A Family & Divorce Law Firm Servicing Rancho Mission Viejo
Defending Your Family, Property, and the Future You’ve Worked Hard to Build
We are a family and divorce law firm servicing Rancho Mission Viejo and providing compassionate, results-driven legal representation for families navigating divorce and custody disputes throughout Rancho Mission Viejo.
Our
family and divorce lawyers help clients navigate the legal complexity of divorce, separation, custody disputes, support issues, and post-judgement modifications. We serve families across Rancho Mission Viejo, Ladera Ranch, Las Flores, Coto de Caza, and greater South Orange County with focused, experienced legal guidance.
Our Family Law And Divorce Law Services
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.
For a comprehensive overview of our offerings, please explore our Services page.
Child Custody
We work with parents to create custody arrangements that prioritize the child’s health, safety, and emotional development. 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.
Why Choose Us?
Free, No-Pressure Consultation
We offer a one-time free, no-obligation consultation so you can get clear answers before making any decisions.
Experienced Attorneys in High-Conflict Family Law Cases
Our lawyers are very good at handling difficult divorce and custody cases. Andrew McKeown, who is a Certified Family Law Specialist and a court-appointed child's counsel, and Kaleen Harris, who has won two legal scholarships and is an experienced family law advocate, are in charge of the team.
A Firm Recognized for Excellence in the Legal Community
Partner with a firm respected in Orange County courts, led by Andrew McKeown, a certified family law specialist and court-appointed child’s counsel, and Kaleen Harris, a top law school graduate and legal scholarship awardee.
Benefit from Local Insight into Orange County Family Courts
We have years of experience working within Orange County’s family courts, including at the Lamoreaux Justice Center, where many Rancho Mission Viejo cases are filed. We understand the nuances of local procedures, how certain judges view specific issues, and the common pitfalls that can delay or derail your case.
We Deliver Resolution-Minded Representation That Prioritizes Progress
We don’t believe in unnecessary delays or inflated billing. Instead, we focus on moving your case forward with a clear, solution-focused strategy. Whether that means settling through negotiation or pushing forward in court, our goal is to protect your rights while helping you move on with your life.
Work with a Male or Female Attorney You Feel Comfortable With
We offer the option to work with either a male or female attorney based on your comfort level and the dynamics of your case. Some clients feel more at ease speaking with someone who shares their perspective or background.
Get Continued Legal Help After Divorce for Modifications and Enforcement
Life doesn’t stop after the divorce decree is signed, and neither does our commitment to you. If you need to adjust child custody, visitation, or support due to a change in job, income, relocation, or your child’s needs, we’re here to help.
Step-by-Step Guide To Working With Our Legal Team
STEP 1
Schedule Your Consultation
We begin with a private consultation, either in person or virtually. This is your opportunity to share your story, ask questions, and understand your legal options. We’ll explain how California divorce laws apply to your situation and discuss issues like custody, support, and property division.
STEP 2
File for Divorce
(or Respond to One)
Once you’re ready, we prepare and file the divorce petition (or response if your spouse has already filed).
All Rancho Mission Viejo divorce cases are filed through the Lamoreaux Justice Center in Orange County, located in Orange, CA.
We handle all the paperwork and ensure documents are properly served to your spouse to officially begin the process.
STEP 3
Request Temporary Orders (If Needed)
While the divorce is in progress, you may need temporary court orders to protect your interests. These can include:
- Temporary custody or visitation schedules
- Child or spousal support
- Exclusive use of the family home
We’ll request these orders through the Orange County court to help provide structure and protection during the process.
STEP 4
Exchange Financial Disclosures
California law requires both spouses to share full financial information. We guide you through preparing your Preliminary Declaration of Disclosure, which includes:
- Income documentation
- Debts
- Property and asset lists
This step is critical to ensure fair division of community property and support calculations.
STEP 1
Schedule Your Consultation
We begin with a private consultation, either in person or virtually. This is your opportunity to share your story, ask questions, and understand your legal options. We’ll explain how California divorce laws apply to your situation and discuss issues like custody, support, and property division.
STEP 2
File for Divorce
(or Respond to One)
Once you’re ready, we prepare and file the divorce petition (or response if your spouse has already filed).
All Rancho Mission Viejo divorce cases are filed through the Lamoreaux Justice Center in Orange County, located in Orange, CA.
We handle all the paperwork and ensure documents are properly served to your spouse to officially begin the process.
STEP 3
Request Temporary Orders (If Needed)
While the divorce is in progress, you may need temporary court orders to protect your interests. These can include:
- Temporary custody or visitation schedules
- Child or spousal support
- Exclusive use of the family home
We’ll request these orders through the Orange County court to help provide structure and protection during the process.
STEP 4
Exchange Financial Disclosures
California law requires both spouses to share full financial information. We guide you through preparing your Preliminary Declaration of Disclosure, which includes:
- Income documentation
- Debts
- Property and asset lists
This step is critical to ensure fair division of community property and support calculations.
STEP 5
Negotiate Agreements or Mediate Disputes
Most Rancho Mission Viejo divorces are resolved without going to trial. We help you reach fair agreements on:
- Child custody and parenting plans
- Child and spousal support
- Division of property and debts
If needed, we facilitate or represent you during mediation sessions. If your case is high-conflict, we strategize for litigation while still exploring peaceful solutions.
STEP 6
Court Hearings or Settlement Conference
If full agreement isn’t possible, the court will schedule a Mandatory Settlement Conference or hearings on contested issues. We represent you before the judge at the Lamoreaux Justice Center, presenting evidence and protecting your rights throughout the process.
STEP 7
Final Judgement and Divorce Decree
Once all terms are finalized, either by agreement or court order, the judge issues a Final Judgement of Dissolution. This is your official divorce decree. We ensure that:
- All paperwork is correctly filed
- Custody and support orders are enforceable
- You fully understand your rights and obligations
STEP 8
Post-Judgement Support (If Needed)
Life changes after divorce. We continue supporting Rancho Mission Viejo clients with:
- Modifications to custody or support
- Enforcement of court orders
- Parenting schedule adjustments
STEP 5
Negotiate Agreements or Mediate Disputes
Most Rancho Mission Viejo divorces are resolved without going to trial. We help you reach fair agreements on:
- Child custody and parenting plans
- Child and spousal support
- Division of property and debts
If needed, we facilitate or represent you during mediation sessions. If your case is high-conflict, we strategize for litigation while still exploring peaceful solutions.
STEP 6
Court Hearings or Settlement Conference
If full agreement isn’t possible, the court will schedule a Mandatory Settlement Conference or hearings on contested issues. We represent you before the judge at the Lamoreaux Justice Center, presenting evidence and protecting your rights throughout the process.
STEP 7
Final Judgement and Divorce Decree
Once all terms are finalized, either by agreement or court order, the judge issues a Final Judgement of Dissolution. This is your official divorce decree. We ensure that:
- All paperwork is correctly filed
- Custody and support orders are enforceable
- You fully understand your rights and obligations
STEP 8
Post-Judgement Support (If Needed)
Life changes after divorce. We continue supporting Rancho Mission Viejo clients with:
- Modifications to custody or support
- Enforcement of court orders
- Parenting schedule adjustments
STEP 5
Negotiate Agreements or Mediate Disputes
Most Rancho Mission Viejo divorces are resolved without going to trial. We help you reach fair agreements on:
- Child custody and parenting plans
- Child and spousal support
- Division of property and debts
If needed, we facilitate or represent you during mediation sessions. If your case is high-conflict, we strategize for litigation while still exploring peaceful solutions.
STEP 6
Court Hearings or Settlement Conference
If full agreement isn’t possible, the court will schedule a Mandatory Settlement Conference or hearings on contested issues. We represent you before the judge at the Lamoreaux Justice Center, presenting evidence and protecting your rights throughout the process.
STEP 7
Final Judgement and Divorce Decree
Once all terms are finalized, either by agreement or court order, the judge issues a Final Judgement of Dissolution. This is your official divorce decree. We ensure that:
- All paperwork is correctly filed
- Custody and support orders are enforceable
- You fully understand your rights and obligations
STEP 8
Post-Judgement Support (If Needed)
Life changes after divorce. We continue supporting Rancho Mission Viejo clients with:
- Modifications to custody or support
- Enforcement of court orders
- Parenting schedule adjustments
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 McKeown handled my very high-conflict custody case with incredible professionalism. My ex was relentless, but Andrew stayed several steps ahead the whole time. What impressed me most was how thoughtful and prepared he was in court, he knew every detail of my case and defended me."
— Jim, Rancho Mission Viejo
“I came into this process overwhelmed and afraid of losing custody of my daughter. Kaleen guided me through every step and helped me stay grounded. She was honest, direct, and never made promises she couldn’t keep but she delivered more than I ever expected."
— Shiela C., Rancho Mission Viejo
FAQS
FAQS
What’s the difference between a divorce lawyer and a divorce attorney?
There’s no difference—both terms mean the same thing. “Lawyer” and “attorney” are used interchangeably in the U.S. Both are licensed professionals who can represent you in divorce proceedings.
Do you offer free consultations for Rancho Mission Viejo residents?
Yes, we offer a one-time free consultation for clients in Rancho Mission Viejo. You’ll speak directly with one of our attorneys to discuss your situation, ask questions, and understand your next steps, no pressure or commitment required.
How much does a divorce cost in Rancho Mission Viejo without a family lawyer?
If you handle it yourself, costs usually include:
- Court filing fee: ~$435–$450
- Service of documents: ~$50–$100
- Optional help (online services, mediation, document prep): $150–$1,000
So, expect a minimum of $500–$1,000. That’s for uncontested cases with no children or major disputes. If anything becomes complicated, costs and delays increase quickly. Also, DIY divorces can lead to mistakes that cost more to fix later.
How long does a divorce take in Rancho Mission Viejo?
California has a mandatory 6-month waiting period from the date your spouse is served. That’s the minimum. The full process can take 6 to 18 months, depending on how quickly both sides reach agreements on things like custody, support, and property.
Here's what happens:
- File your petition at Orange County Superior Court (Lamoreaux Justice Center)
- Serve your spouse
- Exchange financial disclosures
- Negotiate terms or attend mediation
- If unresolved, go to court
- Finalize judgement
The more cooperative the case, the faster it moves.
What’s the quickest way to get a divorce?
The fastest option is summary dissolution, but only if you:
- Were married less than 5 years
- Have no children together
- Own minimal property and debt
- Agree on everything and don’t want spousal support
Even with this, the law still requires a 6-month waiting period from the date of service.
Can I file my own divorce papers in Rancho Mission Viejo?
Yes, you can. You’ll need to:
- Fill out and file forms (Petition, Summons, etc.)
- Pay the filing fee (~$435)
- Serve your spouse properly
- Complete financial disclosures
- Draft and file a settlement or request a court hearing
Forms are available online or at the Lamoreaux Justice Center. But be careful—mistakes can delay or derail your case.
What is the average cost of hiring you as a divorce/family lawyer in Rancho Mission Viejo?
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.
When getting divorced, who pays?
Each spouse usually pays their own legal costs. However, in some cases, one spouse can be ordered to contribute to the other’s attorney fees especially if there’s a big difference in income or financial control. The court decides based on fairness and access to representation.
What is the 5-year rule for divorce in California?
The “5-year rule” applies to summary dissolution. If you’ve been married under 5 years, have no kids, limited assets, and agree on everything, you may qualify for a faster, simplified divorce process. If you’re over 5 years, you’ll need to go through the standard divorce route.
What type of lawyer is best for divorce?
The best type of lawyer for divorce is a Certified Family Law Specialist or an attorney with extensive experience in family law because we ensure that our main focus and priority are divorce, child custody, support, and property issues.
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!
