Family Law Services
At Chopra Law Office, we understand that family matters are deeply personal and often emotionally challenging. Whether you are facing a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or needing guidance with adoption or support issues, our goal is to protect your rights and help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
We combine compassionate counsel with strategic legal representation to resolve family law issues efficiently—whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
Our Family Law Services
Divorce & Legal Separation
We guide clients through contested and uncontested divorces, property division, and spousal support matters. Our approach prioritizes fairness and practical solutions while safeguarding your financial and emotional well-being.
Child Custody & Visitation
Your child’s best interests are always at the center of custody and visitation disputes. We work to create parenting plans that foster stability and maintain healthy parent-child relationships, while vigorously advocating for your parental rights.
Child & Spousal Support
California law sets clear guidelines for support, but each family’s circumstances are unique. We help calculate fair support obligations and ensure enforcement or modification when life changes occur.
Domestic Violence & Restraining Orders
We provide immediate, confidential assistance to individuals facing domestic violence. Our office helps survivors obtain protective orders while also representing individuals who have been wrongfully accused.
Adoption & Guardianship
Expanding your family is a meaningful step. We assist with private adoptions, step-parent adoptions, and guardianship proceedings, ensuring compliance with California law and protecting the best interests of the child.
Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements
We draft and review agreements that protect your assets, clarify financial expectations, and provide peace of mind for couples entering or already in marriage.
Why choose
Chopra Law Office?
✰ Personalized Attention – Every family is different. We tailor our legal strategy to your needs, values, and goals.
✰ Compassionate Advocacy – We approach sensitive matters with empathy while standing firm to protect your rights.
✰ Clear Communication – We keep you informed at every stage, ensuring you understand your options and the likely outcomes.
✰ Holistic Guidance – Beyond the legal process, we provide resources and referrals to help families rebuild and thrive.
Family Law Service Rates
At Chopra Law Office, we believe in transparent and fair pricing. Family law matters are often stressful, and knowing what to expect financially helps our clients plan with confidence. Below is a sample of our typical fee structures. Please note that actual fees may vary depending on the complexity of your case.
Initial Consultation
30-minute phone or video consultation: $150
1-hour in-depth consultation (in-person or Zoom): $300
(Consultation fees may be credited toward legal services if you retain our office.)
Flat-Fee Services (Uncontested Matters)
At Chopra Law Office, we believe in transparent and fair pricing. Family law matters are often stressful, and knowing what to expect financially helps our clients plan with confidence. Below is a sample of our typical fee structures. Please note that actual fees may vary depending on the complexity of your case.
Uncontested Divorce (no children, no property division ): $2,500 – $3,500
Uncontested Divorce with Property or Children: $4,000 – $5,500
Prenuptial Agreement (drafting and review): $2,000 – $3,000
Postnuptial Agreement: $2,500 – $3,500
Step-Parent Adoption: $3,000 – $4,500
Guardianship Petition: $3,500 – $5,000
Hourly Retainer Services (Contested Matters)
Some family law cases require ongoing advocacy, negotiation, or litigation. In these matters, we require a retainer deposit and bill against it at an hourly rate.
Attorney Hourly Rate: $350 – $450 per hour
Paralegal Hourly Rate: $150 – $200 per hour
Typical Retainer Deposit: $5,000 – $10,000 (depending on complexity)
Examples of cases handled under retainer:
Contested Divorce
Child Custody & Visitation Disputes
Child Support or Spousal Support Modifications
Domestic Violence Restraining Orders
Additional Costs
Please note that court filing fees, service of process, expert witness fees, and other case-related expenses are separate from attorney’s fees. We will always provide an estimate of these costs in advance.
Payment Options
We accept:
Credit/Debit Cards
Checks
Bank Transfers
Flexible payment arrangements in select cases
Family Law - Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I really need a lawyer for my divorce?
While it is possible to file for divorce without a lawyer, having an experienced attorney ensures that your rights are protected, your paperwork is accurate, and your case moves forward smoothly. Even in uncontested cases, legal advice can help you avoid costly mistakes.
2. What is the difference between legal separation and divorce?
A legal separation allows spouses to live apart and resolve issues like support and custody without formally ending the marriage. A divorce (dissolution of marriage) legally terminates the marriage and allows both spouses to remarry in the future.
3. How is child custody decided in California?
California courts base custody decisions on the best interests of the child. This includes factors such as the child’s health, safety, emotional ties with each parent, and each parent’s ability to provide a stable environment.
4. How long does it take to finalize a divorce in California?
California has a mandatory six-month waiting period from the time divorce papers are served before a divorce can be finalized. The overall timeline may be longer depending on the complexity of the case and whether issues are contested.
5. How are child and spousal support calculated?
Child support is generally determined using statewide formulas that consider each parent’s income, custody arrangement, and other factors. Spousal support (alimony) is more discretionary and considers factors like the length of the marriage, income disparity, and lifestyle during the marriage.
6. What if my spouse and I agree on everything?
If your divorce is truly uncontested (both spouses agree on custody, support, and property division), the process can be much quicker and less expensive. Our office can help prepare and file the paperwork to make sure the agreement is legally enforceable.
7. Can custody or support orders be modified later?
Yes. Custody, visitation, and support orders can be modified if there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a change in income, relocation, or the child’s needs.
8. What should I do if I am facing domestic violence?
If you are in immediate danger, call 911. For legal protection, our office can help you file for a domestic violence restraining order (DVRO) to protect you and your children from abuse.
9. Will my case go to court?
Not always. Many family law cases are resolved through negotiation or mediation. However, if a fair agreement cannot be reached, our office is prepared to represent you in court.
10. How much will it cost to hire a family law attorney?
Costs depend on whether your matter is contested or uncontested. We offer flat-fee services for straightforward cases and hourly retainers for complex disputes. During your consultation, we provide a clear breakdown of fees and payment options.
👉 Still have questions? Contact Chopra Law Office for a confidential consultation and tailored guidance.
📞 (408) 409-5002 | 📧 sheetal.chopra@chopralawoffice.com
Protect What Matters Most — Your Family.
Family law issues are often overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. Let Chopra Law Office guide you with compassion and strength.
Contact Chopra Law Office, P.C. today to schedule a consultation.
Offices in Livermore and Pleasanton. Serving clients across the Bay Area and California.