◈ Homepage — https://www.longbeachlaw.com/Contact us today. We are located in Long Beach on the corner of Pacific and 8th LONG BEACH LAW (562) 621 6300 MAIN AREAS OF PRACTICE CRIMINAL LAW FAMILY LAW ONLINE UNCONTESTED DIVORCE CIVIL LAW ESTATE PLANNING & PROBATE INVESTIGATION FAQ ABOUT US LBL OVERVIEW MEET "STEPHANIE" MEET "REBA" CASES ORGANIZATIONS CONTACT WE ARE SEEING CLIENTS IN OFFICE OR WEBCAMERA APPOINTMENTS NEWS: Long Beach Law has been selected multiple times as one of the Top Lawyers Need legal help? Stuck navigating the court and legal system? Are family issues becoming more ugly and highly contentious? Need an attorney who can draft motions, negotiate settlements, and handle your case through trial? Call LONG BEACH LAW Today (562) 621 6300 NEWS Attorney Reba Birmingham selected to be recognized by Senator Lena Gonzalez in honor of Women’s History Month   We will take you from Womb (Adoption) to Tomb (Probate) We are experienced and committed attorneys who practice in all courthouses in the five counties of Los Angeles, Orange County, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego but have also had cases in Martinez, Ventura County, Indio and El Centro. Our dedicated focus, strategic planning and hands on team approach has helped clients, companies and national organizations reach their goals and get peace of mind for clients and their families. We can help you settle and move on. CRIMINAL LAW CIVIL LAW ESTATE PLANNING & PROBATE FAMILY LAW F & A Federal Credit Union Please be sure to let us know if you belong to F&A Federal Credit Union when you schedule your consultation. Long Beach Law, Inc. and F & A are working together to provide estate planning services to their members. Client Testimonials "We retained Reba and her law firm, Long Beach Law, to help us through a probate matter. We don’t live in California and the process of finding the right lawyer out of state felt very daunting. The moment we spoke to Reba and Kyle we knew this was the right firm for us. They are sincere and genuine and truly do care about their clients.  Reba fought hard for us and helped us to accomplish all we set out to with our case. We wouldn’t hesitate to retain Reba again if we needed legal counsel in California. Sincerely, B&J L." "I can’t thank you enough for the amazing help you guys have been, since the court date I feel like I have my life back..." Grateful for Audrey Stephanie Loftin and Reba Birmingham. Sometimes you meet people who just have their heart in the right place and go above and beyond..." "I'm always thankful that you helped me give my children a better opportunity in life. They are great kids that I'm confident they'll turn into successful role model citizens such as you, your wife, myself and many other successful women..." TAKE IMMEDIATE ACTION TO ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS Mission To provide solutions to your life's more complex problems. We understand the complex and sometimes confusing world of the California court system. Our guiding principles are justice, fairness and integrity. Consultation We know Justice is sometimes "just us." We will be your voice and advocate as we have been for our clients for more than 25 years in business. Call Today (562) 621-6300   CASE RESULTS IN THE NEWS MEET "STEPHANIE" MEET "REBA" OFFICE LOCATION 782 Pacific Ave., Long Beach, CA 90813 Office Hours: Monday-Thursday 8:30am - 5:00pm Friday 8:30am - 12:00pm Closed Saturday, Sunday and Major Holidays CONTACT LONG BEACH LAW Call (562) 621 6300 or fill out the form below Make sure you check the spelling of your email address and your phone number before submitting the contact request. Completing this form does not establish an attorney-client relationship. After a consultation we will decide if we are able to assist you. Name First Name (required) Last Name (required) Phone (required) Email Address (required) Subject (required) Message (required) SUBMIT LONG BEACH LAW, 782 PACIFIC AVE, LONG BEACH, CA, 90813562 621 6300 CALL Long Beach Law TODAY! Family Law - Civil Law - Criminal Law - Estate Planning & Probate This website is meant as informative and not formal legal advice nor attorney-client relationship ◈ Interior Pages — 14 pages crawledEstate Planning & Probate — Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ Estate Planning & Probate Wills & Trust - Trust Administration - Probate NEWS: On November 3rd, 2020, Property Tax Law was radically overhauled with a Constitutional Amendment (Proposition 19). This law repealed Proposition 58, which had been in place since 1986 and exempted children from reappraisal of real estate (with certain limitations). If you own real estate and desire to pass your property to your children, make an appointment to have your trust reviewed right away. The NEW LAW goes into effect February 16, 2021, there is only a short period of time to make changes. California Proposition 13 , the Tax Limitations Initiative, was on the June 6, 1978 ballot in California as an initiated constitutional amendment. The measure was approved. (From Ballotpedia) The ballot initiative was designed to: require that properties be taxed at no more than 1 percent of their full cash value shown on the 1975-1976 assessment rolls and limit annual increases of assessed (taxable) value to the inflation rate or 2 percent, whichever was less. upon the transfer of properties, allow them to be reassessed at one percent of their sale price and reset the limit on annual increases of assessed value. prohibit the state legislature from enacting new taxes on the value or sale of properties. require a two-thirds vote of the state legislature to increase non-property taxes. require local governments to refer special taxes to the ballot and require a two-thirds vote of electors. make the state government responsible for distributing property tax revenue among local governments. California Proposition 19 , the Property Tax Transfers, Exemptions, and Revenue for Wildfire Agencies and Counties Amendment, was on the ballot in California as a legislatively referred constitutional amendment on November 3, 2020. Proposition 19 was approved. (From Ballotpedia) A "yes" vote supported this constitutional amendment to: allow eligible homeowners to transfer their tax assessments anywhere within the state and allow tax assessments to be transferred to a more expensive home with an upward adjustment; increase the number of times that persons over 55 years old or with severe disabilities can transfer their tax assessments from one to three; require that inherited homes that are not used as principal residences, such as second homes or rentals, be reassessed at market value when transferred; and allocate additional revenue or net savings resulting from the ballot measure to wildfire agencies and counties. What this means is that if your child inherits your house, and does not want to live in it, that house will be reassessed for property tax purposes to fair market value. YOU LOSE YOUR PROP 13 PROTECTIONS. If your child wants to live in the property as their primary residence after your passing, they inherit your low tax base. BUT THEY MUST CLAIM IT. Prop 13 tax protection does not happen automatically. The Grandparent to Grandchild exemption from reassessment WILL BE GONE after February 16, 2021. What can you do? Get to an estate planner and take action before your options are greatly limited. Time is of the essence. If you do not make your own estate plan, the State of California will do it for you. Make sure your estate planning docs get reviewed at least every five years! Whether you need a will, a living trust, powers of attorney, or probate, we can advise you. We will make sure you have HIPPA release language and updates in the law on all your estate planning documents. Guardianships Guardianships are sought when minors need someone to act "in loco parentis" or in place of the parents. They expire when the minor reaches the age of eighteen. You can nominate who you would want to apply to be the Guardian of your minor child in a Will.   Wills & Trust Trust administration Probate If you own real property, you may need a trust. There are also some other options. Come in for a no cost consultation or trust review. After a decedent passes, notifications must be sent and new deeds made. We can help you administer the trust. From "Womb to Tomb" we are here for your legal needs. We regularly appear in Los Angeles and will personally be there for your case. Contact Us Back to Top Long Beach Law, 782 Pacific Ave, Long Beach, CA, 90813 562 621 6300 CALL Long Beach Law TODAY! Family Law - Civil Law - Criminal Law - Estate Planning & Probate This website is meant as informative and not formal legal advice nor attorney-client relationship LBL Overview — Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations (for "in the news" and galleries scroll down) Our Firm  Audrey Stephanie Loftin founded Long Beach Law, Inc. December 23, 2004. Prior to that time, we were AS Loftin & Associates. You might remember us from our building on Broadway. Now located in downtown Long Beach, Stephanie’s vision was to create a law firm that provides quality services to serve her community’s family law, criminal, limited civil and estate planning needs. Our iconic building on 8th and Pacific Avenue was first a Texaco Gas Station, built in 1938. The mission design is a nod to California’s history of Spanish Missions up and down the coast. In 1980, the building was repurposed to “The Filling Station” a favorite local restaurant. After that the famous Caribbean restaurant “Cha Cha Cha” for years before its final repurpose into our historic Law Office. We practice in all courthouses in the five counties of Los Angeles, Orange County, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego but have also had cases in Martinez, Ventura County, Indio and El Centro. I recently traveled to Bakersfield for a successful Contempt defense.   Rebecca "Reba" Birmingham Attorney Audrey "Stephanie" Loftin Founder - Attorney Mark Office Coordinator Call us today to schedule a consultation (562) 621 6300 CONTACT In The News December 2017: Attorney Reba Birmingham awarded "Best of Long Beach"         October 21st, 2016: "The Donald Snow Community Advocate Award" - Founder of Long Beach Law, Stephanie Loftin and Bruce Nickerson (of Law Office of Bruce Nickerson) recognized for her LGBTQ achievements. View some of the photos in the slide show. October 21st, 2016: LambdaDems Human Rights Banquet in Long Beach. Audrey "Stephanie" Loftin & Bruce Nickerson recognized with "The Donald Snow Community Advocate Award" . Other award recipients were: Hon. Anthony Rendon, Speaker of the Assembly (Michael Lonergan Champion of Change Award) - Hon. Lena Gonzalez, Long Beach City Council (Franklin Cook Visionary Award) - Hon. Jordan Brandman, Anaheim City Council (Jean Harris Person of the Year) - Hon. Doug Otto, Long Beach City College Trustee (Jenny Oropeza Ally of the Year) - Long Beach Firefighters Local 372 (Rob Kramme Political Action Award).   May 13th, 2016: Founder of Long Beach Law, Stephanie Loftin celebrated for her LGBTQ achievements. Induction ceremony at the Harvey Milk Promenade Park in Long Beach. View some of the photos in the slide show.     May 13, 2016: Harvey Milk Promenade Park - Equality Plaza Honoring local Long Beach LGBTQ Leaders: Jim Deaton, Lee Glaze, Audrey Stephanie Loftin and Marsha Naify. Presented by: Harvey Milk Promenade Park, Mayor Robert Garcia and Councilwoman Lena Gonzalez of Long Beach, CA.   April 29th, 2016: Judge slams gay sex stings by Long Beach police, calling them discriminatory. Click to read LA Times article .   October 1st, 2015: Senator Ricardo Lara's "Excellence in Business Award 2015" recognized the team of Long Beach Law.   June 26th, 2015: Married couple and attorneys Stephanie Loftin and Reba Birmingham explain Supreme Court ruling on marriage equality during Long Beach rally. More articles about "Long Beach Law" attorneys July 3rd, 2015: LGBT community, its supporters, celebrate SCOTUS ruling on same-sex marriage (Signal Tribune article) June 26th, 2015: Long Beach Crowd Celebrates U.S. Supreme Court Ruling (5-4) Legalizing As Fundamental Constitutional Right Same-Sex Marriage Nationwide (LB Report article) October 6th, 2014: Inland Empire residents react to Supreme Court’s rejection of same-sex marriage appeals (SB Sun article) November 19th, 2013: Long Beach Businesswomen Discuss Benefits Of Lending To Women-Owned Businesses (LB Business Journal article) November 1st, 2012: Bravehearts In Long Beach (Lesbian News article) March 17th, 2011: Undercover Decoys Targeting Calif. Gay Men? (Edge Media article) May 2008: Ellis v. Arriaga (Lamda Legal case information) April 30th, 2008: Lambda Legal - Court Hears Oral Arguments in Case of Gay Orange County Man Whose Domestic Partner Misled Him By Never Registering Partnership with the State: Ellis v. Arriaga (Lamda Legal news) January 31st, 2008: LAMBDA honors Long Beach women at banquet (PAGE 10) (Signal Tribune article) March 19th, 1999: Is That a Badge in Your Pocket? Or are you just happy to see me? (OC Weekly article)   Back to Top Long Beach Law, 782 Pacific Ave, Long Beach, CA, 90813 562 621 6300 CALL Long Beach Law TODAY! Family Law - Civil Law - Criminal Law - Estate Planning & Probate This website is meant as informative and not formal legal advice nor attorney-client relationship Criminal Law - Long Beach Law - Criminal Defense — Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ Criminal Law - Nobody Talks - Everybody Walks... DUI & Drug Charges - Lewd Conduct - Domestic Violence - Theft Read the Statement of Decision pdf regarding the 2016 “People v Moroney in Long Beach regarding Lewd Conduct. Criminal defense lawyer A. Stephanie Loftin Arrested? - Stephanie says “You Have the Right to Remain Silent” which means, Shut up! When accused, many people believe that by telling the authorities the whole story (like with your mommy when you broke her vase) all will be forgiven and people will understand. This is a fantasy in the criminal court system. If you want an aggressive legal defense by dedicated, diligent lawyers, help us help you by not spilling your guts. Bring us the facts and our experienced lawyers will evaluate your case and develop our preliminary strategy before even setting foot in the courtroom. People are people, however, if you have been a "Chatty Cathy" , we can help mitigate that damage. No matter what you have done, felony or misdemeanor, you deserve someone to hold the prosecution’s feet to the fire on your behalf. They have the burden of proof, you are innocent until proven guilty. Why pay for a lawyer? Its true that the Public Defender does not cost, and if you have no funds, this may be your only option. Remember, however, you get what you pay for. Although there are many dedicated public defenders, there are way too many cases for each of them to give you their undivided attention.  Some of them are even "dumpsters." With your personal liberty at stake, don't risk it! If you want an aggressive legal defense , tailored to your specific facts, come in for a case evaluation.  You will receive the opinion of a dedicated, diligent, experienced lawyer, who can guide you through your legal options. So whether  you have been recently arrested, or are already facing trial, call us now. Stephanie has handled misdemeanor, felony, and third strike cases successfully. Whether you are guilty or not, protect your rights, and make 'em prove their case! To bail or not to bail out? Your Arraignment, where you first plead not guilty, is supposed to happen within 48 hours of arrest. It is fairly routine to see arraignment 72 hours after arrest, especially if you were nabbed on a Friday. Unless you can post the entire bail, you will end up paying a 10% fee to a bail bondsman, which is non-refundable, in order to "bail out" prior to your court date. If you have only a few thousand dollars to spend on your defense,  it is sometimes better to wait for your arraignment and put the money where it will count the most. Every person is different, and only you can decide. Remember to learn your loved ones phone numbers , the jailers will take your cell phone! Most importantly, don't just plead! No matter what misinformation you hear, an effective attorney can often get you reduced time, or no jail time at all depending on the facts of your case.  Drug & DUI Charges If you are pulled over for Drunk Driving or Driving under the Influence, you must submit to Preliminary Alcohol Screening. To refuse to take the test will expose you to one year driver’s license revocation—a fate worse than death in our sprawling metropolis. A “Refusal” is a separate misdemeanor. If your driver’s license is taken at the scene, you only have ten days to set a DMV hearing, or that right is waived. We will guide you through the parallel action taken by the Administrative Law process, that may or may not decide the case the same way the criminal court proceeding did. Remember, if asked by an officer to search your person or your car, “Just say no.” If arrested, the only thing you should say is “I want my lawyer.” Having an experienced professional on your side will make all the difference.  Lewd Conduct Stephanie Loftin has successfully taken many lewd conduct cases to trial, and has negotiateda plea in hundreds of others. Many police officers do not know the nuances of this law, and you can read more about this in the following OC Weekly article   as well as LA TIMES article regarding the 2016 win in Long Beach. Read the Statement of Decision pdf in “People v Moroney”. Domestic Violence Stephanie started a Domestic Violence clinic for battered women in the early ninties, and put on clinics, free of charge, until such time as the organization grew to have full time counsel. She has represented countless women and men and understands it is not easy to "just leave."  Theft Crimes In recent years, prosecutors have been guilty of overcharging crimes. In one case, due to drug addiction, a nineteen year old stole a friend's credit card and used it to buy less than $100.00 at a Target. She was charged with felony commercial burglary (for entering Target with felonious intent), residential burglary (for taking out of the purse at the person's home) and had the book thrown at her.  Even the "victim" was appalled. This was her first offense, but the D.A. wanted some serious time. With careful negotiation, she was able to spend a year in a residential treatment facility, which addressed the root cause of the problem.  Contact US TODAY Back to Top Long Beach Law, 782 Pacific Ave, Long Beach, CA, 90813 562 621 6300 CALL Long Beach Law TODAY! Family Law - Civil Law - Criminal Law - Estate Planning & Probate This website is meant as informative and not formal legal advice nor attorney-client relationship Family Law — Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ Family Law Paternity - Parentage - Custody - Divorce - Restraining Orders - LGBT Family Building Eat Drink and Remarry. Dissolution, sometimes called Divorce, is one of the most stressful things a person can go through, for both parents and children. If you have been served with custody and divorce papers, or need to dissolve your marriage, you need a family law attorney with significant experience in this area to guide you through it. This is a complex area of the law, and we will walk with you and your children through it.  This is especially true in cases of Domestic Violence, you need an advocate. The court system, besides being intimidating, is also very impacted. If both sides agree, your family law case can be heard by a private judge, and the orders will be binding. You still need a lawyer to represent you, but can get your matter decided in a reasonable amount of time.   The first step is making a consultation appointment for family law. There you can discuss your parenting plan, or lack thereof, ask questions about your particular situation, and even find out what child or spousal support may be ordered by the court. So if you care about ... knowing your rights, protecting your kids, and  getting your life back, we can help. We also do step parent adoption, and termination of parental rights when necessary. Paternity & Parentage A person is presumed to be the natural parent of a child if the "presumed" parent and the child's natural mother are or have been married to each other  and the child is born during the marriage, or 300 days after divorce. Also if the presumed parent is on the child's birth certificate, or if you openly held the child out as yours! Biology is not the be all and end all, but this area is more complex than you may think.  Dissolution & Divorce A good and healthy divorce can be much better than a toxic marriage. There are wait times, however. The earliest a court can restore your status as a single person is six months. The date the "Respondent" is personally served starts the clock. Child Custody & Support Instead of "visitation" most courts use the term "Time Share" to recognize that children need and want quality time with both parents. We have experience in negotiating a plan with the opposing party or counsel that keeps your children's best interests in mind.  Same Sex Couples & LGBTQ Families Its just Marriage. Stephanie and Reba have been recognized for their LGBTQ advocacy. Now that all fifty states recognize marriage for same-sex couples, you might think this is an area of settled law, it is not. There are still some things you need to know, especially if you were in a long term unmarried partnership. Don't leave assets on the table by failing to file a "Marvin" claim when needed. This can apply to long term heterosexual couples too! Restraining Orders Intending on getting a restraining order is very different than actually having one.  There are different burdens of proof depending on whether you are seeking a Domestic Violence or Civil Restraining Order. An Elder Abuse restraining order is also available for persons over 62 years old. We are not afraid to fight to protect you nor are we afraid to defend you against false allegations. Division of Property California divides property 50/50. All property acquired during the marriage are split equally, unless acquired by gift, devise or descent. Separate property is anything you owned before marriage or acquired after the date of separation. Some property has both separate and community property characteristics. For instance: A family residence could have been purchased by a separate property down payment, but the "community" made the mortgage payments. Sometimes a special accountant is needed to determine each parties interest.  Step Parent Adoption The most common scenario is where a couple marries, and one has a child from a previous relationship. These are fairly simple procedures unless the other biological parent does not consent. In cases such as this, the adoption may still be possible, and our knowledgeable adoption attorney can advise you on your options. CONTACT US TODAY Back to Top Long Beach Law, 782 Pacific Ave, Long Beach, CA, 90813 562 621 6300 CALL Long Beach Law TODAY! Family Law - Civil Law - Criminal Law - Estate Planning & Probate This website is meant as informative and not formal legal advice nor attorney-client relationship Contact Long Beach Law — Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact Interested in working together? Long Beach Law 782 Pacific Avenue Long Beach, CA 90813 Phone (562) 621 6300 (In person consultation by appointment only) Make a Payment   Make sure you check the spelling of your email address and your phone number before submitting the contact request. Completing this form does not establish an attorney-client relationship. After a consultation we will decide if we are able to assist you.     Back to Top Long Beach Law, 782 Pacific Ave, Long Beach, CA, 90813 562 621 6300 CALL Long Beach Law TODAY! Family Law - Civil Law - Criminal Law - Estate Planning & Probate This website is meant as informative and not formal legal advice nor attorney-client relationship Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact we are seeing clients in office or webcamera appointments NEWS: Long Beach Law has been selected multiple times as one of the Top Lawyers Need legal help? Stuck navigating the court and legal system? Are family issues becoming more ugly and highly contentious? Need an attorney who can draft motions, negotiate settlements, and handle your case through trial? Call LONG BEACH LAW Today (562) 621 6300   NEWS Attorney Reba Birmingham selected to be recognized by Senator Lena Gonzalez in honor of Women’s History Month   We will take you from Womb (Adoption) to Tomb (Probate) We are experienced and committed attorneys who practice in all courthouses in the five counties of Los Angeles, Orange County, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego but have also had cases in Martinez, Ventura County, Indio and El Centro. Our dedicated focus, strategic planning and hands on team approach has helped clients, companies and national organizations reach their goals and get peace of mind for clients and their families. We can help you settle and move on.   Criminal Law Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Family Law   F & A Federal Credit Union Please be sure to let us know if you belong to F&A Federal Credit Union when you schedule your consultation. Long Beach Law, Inc. and F & A are working together to provide estate planning services to their members.   Client Testimonials "We retained Reba and her law firm, Long Beach Law, to help us through a probate matter. We don’t live in California and the process of finding the right lawyer out of state felt very daunting. The moment we spoke to Reba and Kyle we knew this was the right firm for us. They are sincere and genuine and truly do care about their clients.  Reba fought hard for us and helped us to accomplish all we set out to with our case. We wouldn’t hesitate to retain Reba again if we needed legal counsel in California. Sincerely, B&J L." "I can’t thank you enough for the amazing help you guys have been, since the court date I feel like I have my life back..." Grateful for Audrey Stephanie Loftin and Reba Birmingham. Sometimes you meet people who just have their heart in the right place and go above and beyond..." "I'm always thankful that you helped me give my children a better opportunity in life. They are great kids that I'm confident they'll turn into successful role model citizens such as you, your wife, myself and many other successful women..." Take Immediate Action to achieve your goals Mission To provide solutions to your life's more complex problems. We understand the complex and sometimes confusing world of the California court system. Our guiding principles are justice, fairness and integrity.   Consultation We know Justice is sometimes "just us." We will be your voice and advocate as we have been for our clients for more than 25 years in business. Call Today (562) 621-6300   Case Results   In the News   Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Office location 782 Pacific Ave., Long Beach, CA 90813 Office Hours: Monday-Thursday 8:30am - 5:00pm Friday 8:30am - 12:00pm Closed Saturday, Sunday and Major Holidays   Contact long beach law Call (562) 621 6300 or fill out the form below Make sure you check the spelling of your email address and your phone number before submitting the contact request. Completing this form does not establish an attorney-client relationship. After a consultation we will decide if we are able to assist you. Back to Top Long Beach Law, 782 Pacific Ave, Long Beach, CA, 90813 562 621 6300 CALL Long Beach Law TODAY! Family Law - Civil Law - Criminal Law - Estate Planning & Probate This website is meant as informative and not formal legal advice nor attorney-client relationship Meet Rebecca "Reba" Birmingham — Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Meet Rebecca "Reba" Birmingham Awarded the coveted “SUPER LAWYER” Designation for 2024, I am still happy to serve the Long Beach community for over twenty years. My practice emphasizes civil and probate matters, including Step Parent Adoption, Probate and Estate Planning. I have a passion for helping people clarify and achieve their legal goals in all their matters. For example, asking the right questions helps my clients make an estate plan which carries out their true intentions, or to analyze the pros and cons of whether or not to sue. On the litigation side, most of us realize it is better to have a good life than a good lawsuit, so we seek solutions before filing if possible. Our firm proves you can have a good attorney who will not break the bank.  I also will defend you against frivolous lawsuits if you do not have insurance to cover it. A Message from Reba "Stephanie and I had a third strike case in Lancaster, where the client was facing '110 years to life.' It took two years of negotiation and motions, but the client eventually served only six years, and was able to see his young son again." My Approach You and I sit down, review the facts, and talk it out. After appearing in countless courts and taking cases to jury trial, I can advise you on what to do next. By the time you leave you will have a good strategy to move forward and know about what it will cost. Services Step Parent Adoption Estate Planning Wrongful Death Defense of Frivolous Lawsuits Restraining Orders Probate Education California State University Long Beach (Bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts) - Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society Pacific Coast University, School of Law (Juris Doctorate w/distinction) - Valedictorian, Class President. Admissions California State Bar Affiliations President, Long Beach Bar Association 2020 Lifetime member of California Women Lawyers 2002 president of Women Lawyers of Long Beach Present member of the Board of Governors of the Long Beach Bar Member of Probate & Estates Section of the LB bar Member of the Legacy Society GAFRA and PREPPA panel member, serving the LGBT community Member of Long Beach Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce Chancellor of St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Long Beach Awards 2025: Recognized by Senator Lena Gonzalez in honor of Women’s History Month 2024: “Women Who Have Made a Difference” by Soroptimist International of Long Beach 2023: Distinguished Service Award by the Long Beach Bar Association 2019: Winner “Kathleen Parker Award” (Pacific Coast University School of Law) 2018: “Harvey Milk Equality Plaza honoree”. Celebrated for LGBTQ achievements . Induction ceremony at the Harvey Milk Promenade Park in Long Beach. Presented by: Harvey Milk Promenade Park. 2017: Winner "Best of Long Beach" award 2005/2006:WLLB Legal Service Attorney of the year 2015: Senator Ricardo Lara's "Excellence in Business Award" recognized the team of Long Beach Law. Volunteer Activity Volunteers in Parole, and Long Beach Police Chief's First Annual Advisory Conference Published Case Court of Appeal, Fourth District, Division 3, California IN RE: the DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIP OF Darrin ELLIS And David James Arriaga. Darrin Ellis, Appellant, v. David James Arriaga, Respondent. No. G038437.Decided: May 6, 2008Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund, Jennifer C. Pizer, Tara L. Borelli, Los Angeles; Long Beach Law, Rebecca J. Birmingham , A. Stephanie Loftin, Long Beach, and Sharon L. Taylor, for Appellant. Edmund G. Brown, Jr., Attorney General, Christopher E. Krueger, Assistant Attorney General, Douglas J. Woods and Kathleen A. Lynch, Deputy Attorneys General, for the State of California as Amicus Curiae on behalf of Appellant. No appearance for Respondent.OPINION Introduction We hold: Under the California Domestic Partner Rights and Responsibilities Act of 2003 (Stats.2003, ch. 421) (the Domestic Partner Act), and consistent with the rationale of our Supreme Court in Koebke v. Bernardo Heights Country Club (2005) 36 Cal.4th 824, 31 Cal.Rptr.3d 565, 115 P.3d 1212 (Koebke ), a person's reasonable, good faith belief that his or her domestic partnership was validly registered with the California Secretary of State entitles that person to the rights and responsibilities of a registered domestic partner, even if the registration never took place. The California Legislature's stated purpose in enacting the Domestic Partner Act was to extend to registered domestic partners all the rights, benefits, and obligations of married persons, with the exception of the rights, benefits, and obligations accorded only to married persons by federal law, the California Constitution, or initiative statutes. Under the equitable putative spouse doctrine, a person's reasonable, good faith belief that his or her marriage is valid entitles that person to the benefits of marriage, even if the marriage is not, in fact, valid. The doctrine is not accorded by federal law, the California Constitution, or a voter initiative. It therefore extends to those who intended to register their domestic partnerships under the Domestic Partner Act and had a reasonable, good faith belief that the registration had occurred, despite the failure to properly complete the registration. As a result, a person may plead and attempt to prove that he or she is entitled to the rights and responsibilities of a registered domestic partner under these circumstances. In this case, the trial court dismissed a petition for dissolution of a domestic partnership because the domestic partnership had never been registered with the California Secretary of State. Appellant submitted a declaration in opposition to respondent's motion to dismiss the petition stating he believed his partner had completed the registration process with the state after they signed and had notarized the necessary documents. We conclude the trial court erred by granting the motion to dismiss the petition without permitting appellant an opportunity to plead and prove a reasonable, good faith belief in the existence of a registered domestic partnership; we therefore reverse. We decide this case by applying well-settled and uncontroversial principles of statutory construction, driven by the Legislature's express stated intent in enacting the Domestic Partner Act. We do not reach other, broader issues urged by appellant. Statement of Facts and Procedural History On September 8, 2006, Darrin Ellis filed a petition for dissolution of his domestic partnership with David James Arriaga. Ellis alleged the domestic partnership had been registered on August 14, 2003. Arriaga filed a motion to dismiss the petition, arguing the declaration of domestic partnership, which he and Ellis signed and had notarized on August 14, 2003, had never been filed with the California Secretary of State, and no domestic partnership had therefore been formed. The trial court granted the motion to dismiss, concluding putative status was unavailable to domestic partners who had not registered with the California Secretary of State. Ellis timely appealed. Discussion I.Standard of Review This case involves an interpretation of statutes; our review is de novo. (McKee v. Orange Unified School Dist. (2003) 110 Cal.App.4th 1310, 1316, 2 Cal.Rptr.3d 774.) “In construing a statute, our fundamental task is to ascertain the Legislature's intent so as to effectuate t Long Beach Law Cases — Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Case Results Criminal Defended Domestic Violence Case for Non-Citizen to jury trial - Acquitted! Bellflower Courthouse. Defended a paralegal charged with Felony "Terrorist Threat" to jury trial - Acquitted! Norwalk Courthouse. Defended a Third Strike defendant in Lancaster, and was able to strike a strike and conform the sentence to something reasonable.  Worked with the D.A.'s office in Bellflower to reopen an incorrectly charged case and having the clients status as a  Registered Sex Offender removed.  Civil Defended a Retired School teacher who was victim of forgery . Dismissed! Represented Plaintiff in a Court Trial against a Lawyer/Priest tried to steal the corporation, and received Punitive Damages . Sued the County of Los Angeles on behalf of an inmate who did not receive proper medical attention. Won at jury trial on a Conversion case involving musical equipment. Settled case after appeal. Los Angeles Court. Represented Plaintiff against a man who assaulted her at jury trial. Long Beach Court.   Family When an Orange County baby sitter sued a bisexual father for guardianship of his non-biological son, our attorneys stepped in and successfully argued that he was a good father. CONTESTED GUARDIANSHIP IN ORANGE COUNTY DISMISSED - Ultimately, the babysitter L.H.  voluntarily dismissed her case against Thomas P. for custody of his son, T.. If you recall, Ms. H. was the babysitter of the minor in this case, and sought custody worried about "the effect of the gay lifestyle" on the child. The Petitioner also objected to an adult website run by Mr. P.. There was no evidence that T. was ever exposed to the website, and his father believes the injection of the website into the court documents was a red herring calculated to prejudice the court. - Attorney Reba Birmingham stated that the turning point in the case was the court's ruling Friday rejecting Ms. H. attempt to force DNA testing on the minor and his father. Thomas P. lost his job and home over this protracted court battle, and is looking forward to putting his life back together. T. is just glad "all this stuff" has stopped, and remains a happy healthy child. Selected Cases Fatal C.J. and Marvin were together for nineteen years. Marvin was a former marine, and had just received his Doctorate in Education. One morning, he left for work and seven minutes later . . . Fatal crash occurs on rain-slick La Tuna Canyon Road By Christina Villacorte, Daily News Staff Writer POSTED: 11/21/11, 9:00 PM PST One man was killed and another was injured when their vehicles slammed into each other in Sun Valley early Monday. "It was a dramatic and forceful collision which took one man's life at the scene and caused another to sustain critical injuries," said Los Angeles Fire Department spokesman Brian Humphrey. The crash occurred at 6:47 a.m. in the 8300 block of La Tuna Canyon Road near the Foothill (210) Freeway. A white Toyota Tacoma pickup truck was heading eastbound on La Tuna Canyon when the driver lost control on the wet pavement and slid sideways into the westbound lanes, according to officers with the LAPD's Valley Traffic Division. A red Scion was heading westbound and broadsided the Toyota truck. The collision caused a small fire to break out in one of the vehicles, but was immediately extinguished by firefighters, Humphrey said. The driver of the Toyota truck, Manilo Imperial, 46, of Canyon Country, was trapped inside and was pulled to safety by witnesses, police said. Imperial sustained severe injuries and was transported to Providence Holy Cross Medical Center for treatment. But the man in the Scion, Marvin Horner, 45, of Tujunga, suffered massive internal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene, police said. We know your loved one is not just another news cycle. Former Cranberry pastor ousted from California church Wednesday, September 13, 2000 By Steve Levin, Post-Gazette Staff Writer The saga of former Cranberry pastor Richard Rossi, a tale of hirings, firings, an attempted-murder charge and a subsequent mistrial, has taken further twists in his adopted state of California, where he has been ousted from his latest church and picketed by an anti-gay group. For the past several months, Rossi has been conducting services in his three-bedroom townhouse in Long Beach for a handful of followers. He was fired in January after 2 1/2 years as pastor of Immanuel Baptist Church when a group of church members changed the building's locks and filed a civil suit against him charging, among other things, that Rossi failed to let them know he'd been charged with beating his wife almost to death in 1994 along a rural Pennsylvania road. Although a mistrial was declared in that case, Rossi, then pastor of the First Love Church, pleaded guilty to aggravated assault. Sentenced to four to eight months in prison, he served 96 days plus four years of probation. This March, in an effort to generate support for Rossi, some of his backers organized a protest against his dismissal, utilizing the minions of pastor Fred Phelps of Kansas, who has made a name for himself with virulent anti-gay demonstrations around the country. Much to Rossi's chagrin, however, Phelps' protesters railed against Rossi's lenient attitude toward homosexuals when he was pastor of the church. The best news Rossi has had this year was that the civil suit against him was dropped. It charged him with illegally changing Immanuel Baptist Church's bylaws and converting more than $10,000 of church funds for personal use. "We decided, what's the sense of throwing good money after bad," said Rebecca Birmingham, the Long Beach attorney representing church members who had filed the suit. Neither Rossi nor his spokesman, Jeffrey Griffith of Long Beach, could be reached for comment. One of Rossi's attorneys, James M. Ecker of Pittsburgh, said he was unaware Rossi had been fired from the church. Ecker said he last spoke with Rossi a month ago. Preventable Death - Wrongful Death Care Would Have Saved Inmate, Lawyer Says Jails: Attorney alleges that deputies ignored court orders to treat client. Sheriff's Department is investigating man's death. January 15, 2001|DAN WEIKEL | TIMES STAFF WRITER The Sheriff's Department is investigating the Jan. 1 death of a Los Angeles County jail inmate whose attorney says would have survived if deputies had obeyed four court orders to provide him with medical care. The death of Henry A. Torres Jr. at the Century Regional Detention Center in Lynwood comes amid a federal review of health care in the enormous county jail system, which handles about 180,000 inmates annually. Torres, 32, of Hawaiian Gardens, was facing trial in Superior Court on three heroin-related charges. He lost consciousness in his cell shortly after 2 p.m. on New Year's Day and was pronounced dead at King/Drew Medical Center. The coroner's office later found what appeared to be a piece of hypodermic syringe in Torres' right lung that he apparently had swallowed accidentally before his jailing and that caused the organ to fill with blood and other fluid. Torres had repeatedly complained about something stuck in his throat since he was jailed Nov. 8, case records show. Back to Top Long Beach Law, 782 Pacific Ave, Long Beach, CA, 90813 562 621 6300 CALL Long Beach Law TODAY! Family Law - Civil Law - Criminal Law - Estate Planning & Probat Civil Law — Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ Civil Law Litigation Support If you would like to schedule a telephonic, Zoom or in office appointment to discuss your case, - CALL US TODAY (562) 621 6300 or click HERE to send us a message. Litigation Support (Limited Scope) We can also help you with portions of a lawsuit if you decide to respond in pro per. You can pay hourly for help responding to, for example: Discovery Motions Depositions CONTACT US TODAY Back to Top Long Beach Law, 782 Pacific Ave, Long Beach, CA, 90813 562 621 6300 CALL Long Beach Law TODAY! Family Law - Civil Law - Criminal Law - Estate Planning & Probate This website is meant as informative and not formal legal advice nor attorney-client relationship Uncontested Divorce — Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ Law Firm Assisted Uncontested Divorce in California The Quickest End to a Marriage Flat fee uncontested divorce done online $50 to start your attorney assisted uncontested divorce (Check eligibility, conflict of interest, and if eligible, proceed with uncontested divorce contract, setting up your online account, and begin the step-by-step process at your convenience). *This fee is non-refundable. Flat fee legal billing starting as low as $750 for uncontested divorce plus a fixed fee/cost (filing fees with the court and process server) when using our online service , where we do a confidential review your documents, prepare documents for filing, electronically file with the court, process serve your soon to be ex, while you self represent at the initial filing. Uncontested vs Contested Divorce If you and your spouse are amicable and agree on all the terms of the divorce, including division of property, child custody and spousal support it is called “stipulated” divorce also known as “uncontested” divorce. Choosing the uncontested route, you will avoid the emotional stress of repeated court appearances and having a judge make life long decisions for you. There is less conflict, it is cheaper and less “dramatic”. In a “contested” divorce, you and your spouse cannot agree on one or more key issues, hence, court intervention where the judge will hold a trial, examine evidence and call witnesses. Contested divorce takes longer to finalize, often involves attorneys, and has a higher cost due to mediation, negotiation, and court proceedings that can drag on or out for years. What’s Next? Is your spouse or partner willing to sign the divorce papers? Do you agree and able to work together? Requirements: One spouse must have lived in California at least six months or in the county for at least three months. Uncontested Divorce Services and Flat Fees Affordable Low Cost Divorce Packages. No large upfront retainers. We can look at the paperwork and makes sure you are not forgetting any crucial detail or missing paperwork. It includes preparation of documents, filing of divorce documents, preparation of service documents, and entering of a default (if the spouse does not respond). (Note, there is an additional court filing fee to initiate a divorce in California which is $435 in most counties. The fee may be waived based on income) Amicable Uncontested Divorce Packages Uncontested without Minor Children or Assets $750 uncontested divorce without minor children or assets (without written agreement judgment) flat attorney fee, plus all costs (court filing fees, typically $435 in most CA counties, e-filing fees, typically between $12-20, and may be waived based on income, plus process server). Uncontested with Minor Children or Assets $995 uncontested divorce with minor children or assets (without written agreement judgment) flat attorney fee, plus all costs (court filing fees, typically $435 in most CA counties, e-filing fees, typically between $12-20, and may may be waived based on income, plus process server). Uncontested Divorce + your spouse file a response (with marital settlement agreement) $1595 uncontested divorce where your spouse file a response, and you are both in agreement in regards to minor children or assets (with marital settlement agreement). Reach an agreement on all key issues, complete financial disclosures and submit the Marital Settlement Agreement that lists your agreed upon decisions. Plus all costs (court filing fees, typically $435 in most CA counties, e-filing fees, typically between $12-20, and may be waived based on income, plus process server). Fix Your rejected DIY Divorce Filing $995 fix your rejected DIY divorce filing. Review and fix previous errors we find, prepare required forms to finalize and complete your default uncontested divorce (without written agreement judgment). Plus all costs (court filing fees, typically $435 in most CA counties, e-filing fees, typically between $12-20, and may be waived based on income. Contact us for your uncontested divorce in California Back to Top Long Beach Law, 782 Pacific Ave, Long Beach, CA, 90813 562 621 6300 CALL Long Beach Law TODAY! Family Law - Civil Law - Criminal Law - Estate Planning & Probate This website is meant as informative and not formal legal advice nor attorney-client relationship Investigation - Long Beach Law — Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ Investigation Before Trial Gather all the facts, keep logs with dates, take pictures before things change and bring them with you to your consultation. We have access to private investigators, and will use depositions, subpoenas and written discovery to get to the bottom of your legal problem. Remember there are sometimes six sides to a story, depending upon who is telling it. We will get the real story out for you so those who need to know can make an informed decision. Back to Top Long Beach Law, 782 Pacific Ave, Long Beach, CA, 90813 562 621 6300 CALL Long Beach Law TODAY! Family Law - Civil Law - Criminal Law - Estate Planning & Probate This website is meant as informative and not formal legal advice nor attorney-client relationship Meet Audrey "Stephanie" Loftin — Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Meet Audrey "Stephanie" Loftin Founder of Long Beach Law Statement of Decision regarding the 2016 "People v Moroney"           in Long Beach regarding Lewd Conduct. Read the pdf Statement. I was born in Chattanooga Tennessee and have been an attorney at law since 1990. Since then, I have gained significant Family, Criminal and Civil Law experience as I am admitted to all state courts in California as well as the federal district court of appeal.  We practice in all courthouses in the five counties of Los Angeles, Orange County, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego but have also had cases in Martinez, Ventura County, Indio and El Centro. I recently traveled to Bakersfield for a successful Contempt defense.                  More than 20 years, I have provided my volunteer services to the Long Beach Superior Court Family Law Mediation Program. In addition I founded the Legal Clinics at Rainbow Battered Women's Shelter in San Pedro, empowering women to get restraining orders; dissolutions, and to file Paternity actions so their children could be fed and clothed. I was also Trial Counsel for Beth C. vs. Marcia B., Non-published, upheld in Second District, Division 7. Non-RDP, Non-Marital Partner of a lesbian relationship found to be parent under F.C. 7611(d). In the published case of Ellis v. Arriaga (2008) 162 Cal.App.4th 1000 which established Putative Spouse rights for Registered Domestic Partners, 11 days before the In Re Marriage Cases, served as Co-Counsel. If you would like to inquire about presentations regarding legal rights pertaining to LGBT individuals, couples and families, please contact our office (562) 621 6300. In 2002, Supervisor Don Knabe appointed me a to the County of Los Angeles Commission on Alcoholism, where I served for seven years; two years as Chair. I sat Judge Pro Tem for Los Angeles Superior Court in Traffic, Unlawful Detainer, Small Claims, Domestic Violence Restraining Orders and Family Law Divisions.  A Message from Stephanie PROPOSITION 47: Certain persons currently serving felony sentences may Petition the sentencing court to have their sentences reduced to misdemeanors. In addition, certain offenders who have already completed a sentence for a felony that qualifies under the new law may apply to the sentencing court to have their felony conviction designated a misdemeanor. My Approach My approach is to be your counselor at law. I will provide competent, caring, legal counseling to get you through some of your most difficult and trying times. The Children's Voice I do my Family Law practice for the children. They have no voice. They will be together with their parents forever...until the parents die or all of the children are dead, because the child(ren) of the parties will want their parents to attend ALL of their major life events: marriages; graduations; births of babies; holidays; you name it. If it is important to your child, you should be there for them! I try to get the parties into a working relationship for the best interest of their child(ren). If there is not TOO much conflict, then the kids benefit from the parents ability to co-parent. Services Investigation Civil Law Criminal Law Family Law Mediation Services Education University of Texas at El Paso (Major in Finance & Accounting - Minor in Real Estate) Western State University School of Law (Attended Downing College at Cambridge University, England for a portion of the legal education) Admissions All of the California State Courts and the Federal District Court of Appeal Affiliations Founder of Long Beach Law in 1990 Founding member of the Woman’s Law Association;  Honors Moot Court; President of the International Law Society; and, Delta Theta Phi member Founded the Legal Clinics at Rainbow Battered Women's Shelter in San Pedro Atlantic Alano Club - Legal Counsel since 1990, and current Chair California Women Lawyers - Lifetime member First Long Beach Police Department “Citizen’s Police Academy” Graduate, 1996 Long Beach Bar Association - Member, Past President, Family Law Section Long Beach Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce - Member Long Beach Police Chief’s Gay and Lesbian Advisory Group - Member from 1991-2005, past Chair National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers - Lifetime member Board of Directors, One in Long Beach , past Chair and CFO Women Lawyer’s of Long Beach - Board of Directors and past President (16th) Cal State Long Beach - Taught “Women and the Law” for a semester 2018: Completion of required 30 hour Basic Mediation Training Program, Pacific Coast University, School of Law. Awards 2024: "James Ackerman Crystal Arts and Humanitarian Award” by International City Theatre 2024: “Women Who Have Made a Difference” by Soroptimist International 2016: “Donald Snow Community Advocate Award” for Long Beach Law’s outstanding work in advocating for the LGBTQ community. 2016: “Harvey Milk Equality Plaza honoree”. Celebrated for LGBTQ achievements . Induction ceremony at the Harvey Milk Promenade Park in Long Beach. Presented by: Harvey Milk Promenade Park, Mayor Robert Garcia and Councilwoman Lena Gonzalez of Long Beach. 2015: Senator Ricardo Lara's "Excellence in Business Award" recognized the team of Long Beach Law for their distinguished achievements and leadership, devotion, and extensive service to the community. 2015: “Wells Fargo Corporate Award” by Pride Real Estate Professionals Association for the commitment to and promotion of the LGBT Community. 2015: Certificate of Appreciation by California State University, Long Beach for the contribution to the education of students in the Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Department WGSS 496 “Feminist Community Praxis, Spring 2015” 2014: Certificate of Appreciation by Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles for volunteering expertise, knowledge, and time as a family law settlement officer. Long Beach Lambda Democratic Club Human Rights Award for “Woman of the Year,” 1998, & 2008 and President’s Special Recognition Award, 2000. 2008 “Women Who Make a Difference” by Soroptomist International 2008 Long Beach Women Lawyer's of Long Beach - received Attorney of the Year Award 2004: Wall of Tolerance by National Campaign for Tolerance 2003 “Philantropist Award” and “Cenber Board Award” for the commitment to the community by The Gay and Lesbian Center of Greater Long Beach. Recognized by Cal State Long Beach , “Legal Aid Center” in 1994-1995. California State Bar , District Seven, President’s Service Award in 1997 Life Membership “The National Council of Negro Women, Inc” in support of the perpetuation of the highest ideals of womanhood, service and achievement. Published Case Ellis v. Arriaga (2008) 162 Cal.App.4th 1000 which established Putative Spouse rights for Registered Domestic Partners, 11 days before the In Re Marriage Cases! Court of Appeal, Fourth District, Division 3, California IN RE: the DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIP OF Darrin ELLIS And David James Arriaga. Darrin Ellis, Appellant, v. David James Arriaga, Respondent. No. G038437.Decided: May 6, 2008Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund, Jennifer C. Pizer, Tara L. Borelli, Los Angeles; Long Beach Law, Rebecca J. Birmingham, A. Stephanie Loftin , Long Beach, and Sharon L. Taylor, for Appellant. FAQ - Long Beach Law — Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ Frequently Asked Questions CRIMINAL LAW: I DON'T EVEN KNOW IF MY OLD CONVICTIONS ARE ON MY RECORD, CAN YOU HELP? Yes, we will instruct you how to get your record, and advise you of your options for expungement. I PLEAD GUILTY TO SOMETHING, AND NOW THEY WANT TO DEPORT ME, WHAT CAN I DO? In many cases we have been able to withdraw your guilty plea, we will need to see the transcript from the hearing, and can advise you. FAMILY LAW: How soon can I be divorced? Six months and one day from the day the person is served, or when the judgment is filed, whichever is later. How much does it cost? Each case is different, depending on many factors, a consultation will help you determine that. Any consultation fee will be credited toward your initial deposit if you retain our services. Do you do mediation? We can represent you at mediation, or act as mediator for Family Law. I am afraid of my ex - what are my options? Your first line of defense is to call 911. If there is time to prepare, Restraining Orders are a valuable tool to assist you in protecting yourself and your family. Sometimes criminal charges must be brought, and in extreme cases you may qualify for a confidential address.  What will happen with our children? In California, custody should be granted by an order of preference, according to "the best interests of the child." Family Code Section 3040(a). The best case is to both parents jointly, followed by placement with the parent who is more likely to allow the child frequent and continuing contact with the noncustodial parent. If to neither parent, then to the person or persons in whose home the child has been living, as long as it is wholesome and stable. Do children need an attorney? In certain civil actions, a minor will require a Guardian ad Litem. We can help with that. Sometimes children are appointed "Minor's Counsel" to make sure their voice is heard when the parents can't stop fighting. If Department of Children and Family Services becomes involved, you may loose custody for a period of time while the matter is investigated. What is a 730 evaluation? A "730" takes its name from Evidence Code 730 which states: "When it appears to the court, at any time before or during the trial of an action, that expert evidence is or may be required by the court or by any party tot he action, the court on its own motion or on motion of any party may appoint one or more experts to investigate, to render a report as may be ordered by the court, or to testify as an expert at the trial of the action relative tot he fact or matter as to which the expert evidence is or may be required." You and your spouse usually split the cost, and the expert, often a psychologist, comes in to interview everyone in the child's life and render an opinion with the court about who may be the better parent.  ESTATE PLANNING & PROBATE: What is the difference between a will and trust? Both a will and a trust will pass your earthly estate. Only a trust avoids probate. How much is a will or a trust? A Will (with Durable Powers of Attorney) is typically $450.00 per person. A Trust for one settlor is $1,500.00, for most couples we charge $2,000.00 unless there are complexities. Will Joint Tenancy protect me from Probate? It will if only one of the two on title (with rights of survivorship) dies. If both go, then the heirs will need to probate the property--even if you have made a will. There is legislation making its way through the California legislature, which, if passed, will give our clients a new option, that of transfer on death. This way some small estates may be able to avoid probate without creating a trust. What are Probate fees? They are fees you pay to the executor and to the attorney, in addition to court fees. The are: 4% of the first $100,000 of decedent's estate (based on market, not equity of any real estate) 3% of the next $100,000 2% of the next $800,000 1% of the next $9,000,000 5% of the next $15,000,000 A reasonable fee thereafter CONTACT US TODAY Back to Top Long Beach Law, 782 Pacific Ave, Long Beach, CA, 90813 562 621 6300 CALL Long Beach Law TODAY! Family Law - Civil Law - Criminal Law - Estate Planning & Probate This website is meant as informative and not formal legal advice nor attorney-client relationship Organizations — Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact Long Beach Law (562) 621 6300 Main Areas of Practice Criminal Law Family Law Online Uncontested Divorce Civil Law Estate Planning & Probate Investigation FAQ About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations Contact About Us LBL Overview Meet "Stephanie" Meet "Reba" Cases Organizations We're proud to support our community organizations!     OTHER Resources: Legal Aid Foundation in Long Beach www.LAFLA.org (562) 435 3501 Legal Aid Foundation in Los Angeles www.LAFLA.org (800) 399 4529 Rainbow Services in San Pedro www.RainbowServicesDV.org (310) 438 5450 Harriett Buhai Center for Family Law in Los Angeles www.HBCFL.org (213) 388 7505 National Center for Lesbian Rights in San Francisco www.NCLRights.org (415) 392 2657 LAMBDA Legal Defense & Education Fund in Los Angeles www.LambdaLegal.org (213) 382 7600 ACLU in Los Angeles www.ACLUSoCal.org (213) 977 9500 The LGBTQ Center in Long Beach www.CenterLB.org (562) 434 4455 Back to Top Long Beach Law, 782 Pacific Ave, Long Beach, CA, 90813 562 621 6300 CALL Long Beach Law TODAY! Family Law - Civil Law - Criminal Law - Estate Planning & Probate This website is meant as informative and not formal legal advice nor attorney-client relationship