A Family & Divorce Law Firm Servicing CORONA
Defending Your Family, Property, and the Future You’ve Worked Hard to Build
We are a family and divorce law firm servicing Corona and providing compassionate, results-driven legal representation for families navigating divorce and custody disputes throughout Corona.
We're proud to be a trusted part of the Corona community, serving families throughout Riverside County, including Norco, Eastvale, and Temescal Valley. Our local experience handling divorce and family law cases has guided clients through complex custody, support, and divorce matters in nearby courts like the Riverside Family Law Courthouse. Learn more about our
family law firm and how we can help.
Our Family Law And Divorce Law Services
Divorce Law
We help individuals end their marriages in a way that protects their legal rights and prepares them for the next chapter. Our legal team handles all the legal steps, including filing forms to dividing property and negotiating support.
Child Custody
We work with parents to create custody arrangements that prioritize the child’s health, safety, and emotional development, with the knowledge that the court looks at what’s best for the child, including safety, stability, and emotional growth.
Domestic Violence Actions
We provide immediate legal assistance to those experiencing domestic abuse. Our legal team assists in obtaining restraining orders and provides compassionate guidance to ensure your safety and peace of mind.
Pre-Marital Agreements
We assist individuals and couples with drafting or reviewing prenuptial agreements that clarify property ownership, financial expectations, and future obligations. We help couples establish clear terms to prevent future disputes.
Family Law Appeals
We assist clients in appealing family court decisions when legal mistakes may have impacted the outcome. Our attorneys carefully review the trial record, identify appealable issues, and handle all stages of the appeals process.
Modification of Child & Spousal Support
We assist clients request changes to child or spousal support orders when circumstances have significantly changed. Whether due to income changes or life events, we help adjust support agreements to ensure fairness and compliance with legal standards.
For a comprehensive overview of our offerings, please explore our
Services page.
Why Choose Us?
Free, No-Pressure Consultations
We offer a free initial consultation to explain your legal options and recommend a plan based on your situation. No fees, no commitments, no pressure.
Work with a Male or Female Attorney of Your Choice
You can choose to work directly with either a male or female attorney, based on who you feel most comfortable with discussing personal matters like custody, support, and divorce.
We Resolve Your Case Efficiently with Personalized Strategies
We move cases forward quickly by filing paperwork on time, identifying opportunities for early settlement, and avoiding unnecessary court delays. We start by preparing your financial disclosures, proposing fair terms, and using negotiation or mediation before escalating to trial.
14+ Years of Experience Serving Corona Families
Founding partner Kaleen Harris brings over a decade of dedicated family law experience and was twice awarded the Scott McCune Memorial Scholarship for her legal writing, while partner Andrew McKeown is one of the youngest Certified Family Law Specialists in California, a distinction held by few attorneys statewide.
Well-Versed in Riverside County Courts
We regularly handle cases at the Riverside Family Law Courthouse and know how each judge approaches custody, support, and property disputes. In one case, our knowledge of a judge’s stance on 50/50 custody helped us secure an agreement before the hearing, saving the client time, stress, and over $10,000 in litigation costs.
Step-by-Step Guide To Working With Our Legal Team
STEP 1
Initial Consultation
You’ll meet with one of our experienced family law attorneys to discuss your situation, whether it involves children, property, or financial concerns. We'll ask about your goals (like custody, support, or keeping the house), and answer your questions and doubts clearly.
STEP 2
Filing the Petition
We prepare and file a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the Orange County Family Court. This officially starts the legal process. The court assigns your case a number and you receive a stamped copy of the forms.
- If you’re the one filing, you're the “Petitioner”; your spouse is the “Respondent.”
- The petition includes basic info like marriage date, grounds for divorce (California is a no-fault state), and your initial requests (custody, support, property division).
- We also file Summons, which includes automatic financial restraining orders.
Your documents are filed electronically with the court and served to your spouse, typically by a process server familiar with the Corona area.
STEP 3
Disclosure & Discovery
California law requires both parties to exchange full and accurate information about finances, assets, debts, and income. This is called Preliminary Disclosure.
The tasks include:
- Completing the Schedule of Assets and Debts
- Filing an Income and Expense Declaration
- Providing copies of tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements, mortgage info, etc.
STEP 1
Initial Consultation
You’ll meet with one of our experienced family law attorneys to discuss your situation, whether it involves children, property, or financial concerns. We'll ask about your goals (like custody, support, or keeping the house), and answer your questions and doubts clearly.
STEP 2
Filing the Petition
We prepare and file a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the Orange County Family Court. This officially starts the legal process. The court assigns your case a number and you receive a stamped copy of the forms.
- If you’re the one filing, you're the “Petitioner”; your spouse is the “Respondent.”
- The petition includes basic info like marriage date, grounds for divorce (California is a no-fault state), and your initial requests (custody, support, property division).
- We also file Summons, which includes automatic financial restraining orders.
Your documents are filed electronically with the court and served to your spouse, typically by a process server familiar with the Corona area.
STEP 3
Disclosure & Discovery
California law requires both parties to exchange full and accurate information about finances, assets, debts, and income. This is called Preliminary Disclosure.
The tasks include:
- Completing the Schedule of Assets and Debts
- Filing an Income and Expense Declaration
- Providing copies of tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements, mortgage info, etc.
STEP 4
Negotiation or Mediation
We try to resolve your case outside of court. This may include direct negotiation with your spouse's attorney or attending mediation, where a neutral third party helps both sides reach a settlement. Here's what you can settle:
- Child custody schedules
- Child and spousal support amounts
- Division of property, assets, and debts
- Who stays in the family home
STEP 5
Hearings or Trial (if needed)
If you and your spouse can’t reach full agreement, the case goes to a court hearing or trial. A judge will make final decisions on the unresolved issues.
We handle:
- Filing motions and responses
- Preparing exhibits and testimony
- Representing you in court at the Lamoreaux Justice Center, which hears all family law matters for South Orange County
Common hearings may involve:
- Temporary custody or support orders
- Restraining orders (if applicable)
- Property valuation disputes
- Final trial on remaining contested issues
STEP 6
Judgement & Moving Forward
Once everything is resolved, either by agreement or court order, a final Judgement of Dissolution is prepared and filed with the court. This judgement officially ends your marriage and puts all orders into effect.
Even after divorce, you can return to court for modifications (e.g., if custody needs change). Our divorce law firm remains your go-to resource for any post-judgment support or enforcement needs.
STEP 4
Negotiation or Mediation
We try to resolve your case outside of court. This may include direct negotiation with your spouse's attorney or attending mediation, where a neutral third party helps both sides reach a settlement. Here's what you can settle:
- Child custody schedules
- Child and spousal support amounts
- Division of property, assets, and debts
- Who stays in the family home
STEP 5
Hearings or Trial (if needed)
If you and your spouse can’t reach full agreement, the case goes to a court hearing or trial. A judge will make final decisions on the unresolved issues.
We handle:
- Filing motions and responses
- Preparing exhibits and testimony
- Representing you in court at the Lamoreaux Justice Center, which hears all family law matters for South Orange County
Common hearings may involve:
- Temporary custody or support orders
- Restraining orders (if applicable)
- Property valuation disputes
- Final trial on remaining contested issues
STEP 6
Judgement & Moving Forward
Once everything is resolved, either by agreement or court order, a final Judgement of Dissolution is prepared and filed with the court. This judgment officially ends your marriage and puts all orders into effect.
Even after divorce, you can return to court for modifications (e.g., if custody needs change). Our divorce law firm remains your go-to resource for any post-judgment support or enforcement needs.
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
“Andrew is a true professional. He answered all of my questions and was super friendly. With the situation I am in currently, I definitely feel like I am great hands. I will also be referring my sister who is going threw a complicated divorce.”
— Phillip V., Mission Viejo, CA
“Andrew did a great job representing me in my divorce. He was very knowledgeable and gave me great advice throughout the process. Andrew was focused on getting the best result for me without spending an excessive amount of time or money. He was always professional and kind. I highly recommend Andrew.”
— Zeke B., Santa Ana, CA
“As a fellow attorney in the community, I am always cautious in giving my stamp of approval on another attorney. However, I cannot say enough good things about Andrew McKeown. I have had the pleasure of knowing Mr. McKeown for years. I have seen his work product and his ability to argue for his clients. He is a top-notch attorney and his firm is reasonably priced. If you are looking for the best family law attorney, this is your firm.”
— Melissa J. | Divorce & Custody Client
FAQS
FAQS
What type of lawyer is best for divorce?
A family law attorney who focuses specifically on divorce and custody cases is your best option. Look for someone who has experience with California family law, is familiar with the Riverside County court system, and ideally is a Certified Family Law Specialist (CFLS), like Andrew McKeown, which means they’ve been certified by the State Bar for their expertise in family law.
What are the 3 C’s of divorce?
The “3 C’s” often refer to:
- Communication – being clear and respectful in how you and your attorney or spouse communicate.
- Compromise – being willing to negotiate and settle, especially in custody or property division.
- Cooperation – working toward resolving the case efficiently rather than escalating conflict.
These are not legal terms, but helpful principles that can reduce stress and cost during the process.
Do you offer free consultations for Corona residents?
Yes, we offer a one-time free consultation for new clients in Corona and surrounding areas. This session gives you the chance to get a general overview of your legal options, without any pressure or obligation.
How much does a divorce cost in Corona without a family lawyer?
If you file on your own (also called “pro per” or self-representation), you can expect to pay:
- Court filing fee: $435–$450
- Service of process: Around $75
- Notary or mailing fees: $20–$100 depending on your method
- Optional mediation: $100–$300 per hour if used
- Other forms or copies: Small administrative costs
How long does a divorce take in Corona?
By law, the fastest a divorce can be finalized in California is 6 months from the date the non-filing spouse (the “Respondent”) is served.
But the full timeline depends on the case:
- Uncontested divorce (both spouses agree): 6–8 months
- Contested divorce (disputes on custody or finances): 9–24 months or longer
- Default divorce (if one spouse doesn’t respond): about 6–9 months
The process includes filing, serving papers, exchanging financial information, negotiation or mediation, and final court approval. The more issues you can agree on early, the faster it will move.
What is the average cost of hiring you as a divorce or family lawyer?
Legal costs vary depending on the complexity of your case. For uncontested matters, our firm may offer flat-fee document preparation, typically starting around $2,000–$3,500. For contested divorces involving court appearances or negotiations, fees are billed hourly. Most clients can expect total costs between $5,000–$15,000, depending on the level of conflict, number of issues involved, and length of the case. We always discuss costs clearly during your consultation.
Is everything split 50/50 in a divorce in Corona, CA?
California is a community property state, which means anything earned or acquired during the marriage is typically split 50/50. That includes income, savings, real estate, and debts.
Separate property, such as gifts, inheritances, or things owned before marriage usually stays with the original owner.
However, this only applies if the case goes to court. Couples who settle can divide things however they both agree.
Can I get divorced in Corona if my spouse doesn’t want to?
Yes. California is a no-fault divorce state, meaning one person can file based on “irreconcilable differences” and the court will grant the divorce even if the other person doesn’t agree. The other spouse can delay the process slightly by not responding, but they can’t stop it.
Do I need to go to court for a divorce in Corona?
Not always. If your divorce is uncontested, you may never need to go to court. You can submit all paperwork by mail or electronically and finalize the divorce with a judge’s approval. But if there are disagreements over custody, support, or assets, court hearings or mediation will likely be required at the Riverside County Family Law Courthouse, which handles Corona-area cases.
What happens if my spouse doesn’t respond to the divorce papers?
If your spouse doesn’t respond within 30 days after being properly served, you can request a default divorce. This means the court may move forward without their input, and you could receive many or all of the terms you requested, as long as they’re fair and comply with the law.
You'll still need to file financial disclosures and possibly attend a short hearing.
Experience, Trust, Results
Get Your FREE Consultation
We understand that choosing the right family law attorney can be a difficult task. We provide a free assessment to outline a legal strategy for your situation and allow you to see if our firm is a good fit for you.
Experience, Trust, Results
Get Your FREE Consultation
We understand that choosing the right family law attorney can be a difficult task. We provide a free assessment to outline a legal strategy for your situation and allow you to see if our firm is a good fit for you. Click on the "Contact Us" page to schedule your free consultation today!
