Resources
Domestic Violence Resources in Contra Costa County: Where to Find Help
Domestic violence can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, background, or income. For individuals and families experiencing abuse, knowing where to find support and understanding available legal protections can make an important difference. If you are looking for...
Holiday Child Custody Schedule: 7 Tips for Planning Ahead
The holidays are often a time families look forward to all year. But for separated or divorced parents, they can also bring additional scheduling decisions, travel considerations, and disagreements over parenting time. A well-planned holiday child custody schedule can...
Best of the East Bay Family Law Firm 2026: Mendes Law Recognized for Third Consecutive Year
Best of the East Bay Family Law Firm recognition is an honor Mendes Law, PC is proud to receive for the third consecutive year. In 2026, Diablo magazine readers once again recognized Mendes Law as Best Family Law Firm, continuing an achievement that now spans 2024,...
Child Support in Contra Costa County: 7 Important Facts California Parents Should Know
Understanding child support in Contra Costa County is an important part of planning for your family’s financial future if you are going through a divorce, separation, or child custody matter. Parents often have questions about how support is calculated, what income...
Child Custody School Decisions: What California Parents Should Know Before the New School Year
Child custody school decisions become especially important as the new school year approaches. While parents are busy shopping for school supplies, preparing schedules, and helping their children transition back into the classroom, divorced or separated parents often...
What Is Domestic Violence in California?
Domestic violence is often associated with physical abuse, but California law recognizes that abuse can take many different forms. Understanding what is domestic violence in California is an important first step if you are concerned about your safety, involved in a...
Summer Child Custody Planning Tips for Bay Area Families
Summer brings vacations, camps, holidays, and changing routines, making it one of the most common times for custody disputes. For parents sharing custody in California, planning ahead can help avoid unnecessary stress and create a smoother transition for everyone...
How to Get a Restraining Order in California
If you are experiencing harassment, threats, abuse, or violence, understanding how to get a restraining order in California can help you take important legal steps to protect yourself and your family. Restraining orders are court-issued orders designed to help protect...
Choosing the Right Child Custody Schedule in California
Creating the right child custody schedule in California can be one of the most important, and emotional, parts of a family law case. Whether parents are going through a divorce, legal separation, or custody dispute, having a parenting schedule that supports the...
How Much Does Divorce Cost in California?
If you’re considering divorce, one of the first questions that comes up is how much does divorce cost in California. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, understanding the typical range and what drives those costs can help you plan ahead and avoid unnecessary...
How to Get a Divorce in California: Timeline, Steps & What to Expect
Understanding How to Get a Divorce in California If you are considering divorce, you are likely wondering where to begin and how long the process will take. Understanding how to get a divorce in California can help you feel more prepared and reduce unnecessary stress...
Top Lawyers in Walnut Creek, CA: Lisa Mendes and Laura Alvarez Named 2026 Super Lawyers
Mendes Law, PC is proud to announce that both Lisa Mendes and Laura Alvarez have been recognized as 2026 Super Lawyers. This distinction places them among the top attorneys in California and reinforces their reputation as two of the top lawyers in Walnut Creek, CA for...
Summer Child Custody and Co Parenting in Contra Costa County: How to Avoid Conflict Before It Starts
Summer brings longer days, family vacations, camps, and a welcome break from school routines. For divorced or separated parents in Contra Costa County, however, summer can also bring uncertainty and tension. Changes to parenting time, travel plans, and childcare...
Divorce and Taxes: What You Need to Know During Tax Season
Divorce and taxes often collide at one of the most stressful times in a person’s life, and misunderstandings during tax season can lead to serious financial and legal consequences. If you are separated, in the process of divorcing, or considering divorce,...
2025 Year in Review: Supporting Bay Area Families Through Change With Trusted Legal Support
As 2025 comes to a close, Mendes Law, PC reflects on a year defined by resilience, transition, and meaningful progress for the individuals and families we serve throughout Contra Costa and the San Francisco Bay Area. Every day, our attorneys work closely with clients...
Planning Ahead: Legal Resolutions to Consider for 2026
As 2026 approaches, many people take time to reflect on their personal goals, financial health, and relationships. While resolutions often focus on fitness, budgeting, or career growth, the start of a new year is also an ideal time to review your legal priorities....
Preparing for Divorce: A Year-End Checklist
As the year comes to a close, many people reflect on where they are in life relationships, goals, finances, and personal well-being. For some, that reflection brings an important realization: it may be time to start preparing for divorce. While no one enters a...
Understanding Domestic Violence Under California Law: What Counts as Abuse?
Every October, communities across the country recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time dedicated to supporting survivors, educating the public, and advocating for safer homes and relationships. At Mendes Law, PC, a trusted San Francisco Bay Area family law...
Holiday Custody Schedule: Making a Parenting Plan That Works for Everyone
The holidays may feel far away, but when custody is involved, it’s never too early to start planning. Court schedules, attorney consultations, and mediation sessions all take time and waiting until the last minute can leave families scrambling without a clear plan. If...
How to Choose the Right Family Law Attorney in California
Choosing the right family law attorney is one of the most important decisions you can make when facing divorce, custody disputes, or other family-related legal matters. The attorney you select will not only represent your interests in court but also guide you through...
Back to School Planning for Co-Parents: Legal Tips for the School Year
As summer winds down, many parents feel the familiar pressure of preparing for the new school year. For co-parents, this season brings an added layer of complexity. Coordinating school schedules, extracurriculars, and expenses while navigating a custody arrangement...
Mendes Law Named Best of the East Bay 2025 – Family Law Category
We’re proud to announce that Mendes Law has once again been named Best of the East Bay in the Family Law category.
Mediation Services Resources
Local Bay Area Resources for Mediation
Domestic Violence Court Resources by County
Bay Area Links for domestic violence
Walnut Creek Office
2033 N. Main Street
Suite 360
Walnut Creek, CA 94596