Diligent Divorce Attorneys San Diego

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Looking for Trusted Divorce Lawyers Who Understand San Diego Law?

No matter who you are or your relationship with your soon-to-be-ex-spouse, divorce is often overwhelming, complex, and deeply personal. At JWB Family Law, we know the stakes involved in your divorce—emotional, financial, and legal. Our experienced San Diego divorce attorneys are here to provide the clear guidance, compassionate understanding, and aggressive representation you need to navigate your divorce successfully.

Our Certified Family Law Specialists (CFLS) in San Diego County bring deep expertise in California divorce law and a tailored approach to your unique circumstances. Every case receives focused attention, strategic planning, and proactive representation.

Your complimentary 30-minute initial consultation will be personally conducted by either our founder, Jane Wesley Brooks, CFLS, or Jessica Pederson, CFLS, the firm’s managing partner. Both are highly experienced family law specialists who will listen closely, offer clear guidance, and provide a strategic roadmap centered on your needs and goals.

Contact our San Diego area divorce attorneys today to learn how we can help you start your new life in the right direction.

Why Divorce in California Requires Skilled Legal Representation

Divorce in California involves intricate laws and guidelines. The state’s property division, custody, and financial support regulations can significantly impact your future. Navigating these complexities requires the skilled counsel of attorneys who understand the law and can effectively advocate for your interests. Our attorneys possess extensive expertise and a nuanced understanding of California divorce law, empowering you to navigate the process confidently.

Our experienced San Diego divorce lawyers handle all aspects of your divorce proceedings, including the following:

Asset & Property Division: California’s community property law requires equal division of marital assets and debts. Our attorneys skillfully identify, value, and negotiate property division, ensuring you receive your fair share.
Child Custody and Visitation: Custody decisions significantly impact families. We carefully represent your interests, focusing on achieving custody arrangements that prioritize your children’s well-being and maintain strong parental bonds.
Child and Spousal Support: Determining fair support involves careful analysis of income, earning capacities, and standard of living. Our firm diligently advocates appropriate support arrangements that protect your financial future.
Domestic Violence Issues: We approach domestic violence concerns decisively and sensitively, implementing protective measures swiftly to ensure your family’s safety.

High-Asset Divorce: Handling complex financial portfolios, including businesses, investments, retirement accounts, and real estate, to safeguard your financial interests.
Military Divorce: Navigating the unique issues military families face, including pension divisions, military benefits, and jurisdictional challenges.
Mediation: Offering skilled guidance through divorce mediation to reach amicable resolutions while avoiding the expense and stress of litigation.
Paternity Law: Representing parents in establishing legal parentage and resolving associated custody, visitation, and support matters.
Prenuptial/Postnuptial Agreement Enforcement: Enforcing valid marital agreements with care and precision, protecting your rights, and ensuring the terms are upheld.
Divorce Modifications: Assisting with modifications to custody, visitation, or support agreements when life circumstances significantly change after divorce.
Post-Divorce Enforcement: Ensuring compliance with divorce agreements through strategic legal enforcement actions when necessary.

Every divorce is unique, and navigating California’s complex family law system requires skilled representation tailored to your circumstances. Let our experienced divorce attorneys in San Diego guide you compassionately and effectively through the process. Schedule your complimentary consultation with JWB Family Law today and confidently take the first step toward protecting your future.

How Long Does a Divorce Take in California?

California operates under a “no-fault” divorce law, meaning you don’t have to prove misconduct or wrongdoing by your spouse to obtain a divorce. Simply citing irreconcilable differences is sufficient.

To file for divorce in California, you or your spouse must have lived in the state for at least six months and in the county where you plan to file for at least three months. Once the divorce papers are officially served, California law imposes a mandatory six-month waiting period before the divorce can be finalized.

However, the actual duration of your divorce can vary significantly based on factors such as the following:

Complexity of asset division.
Child custody disputes.
Agreement on support payments.
Cooperation between spouses.

Our experienced divorce attorneys in San Diego work diligently to streamline the process, minimize delays, and move your case efficiently toward resolution. Our attorneys ensure you meet these requirements, helping you avoid procedural setbacks and guiding you seamlessly through filing procedures.

How Does California Handle Division of Property in Divorce?

California follows community property rules, meaning marital assets and debts acquired during the marriage are typically divided equally. Identifying and valuing these assets accurately—including real estate, investments, retirement accounts, and businesses—is crucial.

At JWB Family Law, we meticulously analyze your marital estate to protect your financial interests and ensure a fair and equitable property division.

How is Child Custody Determined in a California Divorce?

Child custody is often one of the most emotionally charged and complex aspects of any California divorce. Parents naturally want what’s best for their children, but differing opinions and high tensions can make custody disputes particularly stressful.

However, it’s crucial to understand that one parent’s demands don’t determine custody outcomes—they’re guided by California law. These legal standards are designed to protect the child’s well-being above all else, and our role is to ensure the court sees the complete picture of what that means in your specific situation.

Child custody in California is based on the child’s best interests, considering factors like the following:

The child’s age and health.
Emotional bonds between the child and parents.
Stability of each parent’s home environment.
Parental ability to cooperate and communicate.

Our skilled attorneys advocate effectively for your parental rights, presenting compelling evidence to secure custody arrangements that protect your relationship with your children and support their overall well-being.

How Are Child and Spousal Support Calculated in California?

Support payments in California depend on various factors, including each spouse’s income, earning potential, the length of the marriage, and the standard of living established during the marriage. Our team expertly evaluates financial information to ensure support obligations are accurately calculated, fair, and sustainable for your future.

What if Domestic Violence is an Issue in My California Divorce?

California law takes domestic violence very seriously, significantly impacting child custody and visitation rights and potentially resulting in restraining orders. Our attorneys act decisively and compassionately to protect you and your family, helping secure protective orders and representing your interests aggressively in court.

What if My Spouse and I Cannot Agree on Divorce Terms?

When divorcing spouses disagree, the case becomes contested, potentially leading to court proceedings. At JWB Family Law, we prioritize resolving disputes through negotiation or mediation whenever possible. However, we are always fully prepared to litigate assertively, ensuring your rights and interests are robustly defended.

Can a California Divorce Settlement Be Modified Later?

Circumstances may change significantly after divorce, impacting child custody, visitation, or support agreements. California law allows for modifications if you can demonstrate substantial changes in circumstances. Our attorneys provide strategic assistance, clearly guiding you through the modification process to protect your ongoing interests.

Why Clients Trust JWB Family Law to Navigate Complex Divorce Matters

No two divorces are alike. At JWB Family Law, we understand the emotional weight and legal complexity that each client brings to the table. That’s why we approach every case with personalized attention, strategic preparation, and a commitment to transparency and compassion.

Our team is here to protect your interests, guide you through difficult decisions, and help you take control of your future, no matter how complex the circumstances.

We provide comprehensive support in every area of your divorce by focusing on the following:

Detailed Case Preparation: We thoroughly gather and analyze financial records, property details, custody considerations, and any relevant evidence to strengthen your position and prepare for every possible scenario.
Proactive Negotiations: We always aim to resolve disputes efficiently and amicably, reducing stress and avoiding costly litigation when possible.
Litigation Readiness: Should negotiations fail, our experienced courtroom advocates are ready to present a strong case on your behalf, ensuring your rights are fully protected.

We also place a premium on communication and support throughout your case:

Prompt responses to your questions so you’re never left in the dark.
Clear explanations of complex legal terms and strategies to help you feel confident and in control.
Personalized attention that reflects the unique needs of your situation and family dynamic.

Because divorce impacts both your emotional well-being and financial security, we take steps to ease that burden through efficiency and transparency:

Attorneys thoughtfully matched to your specific needs and the nature of your case.
Efficient handling of every aspect of your divorce to avoid unnecessary delays and expenses.
Clear and honest billing practices that emphasize fairness and help you plan.

As Certified Family Law Specialists (CFLS), we deliver results-driven divorce representation grounded in compassion, clarity, and responsiveness. At JWB Family Law, you’re never just a case file—you’re a person with a story that deserves to be heard, supported, and protected from start to finish.

Ready to move forward with confidence? Contact JWB Family Law today to schedule your complimentary consultation and experience the clarity, strategy, and care your divorce deserves.

Special Recognition for Military and First Responders

We proudly honor military personnel, healthcare workers, first responders, firefighters, and their spouses by offering a 15% discount on our legal services. This acknowledgment reflects our deep appreciation for their service and contributions to our community.

We Also Focus on the Following Areas in San Diego, CA:

Take Your First Step Toward a New Beginning: Contact Our San Diego Divorce Attorneys at JWB Family Law Today

Our certified family law specialists understand the challenges facing any party litigant with family law matters and aim to reach a fair and equitable settlement agreement to resolve all disputes between parties. We’ll provide you with the information and guidance you need to make informed decisions that are in your best interests.

Our experienced divorce lawyers in San Diego, CA, provide valuable legal assistance and makes sure your rights are protected and you get what you’re entitled to.

Schedule your free 30-minute consultation with either Jane Wesley Brooks, CFLS, or Jessica Pederson, CFLS. As seasoned family law specialists, they’ll take the time to understand your situation, answer your questions, and outline a clear, strategic path forward—right from the start.

Practice Area

Recent Blogs

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March 11, 2025 | Vlog

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February 28, 2025 | Child custody and visitation Divorce

How Long Does It Take to Get a Divorce in California?

February 28, 2025 | Child and spousal support Divorce

Client Success Stories

Jane has been my rock and helped me through my divorce. She is firm and knowledgeable. She is great at client management and helped me stay focused throughout ongoing disagreements with my ex. I refer all of my clients seeking family law help to Jane.

Linda M., San Diego, CA

Jane is the best when it comes to honesty and straight-to-the-point feedback. She doesn’t sugarcoat anything. I received the best service I could have asked for. I especially enjoy the occasional contact she makes to see how things are going. This personal touch from an attorney goes a long way....

Gilbert C., Chula Vista, CA

Before Jane took my case I was not able to see my son very much. It got so bad I had to call the sheriff to try and enforce the agreement my ex and I had. The sheriff told me that I needed to have a court order and that’s...

Peter S., San Diego, CA

Jane is great. She is always straight to the point. She made sure I understood everything that was going on. She is absolutely confident in court, and her paralegals were always helpful. She cared for me and also for my family.

Andres A., Chula Vista, CA

Jane was FANTASTIC in court. She knows the law EXTREMELY WELL. She was able to fight things that were improper or not right, and things that went against the law. She was able to show patterns of behavior and lack of willingness to comply with orders. Not only did she...

Elisa D., Lakeside, CA

Jane was always patient and was willing to explain the legal issues in a way that a layman could understand. She responded to the legal process in a timely manner and was never a cause of delay. Her staff was courteous and efficient, and I enjoyed working with them. My...

Dale G., El Cajon, CA

Jane was so good it makes me want to get divorced again. I went through a horrific divorce, and Jane was there to ensure that I was protected. She had my best interests in mind—and I know for sure without her, I would have been in a very terrible situation.

Michael P., San Diego, CA

Jane is a fantastic attorney. Attentive, aggressive, informative, and compassionate! She assisted me with varied issues including divorce, restraining orders, and real property issues that spanned across two counties—San Diego and Riverside. She was consistently available to me to answer my questions, which is rare for attorneys. I highly recommend...

F.D., San Diego, CA

When you feel your time-tested sense of reality shifting all around you and your reeling mind is busy trying to adjust to the altered attitudes of all the people you trusted….that is when you most need a rock like Jane Wesley Brooks. When you most want to shout out in...

Eric M., San Diego, CA

What do you know, an honest lawyer! Jane took care of my divorce from long distance. Always gave me the straight scoop and weighed the pros and cons of each issue before any were taken on. I feel Jane saved me money navigating through the legal and emotional issues of...

Pete M., Franktown, CO

Going through a divorce is not easy for anyone, but I feel that my divorce was exceptionally rough, and I am so glad that I had you by my side as attorney during this tough time. You always had my best interest in mind, understood all of my concerns, and...

Dr. M.P., San Diego, CA

Can’t imagine too many people enjoying having to engage a family law group but when needed you can’t afford to settle for anything but the best. Jessica, Jane’s associate attorney, continues to prove to be what every client should be looking for—responsive, respectful, understanding, and compassionate while never losing site...

Chris P

Jane is an AMAZING attorney! She got everything done for me ahead of schedule and was one of three very important people to me while going through a very difficult time….very upfront and honest to the core. She tells you exactly what you need to hear and never sugarcoats it....

Vinny C., San Diego, CA

I want to thank you for taking such good care of me during my divorce. I had gone to another lawyer prior to getting your name from a friend, and that was a disaster. Once I was referred to you, you gave me outstanding service and handled my case with...

M.T., San Diego, CA

I took a chance in trying a legal search service when I needed an attorney ASAP when dealing with a potential parental kidnapping case. As one would expect, there were many that responded, all of which claimed to be the best in their field with “years of experience in these...

Laurence R., Warrenton, VA

I want to express my sincere appreciation for your outstanding job. It was a pleasure…particularly because of the exceptional confidence and resolution you irradiate. Thank you for your patience in dealing with me. My recognition also goes to your professional office team—they are absolutely helpful and courteous.

M.D.M., San Diego, CA

Three years subsequent to the finalization of my divorce, I once again retained Ms. Brooks’ services to prepare documents to modify the original court decree in response to my changed employment status. Ms. Brooks expertly guided me…and achieved a revised final settlement that brought a permanent and irrevocable termination to...

D.E.G., San Diego, CA

My husband and I both used Jane for our first marriage issues. She is very informative, strong willed, personable, always had our best interest in mind, and is hands down the best family law attorney out there. I recommend her to everyone I meet who is going through a divorce.

Shauna H., Santee, CA

Personally, I cannot say enough about Jane Wesley Brooks. Honesty was our main focal point of every conversation. She shoots straight from the hip and explains exactly what could happen and what might happen, even sometimes hearing what you did not want to hear. My divorce process was more lengthy...

Hillary S., El Cajon, CA

I had already gone through my divorce and was being taken back to court. I asked a good friend of mine if they knew of a really great attorney and they gave me Jane’s phone number. She is really great at her job and makes you feel very important. I...

Becky B., El Cajon, CA

I cannot say enough great things about Jane Wesley Brooks!!! Unfortunately she wasn’t my first lawyer. I had to fire a lazy, incompetent lawyer first. Jane came to my rescue and took over my case. Fixing all the problems from the previous attorney. She is so knowledgeable about divorce, law,...

Cristin N., San Diego, CA

JANE IS AWESOME! Smart and competent would be enough in any case, but she is also caring and fair and truly wants to help you. I spent my life savings and am still paying off my previous attorney. I can’t express how much I wish I would have known and...

Kim Z., San Diego, CA

I interviewed four attorneys before I picked you to represent me. The others were only interested in my assets, not me personally. But you were different. Your compassion, competence, ethics, toughness, and communication skills were obvious. I made the right pick: During my divorce, you commanded the situation, explained exactly...

R. P., Carlsbad, CA

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I expect from a divorce mediator?

A divorce mediator will help you and your spouse come to an agreement about the terms of your divorce. This can include things like child custody arrangements, spousal support, and division of assets. The goal of mediation services is always to help you and your spouse come to an agreement that is fair and acceptable to both of you. With the help of a mediator instead of a San Diego divorce lawyer, many couples are able to avoid the stress and expense of a traditional divorce, and reach a mutually-agreeable resolution.

Contact our divorce attorney to help you get a better understanding of the mediation process and all aspects of divorce in San Diego County.

What should be included in a prenuptial agreement?

Prenuptial agreements can cover anything that is related to the finances and property of the couple. This can include things like:

How property will be divided if the couple gets divorced
How much spousal support will be paid if the couple gets divorced
What happens to debts and assets if one spouse dies or there is a divorce
What will happen to the family home in the event of a divorce or death

Of course, every couple’s situation is unique, so it’s important to talk to the best divorce lawyer in San Diego, CA, about what should be included in your prenuptial agreement.

What is the difference between a contested and uncontested divorce?

The difference between contested and uncontested divorce in San Diego is whether the divorcing couples litigate or dispute divorce-related issues rather than settle their divorce amicably or through premarital agreements.

An uncontested divorce is common when parties either immediately, or after some litigation, reach a global settlement. Uncontested divorces reach final Judgment by executing a global settlement Agreement commonly referred to as a Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA). All issues related to children, support, and property are included in a global MSA.
A contested divorce is when the parties cannot agree on the terms of their divorce, necessitating court intervention and litigation with assistance from a San Diego divorce attorney. In this instance, a judge decides all issues for the parties either through multiple motions or a trial.

Schedule a free consultation with our San Diego law firm to give you specific legal advice regarding the divorce process, offer legal representation if you’re going through a contentious divorce or need legal services to separate property.

Why would you get a legal separation instead of a divorce?

There are a few reasons why someone might choose not to hire a divorce lawyer San Diego and get a legal separation instead of a divorce. For example, the couple may want to remain married for religious reasons, or they may not have been married long enough to qualify for divorce in their state. Additionally, legal separations can be less expensive and less emotionally charged than divorces.

If you’re considering a legal separation, it’s important to consult with knowledgeable San Diego divorce lawyers on all matters concerning divorce to discuss the options available to you. Our law office will be with you every step of the divorce process, whether it’s divorce mediation, collaborative divorce, or high net worth divorce.

Who are the top divorce attorneys in San Diego and the region?

If you’ve been served divorce papers, JWB Family Law can help you navigate the process and protect your interests. Divorce cases can be stressful, and our top San Diego divorce lawyer will work with you to determine the best way to divide your assets and debts and fight for your rights when it comes to domestic violence, child custody, and spousal support. In addition, our experts can walk you through the mediation process and assist you with divorce in cases of military personnel in San Diego and the nearby areas.

When you work with us, you can count on your divorce attorney in San Diego County to ensure a successful outcome during your proceedings, even in a high net worth divorce, cases including domestic violence and same-sex divorce. For more than a decade, our legal team has been helping individuals go through the divorce process, doing everything in our power to make the proceedings less taxing on you and your family.

What’s more, rely on your San Diego divorce attorney for assistance in divorce dispute proceedings in Temecula, and know we’re here for you in case you’re going through a divorce in El Centro. We understand that this is a difficult time for you, and we will do everything we can to make the entire process as smooth as possible and ensure the most favorable outcome. We’re with you across Southern California, from Temecula to El Centro.

Dedicated Divorce Attorneys in San Diego