joint legal custody or one parent can have sole legal custody. (Family Code sections 3003 and 3006) (b) Physical Custody. Joint physical custody means that each parent cares for the child for significant periods of times. Sole physical custody means that the child lives with one parent and visits with the other parent. (Family Code sections 3004 and 3007) (c) Visitation. This is the actual schedule which dictates where the children spend specific amounts of time with each parent. This schedule dictates timeshare percentage, which is used for the purpose of calculating support. It is important to establish a set schedule that everyone can rely on. Without a set schedule, neither parent will be able to enforce the schedule. Important Considerations in Child Custody Cases The child comes first. The courts evaluate every case using a “best interest of the child” analysis. The court will always do what it feels is best for the child. Sorry parents, it’s not about you, it’s about the kids. Regardless of timeshare, both parents have a legal obligation to support their children. Physical and sexual abuse of a child will prevent the abuser for getting custody of the child. While a child’s wishes may be considered by the court in certain circumstances, the child does not get the last word in the custody decision. Remember, the child has a voice, but not a choice. It is unlikely the court will separate sibilings, as it is unlikely to be found in their best interest. Common Custody and Visitation Issues Initial orders: These should be as specific as possible to avoid confusion. Think about the school schedule, the summer schedule, and a holiday schedule. Modification: Change happens. It is dificult to craft a schedule that works for everyone for your child’s enitre minority. Sometimes both parents will acknowledge the schedule needs modifying, while other times one parent may be hesitant to make a change. Either way, the ultimate goal is to put a schedule in place that is in the childrens’ best interest. Move-aways: The reality is that when one parent wants to move away from the other, it can have a dramatic impact on the children’s time with each parent. These cases require special analysis and argument, every case is different. Ready to move forward? We are here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us to set up a consultation . Share Post About Lawyer Ariel Brownell Lee Search Areas of Practice Divorce Lawyer Walnut Cre... Child Custody & Visi... Child Support Lawyer Waln... Property Allocation Lawye... Restraining Orders Lawyer... Nullity/Annulment of Marr... Legal Separation Lawyer W... Parentage Action Lawyer W... Mediation Lawyer Walnut C... Spousal Support Lawyer Wa... Premarital Agreements Law... Postmarital Agreements La... Meet Ariel Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Attorney We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Spousal Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA | The Law Offices Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Spousal Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Home Spousal Support Lawyer Wa Spousal Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Talk to the skilled Spousal Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA trusts, call the Law Office of Ariel Brownell. We know that few topics in family law conjure up such tense emotions as spousal support due to the fact that emotions can run high. The modern concept of spousal support is that a higher earning spouse will make payments to the other spouse after a divorce for the purpose of maintaining the former spouse’s standard of living maintained during the marriage. Permanent spousal support, more correctly referred to as post-judgment spousal support, will continue for a specified period of time either agreed to by the parties or determined by the court. Temporary Spousal Support, more correctly referred to as pre-judgment support, is calculated differently. Temporary support payments occur in the time after separation and before a final court judgment has been reached. During the pendency of any proceeding for dissolution of marriage or for legal separation of the parties, the court may order a spouse to pay any amount that is necessary for the support of the other spouse (California Family Code Section 3600, subject to limitations in subdivisions (i) and (m) of Section 4320 and Section 4325, where a spouse who has been the victim of abuse will not be ordered to pay support to their abuser). This support is commonly referred to as “temporary spousal support” or sometimes “Pendente Lite” support. Different rules apply to how temporary support is calculated vs. permanent spousal support, and when making an order for temporary support, the court’s main concern is the relative income circumstances of the two parties. Like child support, the formula for calculating temporary support is complex and courts and attorneys almost always use software called Dissomaster to calculate the amount of support the higher earning spouse must pay to the lower earning spouse. It is important to note that the court has broad discretion to deviate from the spousal support amount specified by these types of programs. This is why it is crucial you contact a spousal support lawyer to get the best outcome for your specific circumstances. Some spousal support considerations include: There do not need to be children of the marriage for an order of temporary spousal support to be made. Temporary spousal support is usually higher than permanent spousal support; Permanent support, or post-judgment support, cannot be calculated using Dissomaster . All factors in Family Code section 4320 must be considered; If a spouse could be earning an income or has the potential to earn a higher income, they may be imputed with income or a higher income for the purpose of the calculation; The non-earning spouse may also be issued with a warning known as a “ Gavron warning” requiring them to make a genuine effort to become self-supporting and to produce evidence of their attempts, for example, job search logs. Several factors go into calculating temporary and permanent spousal support. There are also a tremendous number of exceptions that may affect your situation greatly. Whether you are a spouse concerned you’ll have to pay too much, or you are concerned about how you are going to survive after leaving, trust the Spousal Support Attorney Walnut Creek CA counts on, call the Law Office of Ariel Brownell to take the uncertainty out of the process, help you understand your rights, how to protect them, and help you navigate to a fair resolution. We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Our Attorneys Archive - The Law Office Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Home Archive by category "" Ramean Behnam, Esq. September 29, 2025 By: Ariel Lee Comments are off Ramean Behnam is a Junior Associate Attorney at the Law Office of Ariel Brownell, where he brings a strong background in corporate law and a commitment to client advocacy. Before joining the firm, Ramean spent three years as corporate counsel, advising businesses o... Read More Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS January 13, 2025 By: Ariel Brownell Lee Comments are off My name is Ariel Brownell Lee. I was born and raised in Sacramento, CA. I received my Bachelor's of Science from Sacramento State University. I majored in Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology. After attending Sac State, I took a year off to teach and work as a file clerk at a local Sacramento... Read More Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS February 1, 2023 By: Ariel Comments are off Rebecca Jones is a California native. She received her paralegal certificate in 2009, working as a paralegal in construction defect litigation while completing her Bachelor's Degree. In 2010, Rebecca received her Bachelor's Degree in Legal Studies from John F. Kennedy University in Pleasant Hill, CA... Read More Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal February 1, 2023 By: Ariel Comments are off Jocelyn Lewis is the Firm's paralegal, with over 25 years of comprehensive experience in Family Law. Jocelyn's educational background is both impressive and specialized. She holds an Associate Degree in Judicial Administration, which she earned with honors. Her journey in the legal field is marke... Read More Derick Lee, Assistant February 1, 2023 By: Ariel Comments are off Derick brings a wealth of experience and a passion for efficiency to our team. A proud graduate of Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Derick earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering before embarking on a dynamic career with industry leaders like Gallo Winery, Facebook, and Gatorade as well as a... Read More Meet Attorneys Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Attorney Ramean Behnam, Esq. Attorney Areas of Practice Divorce Lawyer Walnut Cre... Child Custody & Visi... Child Support Lawyer Waln... Property Allocation Lawye... Restraining Orders Lawyer... We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Child Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA | The Law Offices of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Child Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Home Child Support Lawyer Waln Child Support Issues When two people decide to part ways and have shared children together, they may then have to get into a very emotionally charged dispute about child support. Resentments, anger and even hostility can quickly arise, especially if one parent feels the child support amount is not fair. Parents that are having trouble weaving through the legalities of a child support battle, may turn to a child support lawyer familiar with family law cases in the Walnut Creek, CA area to represent them, such as from the Law Office of Ariel Brownell . The most important factor in child support, is whether or not the children are getting everything they need to live a happy and healthy life. If you’re divorcing or separating and have minor children, you should speak to a child support lawyer Walnut Creek CA residents rely on. Who will pay, how they will pay, and what happens with the money are just a few questions parents have. This is a stressful topic, to say the least. While it is no surprise to know one parent will likely have to pay, not everyone knows the factors courts consider to determine the amount of child support. When you need a child support lawyer in Walnut Creek CA that you can trust, count on the Law Office of Ariel Brownell. With years of successful support resolutions, we have forged a clear understanding of what is required and how our local courts handle support matters; we can handle your matter efficiently as possible. What is Child Support? Both parents of a minor child have an equal responsibility to support their child in the manner suitable to the child’s circumstances (CA Family Code section 3900). This duty continues as to an unmarried minor child until he or she completes the 12th grade or attains the age of 19 years, whichever occurs first (CA Family Code section 3901). Child support exists solely to support the upbringing of children. Raising kids is expensive, child support offers a way to help ensure that each parent is contributing and supporting the child financially. Two common factors used to determine who makes payments are the income of each parent and the amount of time each parent spends with their child. Other factors include: the needs of the child, such as health insurance, schooling, day care, and any applicable special needs unique to the child; the income and needs of the custodial parent; the paying parent’s financial ability to contribute, and; the standard of living the child experienced before the separation of the parents. The ultimate goal of support is to maintain a level of normalcy for the child. Child Support can be paid through an intermediate service that the paying parent pays into. The receiving parent then receives these amounts automatically. This type of arrangement prevents the types of conflict that can arise when people begin to withhold child support as a retaliation or to demonstrate anger toward the other parent. Some parents maintain a level of trust such that payments can be made directly from one parent to the other. For any parent that is new to separation and support issues, it is imperative that you share all the details of what you know of your income and expenses as well as those of the other parent so that your child support lawyer can help you protect your interests in this difficult time. An experienced child support lawyer from the Walnut Creek, California area has received these questions from parents negotiating the terms of child support about the process: How do courts determine child support amounts? Each state has established their own rules for calculating how much in child support is to be paid. Factors that can influence the amount include the income of each parent and the amount of living expenses they have. A judge may have more or less leeway on setting an amount, based on the flexibility of state laws. Other factors that are likely to be taken into consideration when child support is calculated includes: The needs of the children, including medical care, school supplies, daycare, clothing, and other needs The income of the parent receiving child support The ability of the paying parent to meet child support needs Will I need to provide information about my finances? In Walnut Creek, CA, child support lawyers know that it is very likely that the court judge will request statements related to how much you make per month, in addition to living expenses. The court may require that each parent fills out a statement that provides an accurate overall depiction of their financial status. Will the court judge factor in standard of living during the marriage? A child support lawyer in Walnut Creek, CA has seen the court likely is to also consider the standard of living the children had during the marriage, so they can continue living in such an environment if possible. However, a court judge probably understands the new financial difficulties each parent may endure due to the separation. Those who are transitioning from a dual income household to a single income home, may not be able to afford a lavish lifestyle. Is the judge going to factor in my earning potential, or current income? In the majority of states, the court judge is going to examine the parent’s earning potential in combination with what he or she is really earning. While the current earnings are important, it may not determine how much is paid in child support if the parent could be earning more if they chose to. If a parent does any of the following, the ability to earn rather than current income, may weigh heavier in the judge’s ultimate decision: He or she leaves current job and chooses to apply for law, medical or veterinary school He or she accepts a job that is of a much lower pay, but has a high likelihood of pay increases in the future He or she accepts a job that pays less, but offers higher job satisfaction It is important to speak with an experienced child support lawyer from the Walnut Creek, CA area to answer any questions you may have. At the Law Office of Ariel Brownell, we are dedicated to your child’s health and happiness, and will hard to try and achieve the best possible outcome for them. Because child support and custody can be so intertwined, it’s important to make sure you are working with someone who has a comprehensive overview of your matter when seeking a child support lawyer in Walnut Creek. A shift in custody, the remarriage of your former spouse, a move across town, a change in job circumstances for either party, or a receipt of a windfall of money can change the entire situation in ways that you did not expect. Divorce and separation with kids is a trying time full of questions, fear, and confusion. When you seek a child support lawyer in Walnut Creek CA, call the Law Office of Ariel Brownell . Ariel has the knowledge, skill, expertise, and compassion to guide you through. We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: Admin@Brownell Guideline Calculator - The Law Office Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Guideline Calculator Home Guideline Calculator We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq. | Family Lawyer | Walnut Creek CA Attorney Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Home Our Attorneys Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Attorney 925-255-0515 [email protected] https://www.brownelllegal.com AVVO My name is Ariel Brownell Lee. I was born and raised in Sacramento, CA. I received my Bachelor’s of Science from Sacramento State University. I majored in Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology. After attending Sac State, I took a year off to teach and work as a file clerk at a local Sacramento law firm. I then attended law school at UC Davis, King Hall School of Law. During my time at King Hall, I developed a strong interest in family law. I realized family law was the perfect practice area for me because it allowed me to affect real, positive change, directly in peoples’ lives. I am an active member of the local legal community and Certified as a Specialist in Family Law by the California State Bar Board of Legal Specialization. I have served as President of the Women’s Section of the Contra Costa County Bar Association, been a delegate of Contra Costa for the California Conference of Bar Associations, served on the the Board of Director’s for California Women Lawyers as the affiliate governor for Contra Costa Country, and in association with CWL, co-hosted the podcast “Seat at the Table” with Sutter Selleck. I am currently the President of the Family Law section of the Contra Costa County Bar Association, and serving on the Board of Directors for the Contra Costa County Bar Association. My staff and I strive to offer exceptional and personal customer service to all of my clients.   Practice Areas Divorce A judgment of divorce terminates your marriage. It will also allow you to divide your property, provide for the support of the other party and your children. Legal Separation This process will allow the parties to divide their property, provide for the support of the other party and your children. Neither party may remarry until they file for Divorce. Nullity/Annulment of Marriage This is available if the parties meet certain requirements and the marriage is void or voidable. Discuss your specific case with your attorney. Parentage Action This is available to parties who are parents, but never married. Discuss your specific case with your attorney. Child Custody & Visitation This is the time that you spend with your children. If you and the other party cannot agree on the timeshare schedule for the children, then the court will make the decision based upon the best interests of the children. The timeshare schedule may differ based upon the age of the children and their needs. Mediation Services If you and the other party cannot resolve a custody or visitation dispute you may be required to attend a mediation session with a family court services mediator. Your attorney may not be allowed to attend the mediation with you but you can meet with your attorney ahead of time to prepare for the mediation. Child Support Property Division and Allocation Each case is different and will involve division of the community property assets and debts acquired by the parties during the marriage. Some property obtained by a party during marriage may be their separate property. Your attorney will have to advise you based upon the specific facts of your case. Spousal Support Domestic Violence Restraining Orders Civil Harassment Restraining Orders Restraining Orders If the other party is threatening or harassing you, the court may make an Order to protect you from certain types of contact. Discuss your specific case with your attorney. Education And Trainings 2012 UC Davis, King Hall School of Law. 2008 Sacramento State University. Graduated Cum Laude. Honors And Awards A Seat at the Table Ariel co-hosts this podcast on behalf of California Women Lawyers. Ariel and Summer interview the founding mothers of the organization and engage in thought provoking discussions about women in the law. Take a listen here: http://cwlseatatthetable.blogspot.com Super Lawyers Ariel is proud to announce she was named as a 2018 and 2019 Super Lawyers Rising. Business Networking International MVP Award November 2018 2018 Contra Costa County Bar Association Diversity Award Gold Level Contact with Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Ramean Behnam, Esq. - The Law Office Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Ramean Behnam, Esq. Home Our Attorneys Ramean Behnam, Esq. Ramean Behnam, Esq. Attorney [email protected] https://www.brownelllegal.com/ AVVO Ramean Behnam is a Junior Associate Attorney at the Law Office of Ariel Brownell, where he brings a strong background in corporate law and a commitment to client advocacy. Before joining the firm, Ramean spent three years as corporate counsel, advising businesses on compliance, contracts, and strategic growth. A Bay Area native, Ramean earned his undergraduate degree from the University of California, Davis, before attending McGeorge School of Law, where he honed his skills in legal analysis and advocacy. His professional path reflects both his business acumen and his dedication to helping individuals and families navigate challenging legal issues. Outside of the office, Ramean enjoys spending time outdoors and with his family. Whether on local trails or at community events, he values the balance between professional excellence and personal connection. A Seat at the Table Ariel co-hosts this podcast on behalf of California Women Lawyers. Ariel and Summer interview the founding mothers of the organization and engage in thought provoking discussions about women in the law. Take a listen here: http://cwlseatatthetable.blogspot.com Super Lawyers Ariel is proud to announce she was named as a 2018 and 2019 Super Lawyers Rising. Business Networking International MVP Award November 2018 2018 Contra Costa County Bar Association Diversity Award Gold Level Contact with Ramean Behnam, Esq. We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Restraining Order Lawyer Walnut Creek CA | The Law Offices Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Restraining Order Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Home Restraining Order Lawyer Do you need a Restraining Order Lawyer Walnut Creek CA? The most common reason for a Restraining Order in Walnut Creek, and anywhere else for that matter, is to protect someone from abuse or the threat of abuse. There are several kinds of restraining orders. One of the most common when dealing in a family law context is a domestic violence restraining order. What constitutes abuse for a domestic violence restraining order, also known as a DVRO, is not limited to the actual infliction of physical injury or assault (California Family Code Section 6203). In fact, a DVRO can be obtained for a variety of other reasons. It is a good idea to seek the advice of a Restraining Order Lawyer if anyone close to you is behaving in any of the following ways: Causing or attempting to cause you physical injury; Sexually assaulting you; Making you fear that you or another person is in danger of immediate, serious physical injury; Molesting, attacking, striking, battering (using force), or stalking you; Threatening or harassing you – either in person or through phone calls, emails, etc.; Destroying your personal property; and/or Disturbing your peace in a manner not described above. Any of the above can be grounds for seeking a Domestic Violence Restraining Order. Domestic Violence comes in many forms, and the Court takes all kinds of abuse seriously. To determine if a DVRO is appropriate in your case, contact the Restraining Order Lawyer Walnut Creek CA trusts. The law relating to domestic violence is set out in Division 10 of the California Family Code and is referred to as the Domestic Violence Prevention Act (“DVPA”). Remember, there does not have to be physical violence for a court to grant a restraining order. Emotional and psychological abuse can be enough to qualify for a restraining order. Each situation is different and requires careful analysis of the facts and circumstances. To qualify to seek a Domestic Violence Order, you and the person you want to restrain must have a certain relationship with one another. You and that person must be: married or registered domestic partners, divorced or separated, dating or used to date, living together or used to live together, parents together of a child, or closely related (parent, child, brother, sister, grandmother, grandfather, mother-in-law, father-in-law). If you do not have the necessary relationship to qualify for a domestic violence restraining order, you may still qualify for a civil harassment restraining order, an elder abuse restraining order, or another protective order. No matter the issue, contact the Restraining Order Lawyer Walnut Creek CA trusts, the Law Office of Ariel Brownell . Call today for a confidential consultation. We will evaluate the facts of your case and give you the expert advice necessary to help you determine if a restraining order is right for you. We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Family Lawyer Walnut Creek CA | The Law Offices Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? RESOLVING FAMILY CONFLICT WITH HEART services contact Our Goal for Your Case We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are, and guide you through the legal process smoothly. Compassion These times can be challenging, and we are here to make sure you understand every step of the proces... Read More Advocacy It's important that you have an advocate in your corner to protect all of your rights... Read More Problem Solving Before becoming involved in litigation, we will work to come to whatever out-of-court agreements we ... Read More These times can be challenging, and we are here to make sure you understand every step of the process... It's important that you have an advocate in your corner to protect all of your rights... Before becoming involved in litigation, we will work to come to whatever out-of-court agreements we can... Practice Areas Divorce Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Divorce in California can be a difficult and confusing process. There are countless forms, rules... Learn More Child Custody & Visitation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA This is the time that you spend with your children. If you and the other party cannot ... Learn More Child Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA The father and mother of a minor child have an equal responsibility to support their ... Learn More Property Allocation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Each case is different and will involve division of the community property assets ... Learn More Restraining Orders Lawyer Walnut Creek CA If the other party is threatening or harassing you, the court may make an Order ... Learn More Spousal Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA In California, the court-ordered amount of money that is paid from one spouse or ... Learn More Meet Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Ariel is a Certified Family Law Specialist, certified by the California State Bar Board of Legal Specialization. She is committed to finding the best resolution for you and your family and will advocate tirelessly to resolve your family conflict, with heart.   If you have questions about your family law matter, please use the button below to schedule a consultation. Ariel looks forward to speaking with you. Schedule Now We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Restraining Orders Lawyer Walnut Creek CA - The Law Office Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Restraining Orders Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Home Practice Restraining Orders Lawyer Restraining Orders Lawyer Walnut Creek CA December 1, 2015 By: Ariel Brownell Lee If a person is threatening or harassing you, the court may make an Order to protect you from certain types of contact. There are various forms of Restraining Orders. Each with their own eligibility requirements and steps that you must take to obtain the order. Emergency Protective Order (EPO) These are emergency orders granted in the field, often by an on-call judge. These orders are sought by law enforcement official upon probable cause that an EPO is necessary. They are only in effect for a short period of time. The purpose is to act as a stop-gap while the protected party pursues a more permanent order. Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DVRO) Domestic violence is one of the most difficult and emotional areas of family law. It is an increasingly common and unfortunate reality in our society. Domestic violence is disruptive and harmful. The first requirement in obtaining a DVRO is to show that the requisite relationship exists, or existed, between the Restrained Party and the Protected Person. These relationships include: spouse or former spouse; person you are or were engaged to; person you are or were dating; lover (former or current); mother or father of your child; a person who regularly lives in your home; and anyone closely related to you by blood, marriage, or adoption. Domestic violence in California is broadly defined. Physical violence is not required. Domestic Violence includes behavior like harassing, stalking, threatening, destroying personal property, and intimidating. Firearms restrictions are a part of a DVRO. Civil Harassment Restraining Order (CHRO) A civil harassment restraining order does not have the same relationship requirement as a domestic violence restraining order. However, there is a higher burden of proof the requesting party must show to obtain a long-term order. Physical abuse is not a requirement; cyber abuse can warrant a CHRO. Elder or Dependent Adult Abuse Restraining Order These restraining orders protect elders (defined as any person over 65) and dependent adults from physical and financial abuse, neglect, isolation, harm, deprivation, and abduction by a caregiver or other individual in a position of power. Ready to move forward? We are here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us to set up a consultation . Share Post About Lawyer Ariel Brownell Lee Search Areas of Practice Divorce Lawyer Walnut Cre... Child Custody & Visi... Child Support Lawyer Waln... Property Allocation Lawye... Restraining Orders Lawyer... Nullity/Annulment of Marr... Legal Separation Lawyer W... Parentage Action Lawyer W... Mediation Lawyer Walnut C... Spousal Support Lawyer Wa... Premarital Agreements Law... Postmarital Agreements La... Meet Ariel Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Attorney We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Sitemap - The Law Office Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Sitemap Home Sitemap Pages Achievements Blog Child Custody Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Child Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Consultation Consultation-old Contact Contact Ariel Today Divorce Lawyer Concord, CA Divorce Lawyer Concord, California Divorce Lawyer Contra Costa CA Divorce Lawyer Contra Costa County, CA Divorce Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Family Law Attorney Contra Costa County, CA Family Law Attorney Contra Costa County, California Family Law Attorney Walnut Creek CA Family Law Lawyer Concord, CA Family Law Lawyer Contra Costa CA Family Law Lawyer Contra Costa County, CA Family Law Lawyer Contra Costa County, California Family Law Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Family Law Lawyers Walnut Creek, CA Family Law Practice Areas Family Lawyer Walnut Creek, CA Guideline Calculator Home Firm Values Home Home Mediation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Mediation Lawyer Walnut Creek, CA Restraining Order Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Sitemap Spousal Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Practice Divorce Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Child Custody & Visitation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Child Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Property Allocation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Restraining Orders Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Legal Separation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Compassion Advocacy Problem Solving Road Accidents We have best Attorneys team Parentage Action Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Personal Injury Truck Accident Theft Case Best Case Strategy Review your Case Documents Mediation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Spousal Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Premarital Agreements Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Postmarital Agreements Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Our Attorneys Ramean Behnam, Esq. Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Contact | Family Lawyer Walnut Creek CA | The Law Office Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Consultation Home Consultation Schedule a 30-minute Consultation with Ariel Today Ariel is Certified as a Specialist in Family Law by the California State Bar Board of Legal Specialization. She will assess your matter, review any current pleadings or court orders, explain where you are currently at in the overall case, answer any questions you have, and provide specific advice on the next steps to take. She will quote a retainer after meeting with you and gaining an understanding of the complexity of your case and the scope of services you require. Click the button below to schedule a 30-minute Consultation, via Zoom, for only $200. Schedule Now Contact Information 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek CA 94596 925-255-0515 925-421-1529 925-293-0531 [email protected] https://brownelllegal.wpenginepowered.com/ When scheduling a consultation using the button above please do not include confidential or sensitive information. The scheduling of a consultation does not create an attorney-client relationship. Anything you provide will not be confidential or privileged unless the Law Office of Ariel Brownell has agreed to represent you. If you schedule a consultation, you confirm that you have read and understand this notice. Please feel free to call me at (925) 421-1529 to contact my office with any questions. We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Family Law Lawyer Walnut Creek, CA | Law Office of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Family Law Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Home Family Law Lawyer Walnut Family Law Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Mediation and Child Custody During Divorce As understood by a family law lawyer Walnut Creek, California relies on, the process of determining custody during divorce can be very painful for many parents, as they are trying to prove as to why they are the most suitable parent to obtain custody. While there are many levels to child custody, many parents simply want to be the primary parent who both lives with their children and makes important decisions regarding their care. Legal Custody The parent who is awarded legal custody has been granted the right to decide where children go to school, where they receive medical care, religious practices, after school activities, and more. It is fairly common for each parent to be awarded joint legal custody, where they share these duties of upbringing. If for any reason there is evidence that the children may be at-risk for harm, it is unlikely the judge is going to award that parent joint legal custody. For example, here are some reasons a judge may be concerned for the children’s safety: If a parent has shown to be abusive either physically, emotionally or mentally towards former spouse and/or children during the marriage If a parent has been neglectful and not contributed to taking care of children throughout the marriage If a parent had suffered or recently been diagnosed with a mental illness that could potentially lead to children being harmed in some way If a parent has in the past or currently been abusing substances, drugs and/or alcohol If a parent has served or is going to serve a significant duration of jail-time in the near future If a parent has plans to relocate to another city or state farther away from the other parent within the next year or so Physical Custody The parent awarded physical custody has been granted the right to have their children live with them in their chosen home. It is possible that both parents also share this duty, through joint physical custody. A judge may award both parents physical custody for the health of the children, so they continue to have equal time with their parents. In this way, each parent feels they still contribute to their children’s lives. The parents can try to agree upon a schedule on their own, or have it be decided by the judge. Common factors many parents many use when creating a schedule with their children include: The distance between each parent’s home Whether time with each parent will be based on a weekly or monthly routine Which holidays for the year will be spend with each parent Whether each parent can deal with seeing the other on a regular basis Why Parents Try Mediation First Many parents may attend mediation sessions with a family law lawyer in Walnut Creek, CA regarding child custody amidst divorce, before going to court. With mediation, a neutral third party that is trained in communication can help guide the conversation in an effective way with the help of a Walnut Creek, CA family law lawyer. In many cases, the parents do not want to court system to decide when they will see their children. So, if each spouse can put their hard feelings aside and work together, the results may be best for all family members. Benefits of Hiring a Walnut Creek, CA Family Law Lawyer As if the divorce wasn’t difficult enough, now you have to go through a child custody battle. A child custody case can be emotionally draining for both you and your ex, especially if the two of you aren’t on good terms. If the two of you can’t agree on a custody arrangement, the court will make the decision for you. In this case, it’s in your best interest to hire a family law lawyer from the Law Offices of Ariel Brownell. Here are some of the benefits of hiring a Walnut Creek, CA family law lawyer: Familiarity with Child Custody Cases A family law lawyer should have a lot of familiarity with child custody cases. He or she should be aware of possible issues that may come up and know how to handle them. For example, if your ex if fighting for full custody because of mistakes you’ve made in the past, your Walnut Creek, CA family law lawyer can provide several counter arguments. Ability to Negotiate Child Support Payments If your ex is the party who has to pay for child support, your family law lawyer can negotiate a fair amount. Your Walnut Creek CA lawyer will consider your current income, bills, and child’s needs when negotiating the child support amount. If you didn’t have a skilled lawyer on your side, you might not receive what you deserve. On the other hand, if you are the parent who is ordered to pay child support, your family law lawyer could make sure that you don’t overpay. Offer Objectivity When you are going through something as stressful as a child custody battle, it’s difficult to think clearly. You have all these different emotions running through your head and are more likely to make poor decisions. For example, you may be tempted to agree to a child custody arrangement you don’t really like just to get the process over with. If you have a family law lawyer on your head, he or she can offer objectivity and prevent you from make bad choices. Faster Resolution A child custody battle is no walk in the park, so you naturally want to resolve the case as quickly as possible. That’s why it’s important to have an experienced family law lawyer on your side. He or she will help you file the paperwork in a timely manner and minimize issues that could delay your case. Scheduling a Consultation with a Family Law Lawyer in Walnut Creek, CA If you have decided to work with a family law lawyer, the first step you have to take is schedule a consultation with one as soon as possible. During this appointment, a lawyer from the Law Offices of Ariel Brownell will ask you numerous background information about your case, such as when your divorce was finalized, how many children you have and if you’re currently working or not. If you have any questions of your own, don’t hesitate to ask them. Afterward, your lawyer will advise you the best way to proceed. f you and your co-parent are in the mist of determining the custody agreement for your child(ren), it may be in your best interest to contact a family law lawyer in Walnut Creek, CA from the Law Office of Ariel Brownell to alleviate the stress of a full court, litigation process. For more information, or to speak with a family law lawyer Walnut Creek, CA trusts, call us today. We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Divorce Lawyer Walnut Creek CA | Family Lawyer | The Law Office Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Divorce Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Home Practice Divorce Lawyer Walnut Cre Divorce Lawyer Walnut Creek CA December 1, 2015 By: Ariel Brownell Lee Divorce in California can be a difficult and confusing process. There are countless forms, rules, and procedures that must be followed. Knowing where you are in the process, and where you are going, can give you peace of mind and allow you to make logical, reasoned decisions about where to go. Every divorce is unique; however, there are certain steps and processes everyone must go through. Read on for an overview of the 10 basic steps for the divorce process. Click here to view a visual roadmap. Here are the 10 basic steps to a divorce in California: Step 1: Preparing to file for divorce [ Click here for a pre-divorce check list] Step 2: Filing for divorce Step 3: Serving the Petition and Summons Step 4: Responding to the Petition Step 5: Temporary Orders Step 6: Financial Disclosures Step 7: Discovery Step 8: Settlement Step 9: Trial Step 10: Final Judgment *Optional Step 11: Post-Judgment Issues Summary Dissolution If you’ve been married less than 5 years, don’t have many high-value assets, and don’t have children, you may qualify for a Summary Dissolution. Click here for more information: http://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/fl810.pdf Residency Requirements for Divorce 1. You must have lived in California for at least six months immediately preceeding filing; 2. You must have lived in your county for at least three months immediately preceeding filing; *If you don’t meet these requirements and still want to get divorced in the county, you can file for legal separation and amend to divorce once the residency requirements are met. Ready to move forward? We are here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us to set up a consultation . Share Post About Lawyer Ariel Brownell Lee Search Areas of Practice Divorce Lawyer Walnut Cre... Child Custody & Visi... Child Support Lawyer Waln... Property Allocation Lawye... Restraining Orders Lawyer... Nullity/Annulment of Marr... Legal Separation Lawyer W... Parentage Action Lawyer W... Mediation Lawyer Walnut C... Spousal Support Lawyer Wa... Premarital Agreements Law... Postmarital Agreements La... Meet Ariel Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Attorney We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Advocacy - The Law Office Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Advocacy Home Practice Advocacy Advocacy November 30, 2015 By: Ariel Brownell Lee It’s important that you have an advocate in your corner to protect all of your rights Share Post About Lawyer Ariel Brownell Lee Search Areas of Practice Divorce Lawyer Walnut Cre... Child Custody & Visi... Child Support Lawyer Waln... Property Allocation Lawye... Restraining Orders Lawyer... Nullity/Annulment of Marr... Legal Separation Lawyer W... Parentage Action Lawyer W... Mediation Lawyer Walnut C... Spousal Support Lawyer Wa... Premarital Agreements Law... Postmarital Agreements La... Meet Ariel Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Attorney We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Derick Lee, Assistant - The Law Office Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Derick Lee, Assistant Home Our Attorneys Derick Lee, Assistant Derick Lee, Assistant Assistant 925-255-0515 [email protected] https://www.brownelllegal.com AVVO Derick brings a wealth of experience and a passion for efficiency to our team. A proud graduate of Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Derick earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering before embarking on a dynamic career with industry leaders like Gallo Winery, Facebook, and Gatorade as well as a couple startups. After years of driving success in these roles, Derick made the pivotal decision to transition into the legal field, dedicating his expertise to optimizing operations at Ariel’s law firm. As Ariel’s trusted assistant, Derick ensures the firm runs smoothly and efficiently, creating a seamless experience for both the team and our clients. A Seat at the Table Ariel co-hosts this podcast on behalf of California Women Lawyers. Ariel and Summer interview the founding mothers of the organization and engage in thought provoking discussions about women in the law. Take a listen here: http://cwlseatatthetable.blogspot.com Super Lawyers Ariel is proud to announce she was named as a 2018 and 2019 Super Lawyers Rising. Business Networking International MVP Award November 2018 2018 Contra Costa County Bar Association Diversity Award Gold Level Contact with Derick Lee, Assistant We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Family Lawyer Walnut Creek CA | The Law Offices Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? RESOLVING FAMILY CONFLICT WITH HEART services contact Our Goal for Your Case We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are, and guide you through the legal process smoothly. Compassion These times can be challenging, and we are here to make sure you understand every step of the proces... Read More Advocacy It's important that you have an advocate in your corner to protect all of your rights... Read More Problem Solving Before becoming involved in litigation, we will work to come to whatever out-of-court agreements we ... Read More These times can be challenging, and we are here to make sure you understand every step of the process... It's important that you have an advocate in your corner to protect all of your rights... Before becoming involved in litigation, we will work to come to whatever out-of-court agreements we can... Practice Areas Divorce Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Divorce in California can be a difficult and confusing process. There are countless forms, rules... Learn More Child Custody & Visitation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA This is the time that you spend with your children. If you and the other party cannot ... Learn More Child Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA The father and mother of a minor child have an equal responsibility to support their ... Learn More Property Allocation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Each case is different and will involve division of the community property assets ... Learn More Restraining Orders Lawyer Walnut Creek CA If the other party is threatening or harassing you, the court may make an Order ... Learn More Spousal Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA In California, the court-ordered amount of money that is paid from one spouse or ... Learn More Meet Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Ariel is a Certified Family Law Specialist, certified by the California State Bar Board of Legal Specialization. She is committed to finding the best resolution for you and your family and will advocate tirelessly to resolve your family conflict, with heart.   If you have questions about your family law matter, please use the button below to schedule a consultation. Ariel looks forward to speaking with you. Schedule Now We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Problem Solving - The Law Office Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Problem Solving Home Practice Problem Solving Problem Solving November 30, 2015 By: Ariel Brownell Lee Before becoming involved in litigation, we will work to come to whatever out-of-court agreements we can Share Post About Lawyer Ariel Brownell Lee Search Areas of Practice Divorce Lawyer Walnut Cre... Child Custody & Visi... Child Support Lawyer Waln... Property Allocation Lawye... Restraining Orders Lawyer... Nullity/Annulment of Marr... Legal Separation Lawyer W... Parentage Action Lawyer W... Mediation Lawyer Walnut C... Spousal Support Lawyer Wa... Premarital Agreements Law... Postmarital Agreements La... Meet Ariel Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Attorney We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Mediation Lawyer Walnut Creek, CA - The Law Office Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Mediation Lawyer Walnut Creek, CA Home Mediation Lawyer Walnut C Mediation Lawyer Walnut Creek, CA Mediation and Child Custody During Divorce As understood by a mediation lawyer Walnut Creek, CA relies on, the process of determining custody during divorce can be very painful for many parents, as they are trying to prove as to why they are the most suitable parent to obtain custody. While there are many levels to child custody, many parents simply want to be the primary parent who both lives with their children and makes important decisions regarding their care. Legal Custody The parent who is awarded legal custody has been granted the right to decide where children go to school, where they receive medical care, religious practices, after school activities, and more. It is fairly common for each parent to be awarded joint legal custody, where they share these duties of upbringing. If for any reason there is evidence that the children may be at-risk for harm, it is unlikely the judge is going to award that parent joint legal custody. For example, here are some reasons a judge may be concerned for the children’s safety: If a parent has shown to be abusive either physically, emotionally or mentally towards former spouse and/or children during the marriage If a parent has been neglectful and not contributed to taking care of children throughout the marriage If a parent had suffered or recently been diagnosed with a mental illness that could potentially lead to children being harmed in some way If a parent has in the past or currently been abusing substances, drugs and/or alcohol If a parent has served or is going to serve a significant duration of jail-time in the near future If a parent has plans to relocate to another city or state farther away from the other parent within the next year or so Physical Custody The parent awarded physical custody has been granted the right to have their children live with them in their chosen home. It is possible that both parents also share this duty, through joint physical custody. A judge may award both parents physical custody for the health of the children, so they continue to have equal time with their parents. In this way, each parent feels they still contribute to their children’s lives. The parents can try to agree upon a schedule on their own, or have it be decided by the judge. Common factors many parents many use when creating a schedule with their children include: The distance between each parent’s home Whether time with each parent will be based on a weekly or monthly routine Which holidays for the year will be spend with each parent Whether each parent can deal with seeing the other on a regular basis Why Parents Try Mediation First Many parents may attend mediation sessions with a mediation lawyer in Walnut Creek, CA regarding child custody amidst divorce, before going to court. With mediation, a neutral third party that is trained in communication can help guide the conversation in an effective way with the help of a Walnut Creek, CA mediation lawyer. In many cases, the parents do not want to court system to decide when they will see their children. So, if each spouse can put their hard feelings aside and work together, the results may be best for all family members. If you and your co-parent are in the mist of determining the custody agreement for your childe(ren), it may be in your best interest to contact a mediation lawyer in Walnut Creek, CA from the Law Office of Ariel Brownell to alleviate the stress of a full court, litigation process. For more information, or to speak with a mediation lawyer Walnut Creek, CA trusts, call us today. We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Family Law Practice Areas | Walnut Creek CA | The Law Office Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Family Law Practice Areas Home Family Law Practice Areas Divorce Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Read More Child Custody & Visitation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Read More Child Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Read More Property Allocation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Read More Restraining Orders Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Read More Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Read More Legal Separation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Read More Parentage Action Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Read More Mediation Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Read More Spousal Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Read More Premarital Agreements Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Read More Postmarital Agreements Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Read More We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Child Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA - The Law Office Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Child Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA Home Practice Child Support Lawyer Waln Child Support Lawyer Walnut Creek CA December 1, 2015 By: Ariel Brownell Lee The father and mother, or same sex parents, of a minor child have an equal responsibility to support their child in the manner suitable to the child’s circumstances [CA Family Code Section 3900]. This duty continues as to an unmarried minor child until he or she completes the 12th grade or attains the age of 19 years, whichever occurs first [CA Family Code Section 3901]. California has established uniform guidelines support standards which Courts are obligated to follow, except in limited circumstance including good cause and party agreement. The amount of base child support depends on two main factors: the amount of time each parent spends with the children (timeshare) and each parent’s income. There are limited offsets to income that are considered in this calculation. Child support cannot be used as a bargaining chip to gain advantage in the matter. It is a non-elective, non-waivable obligation. The benefit belongs to the child, not the custodial parent. Common Child Support Issues Add-on child support: In addition to base child support, there are mandatory and discretionary add-ons. Mandatory add-ons include child care costs so a parent can work, uninsured medical expenses, and education expenses. Parents are obligated to share these costs equally. Discretionary add-ons include the child’s activities like sports or other extra curricular activities. Modification: Child support that is under guideline can always be modified at any time. Guideline support can also be modified if there is a change in circumstances, like a change in timeshare or the income of either parent. Regardless of the reason, it is important to file for a modification as soon as you know it’s appropriate to reserve your right to reimbursment of overpaid support. Child support cannot be modified prior to the date of the request for order. Arrears: This is past-due child support. Arrears must be paid and are subject to interest at the legal rate, currently 10%. Click here to estimate your monthly child support payments. Ready to move forward? We are here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us to set up a consultation . Share Post About Lawyer Ariel Brownell Lee Search Areas of Practice Divorce Lawyer Walnut Cre... Child Custody & Visi... Child Support Lawyer Waln... Property Allocation Lawye... Restraining Orders Lawyer... Nullity/Annulment of Marr... Legal Separation Lawyer W... Parentage Action Lawyer W... Mediation Lawyer Walnut C... Spousal Support Lawyer Wa... Premarital Agreements Law... Postmarital Agreements La... Meet Ariel Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Attorney We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter. Firm Values - The Law Office Of Ariel Brownell Phone: 925-255-0515 Email: [email protected] Consultation Toggle navigation PRACTICE AREAS Child Custody & Visitation Child Support Divorce Legal Separation Mediation Nullity/Annulment of Marriage Parentage Action Premarital Agreements Postmarital Agreements Property Allocation Restraining Orders Spousal Support OUR TEAM Ariel Brownell Lee, Esq., CFLS Rebecca Joyce Jones, Esq., CFLS Ramean Behnam, Esq. Jocelyn Lewis, Paralegal Derick Lee, Assistant ACHIEVEMENTS FIRM VALUES Hi, How Can We Help You? Firm Values Home Firm Values Firm Values DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION The attorneys and staff at the Law Office of Ariel Brownell are committed to an inclusive and diverse workplace and is a recognized leader in seeking and promoting diversity. We recognize that a diversity of ideas, backgrounds, and experiences is crucial to fulfilling this commitment. The firm remains committed to recruiting and supporting diverse candidates. We recognize that a diverse team makes us stronger and more effective. We will continue to have an open, fair, and inclusive workplace. The firm shall strive to be as diverse as the communities and clients that it serves. We shall also strive to provide all our team members with the opportunity to achieve their full and best potential. The firm shall: Create and maintain an environment of respect for all lawyers and staff. Maintain programs to support and mentor diversity. Arrange professional and networking opportunities designed to meet the needs of our diverse lawyers and staff. Work to ensure the rate of retention and advancement of lawyers and staff of diverse backgrounds. “Implicit Association Tests” (IATs) can tap those hidden, or automatic, stereotypes and prejudices that circumvent conscious control. Project Implicit—a collaborative research effort between researchers at Harvard University, the University of Virginia, and University of Washington—offers dozens of such tests. Take a test here to check your implicit bias: Implicit.Harvard.Edu We are a boutique law firm located in Walnut Creek. We understand how difficult and emotional family law cases are and strive to provide quality care and customer service in guiding you through the legal process. Resources Guideline Calculator Child Custody Child Support Divorce Family Law Restraining Order Spousal Support Mediation Contact Us 1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: 925-255-0515 Fax: 925-293-0531 Email: [email protected] https://brownelllegal.com The Law Office of Ariel Brownell, APC © 2026, All Rights Reserved Sitemap - Injury Law Firms and Family Law Firms Powered by Matador Solutions, LLC Disclaimer: The information contained in the website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any matter.