A Family & Divorce Law Firm Servicing Ladera Ranch
Defending Your Family, Property, and the Future You’ve Worked Hard to Build
We are a family and divorce law firm servicing Ladera Ranch and providing compassionate, results-driven legal representation for families navigating divorce and custody disputes throughout Ladera Ranch.
At Harris & McKeown Law Firm, we represent families in Ladera Ranch and neighboring communities like Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, and Laguna Niguel. We have been practicing law in Orange County courts for more than 15 years. We handle divorce, custody, and support cases with the focused, local representation our clients rely on.
Meet our attorneys or explore our
services to learn more.
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 offers compassionate guidance to help you stay protected if you're facing threats or intimidation at home.
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 as much as possible.
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.
Why Choose Us?
Free Initial Consultations
We offer a no-cost initial consultation so you can understand your legal options without pressure or commitment.
You Speak Directly With Your Attorney
You don’t get passed off to assistants or paralegals. You’ll have direct communication with our attorneys.
We Prioritize Responsiveness
Your time and your case should never be left hanging. We return calls and emails promptly, and when you need to speak with your attorney, you will. We make it a priority to keep you informed and involved at every stage.
We Handle Both Contested and Uncontested Cases
We represent contested divorces involving custody and asset disputes, and also draft complete settlement agreements and court forms for amicable, agreement-based divorces.
Backed by 15+ Years of Family Law Experience
Our attorneys have handled high-conflict custody battles, complex property division, and domestic violence cases, earning a reputation for protecting our clients’ rights and guiding families toward resolution in Orange County courts.
Step-by-Step Guide To Working With Our Legal Team
STEP 1
Initial Consultation
We start with a one time free, private consultation at our office or by phone. You’ll meet directly with an attorney to review your situation and learn what steps are required under California law. We’ll explain your rights, responsibilities, and what to expect with custody, support, and property division.
STEP 2
Filing the Divorce Petition
If you decide to move forward, we prepare and file your divorce petition with the Orange County Superior Court, specifically, the
Lamoreaux Justice Center in Orange, which handles all family law cases for Ladera Ranch residents. Your spouse is then formally served with the paperwork.
STEP 3
Response and Financial Disclosures
Once served, your spouse has 30 days to respond. Both parties are required to exchange financial documents called “preliminary disclosures” so that income, assets, debts, and expenses are fully transparent before moving forward with any agreement or court hearing.
STEP 4
Negotiation and Settlement Discussions
We work to resolve issues like custody schedules, child and spousal support, and division of property. Many Ladera Ranch couples prefer to avoid court, and we can negotiate directly or through mediation to reach a fair settlement.
STEP 5
Court Hearings (If Needed)
If any issues remain unresolved, we prepare thoroughly for court and represent you at hearings held at the Lamoreaux Justice Center. Judges will decide unresolved matters like custody or asset division.
STEP 6
Final Judgement and Case Closure
Once everything is agreed to or ruled on by the court, we prepare and file the Judgement of Dissolution of Marriage, which officially ends the marriage. You’ll receive a final court order confirming all terms.
STEP 1
Initial Consultation
We start with a one time free, private consultation at our office or by phone. You’ll meet directly with an attorney to review your situation and learn what steps are required under California law. We’ll explain your rights, responsibilities, and what to expect with custody, support, and property division.
STEP 2
Filing the Divorce Petition
If you decide to move forward, we prepare and file your divorce petition with the Orange County Superior Court, specifically, the
Lamoreaux Justice Center in Orange, which handles all family law cases for Ladera Ranch residents. Your spouse is then formally served with the paperwork.
STEP 3
Response and Financial Disclosures
Once served, your spouse has 30 days to respond. Both parties are required to exchange financial documents called “preliminary disclosures” so that income, assets, debts, and expenses are fully transparent before moving forward with any agreement or court hearing.
STEP 4
Negotiation and Settlement Discussions
We work to resolve issues like custody schedules, child and spousal support, and division of property. Many Ladera Ranch couples prefer to avoid court, and we can negotiate directly or through mediation to reach a fair settlement.
STEP 5
Court Hearings (If Needed)
If any issues remain unresolved, we prepare thoroughly for court and represent you at hearings held at the Lamoreaux Justice Center. Judges will decide unresolved matters like custody or asset division.
STEP 6
Final Judgement and Case Closure
Once everything is agreed to or ruled on by the court, we prepare and file the Judgement of Dissolution of Marriage, which officially ends the marriage. You’ll receive a final court order confirming all terms.
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
How much does a divorce cost in Ladera Ranch without a family lawyer?
Filing for divorce on your own typically costs between $435–$500, which includes the court filing fee to start the case at the Orange County Superior Court (Lamoreaux Justice Center). Other costs may include process server fees (around $100), notary fees, and optional mediation. However, without legal guidance, mistakes in paperwork or delays in court responses can end up costing more time and money in the long run.
How much is a wife entitled to in a divorce in Ladera Ranch?
California is a community property state, which means each spouse is generally entitled to half of the marital property and debts acquired during the marriage. This applies equally to both spouses, regardless of gender. Division includes shared income, real estate, retirement accounts, and other assets. The final amount depends on the specifics of the marriage and what was accumulated together.
How many years do you have to be married to get alimony in Ladera Ranch?
For marriages under 10 years, alimony (spousal support) typically lasts about half the length of the marriage. For marriages over 10 years, the court may not set an end date right away. Alimony is not automatic; it must be requested and based on income, financial needs, and ability to pay.
Is it always 50/50 in divorce in Ladera Ranch?
Not always, but community property rules generally aim for a 50/50 division of marital assets. However, exceptions apply. For example, separate property (like inheritances or assets owned before marriage) may not be divided. Custody arrangements are also based on the child’s best interests, not a strict 50/50 schedule. The court considers many factors, including parenting roles and living arrangements.
How long does a divorce take in Ladera Ranch?
The minimum time for a divorce in California is six months from the date the other spouse is served. Simple, uncontested divorces can finish close to this timeline if all paperwork is filed properly and both parties agree. Contested cases or those involving child custody or property disputes may take 9–18 months or more, depending on court availability and complexity.
What disqualifies you from alimony in Ladera Ranch?
You may be denied alimony if you can support yourself, have ample separate income, or if the other spouse lacks the ability to pay. Additionally, if one spouse has been abusive or dishonest financially, the court may reduce or deny support. Every situation is reviewed individually.
What’s the quickest way to get a divorce?
The fastest route is an uncontested divorce where both spouses agree on everything, property division, custody, support, and complete all forms correctly. If you qualify, a summary dissolution may also be an option, but only for couples married under 5 years with no kids and limited assets/debts. Either way, the six-month minimum waiting period still applies.
Can I file my own divorce papers in Ladera Ranch?
Yes, you can file your own divorce through the Orange County Superior Court – Lamoreaux Justice Center. You’ll need to complete multiple forms (starting with Form FL-100), pay the filing fee, and have your spouse legally served. You’ll also need to prepare financial disclosures. The court’s website offers resources, but many people find the process overwhelming and choose to work with an attorney for accuracy and peace of mind.
What is the average cost of hiring you as a divorce/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.
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!
