Resources
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
San Francisco Bay Area Superior Courts
This is a quick list of links to Bay Area County Superior courts. San Francisco County Superior Court Alameda County Superior Court Alameda County Case Lookup Contra Costa County Superior Court Contra Costa Open Access Case Lookup Sacramento County Superior...
Bay Area Family Crisis Centers and Help Centers
Bay Area Family Crisis Centers and Help Centers
Bay Area County and California State Website Links – Divorce
Bay Area Divorce Resources
Divorce Alternative – Legal Separation
A legal separation won't end a marriage or domestic partnership. Unlike divorce or dissolution, in cases of a legal separation, the marriage or domestic partnership remains unbroken, prohibiting the parties from remarriage or entering a new domestic partnership. Legal...
Divorce Alternative – Annulment
With an annulment, the court determines that a marriage or domestic partnership is not legally valid.
You Can Renew Your Domestic Violence Restraining Order Easily
If your Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DVRO) is set to expire, you may be wondering what to do next. Do you want to renew your DVRO? Are you within the proper timeline to renew your DVRO? How much work is required to renew your DVRO?
Adoptions by Same-Sex Married Persons
If you need help adopting, at Mendes Law, we feel adoption is a joyous occasion. We would love to share in your joy. Please allow us to help you adopt.
Walnut Creek Office
1990 N. California Blvd.
Suite 1020
Walnut Creek, CA 94596