Desert Shores Family Lawyers

Thank you for taking the time to review my profile. With over 35 years of experience in the legal and insurance sectors, I have dedicated the last 25 years to practicing law, during which I have had the honor of assisting thousands of clients with their legal issues, including accidents, work injury claims, immigration matters, and family law issues. My firm operates out of multiple locations across Southern California, including Indio, Pomona, Riverside, San Diego, and Cathedral City, with a bilingual staff to cater to a diverse clientele. At our firm, we prioritize our clients and commit to securing favorable outcomes...

Full time mediator with offices in New York City and Southern California.
Palm Springs Office concentrates primarily on divorce, custodial arrangements and disputes related to real estate and probate, as well as family-owned business and vacation homes. New York City Office concentrates on corporate, commercial and finance matters

Extensive training in alternative dispute resolution techniques, including at the Harvard Law School Program on Negotiation, the Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution in London (CEDR), the American Arbitration Association.
(AAA),and the International Mediation Institute (IMI)., Among other panels, he mediates disputes as a member of the mediation panels of CPR,...

I am an experienced Family Law Attorney serving Indio, Palm Springs, Palm Desert and the entire Coachella Valley.

The preservation of the family unit can be achieved, even after a divorce. My parents divorced when I was young, but remained friends throughout my life to this day. I believe, when children are involved, the best interest of the children are paramount. I strive to be fair and foster an equitable settlement. However, when the other side is being less than forthcoming, a more aggressive approach is often needed.

Whether you need a lawyer to provide an...

I successfully represented clients in cases ranging from divorce to fraud investigations, for the last 30 years. As an economist, Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)*, and California State Attorney, I can analyze cases from various angles so that I can determine reasonable resolutions to disputes and provide successful representation for all my clients. In addition to that, I can also communicate with you in Greek, French, Italian, and Spanish, in order to suit your needs.

My practice focuses on Family Law, Fraud Law and Worker's Comp (rated #6 in Rancho Mirage; rated top 10% of 1.5 million lawyers in MartinDale-Hubbell). I...

An understanding lawyer with compassion. Listens to his clients concerns and develops a plan to best meet them. My practice focuses on typical family needs. Family law, child custody, landlord tenant law and estate planning (wills and trusts).

Put over 50 years of Family Law experience to work for you. I am a Certified Family Law Specialist, certified by the Board of Legal Specialization of the State Bar of California. I have extensive trial and divorce mediation experience which assists clients in getting their cases resolved with fewer court appearances, saving them money in legal fees. I have sat as a temporary judge in family law for over twenty years which has given me the experience of evaluating cases in my practice from a judge's point of view....

Ethical family law and divorce attorney, handling high conflict divorces, but also amicable & simple situations. Divorce mediation and collaborative divorce is available through our mediation practice at http://www.DesertFamilyMediationServices.com. Mr. Arnold is a Certified Family Law Specialist.

Attorney Brian Michaels is a 23 year veteran of the California Criminal And Family Law Courts. Attorney Michaels spent the first 8 years of his career as a big city Prosecutor where he cut his teeth in the trial courts of Los Angeles where he earned accolades as a Top Prosecutor. Attorney Michaels worked for the Los Angeles Police Department during the height of the infamous Rampart Scandal as a Civil Defense Attorney. Michaels is unique among Attorneys in Southern California as very few have any Prosecutorial experience and most set out on their own straight out of Law School....

A lawyer who understands the concerns you have and the situations you are going through, may be hard to find. As someone who has been through a divorce and heavily involved in the criminal justice system, attorney Heath L. Baker may understand your concerns regarding your family law, criminal law, and personal injury cases, more than you would expect. Mr. Baker understands what it is like to face emotionally difficult situations, which go beyond “winning” a case. Mr. Baker retired from the Riverside Police Department after obtaining years of experience with the courts, investigations, and the judicial process, seeing both sides of...

Chris is the Founder and Principal of Heritage Legal, PC, with offices in Palm Springs. Heritage Legal, PC offers legal services in the general areas of Estate Planning (Wills and Trusts), Trust Administration, Trustee and Executor services, Probate, Family Law, and Bankruptcy. Chris has focused an important part of his practice on the unique estate and relationship planning needs of the LGBT community and other non-traditional families. Chris earned his B.A. in Russian Area Studies from the University of Maryland, and his Juris Doctorate from The American University, Washington College of Law, in Washington, D.C.

Certified Family Law Specialist Civil Litigator

Attorney Heather Cullen is a Certified Family Law Specialist and practices exclusively Family Law. Attorney Cullen is a native Southern Californian who graduated Cum Laude with a dual bachelor's degree in Philosophy & Law and Society from the University of California, Riverside. Attorney Cullen then earned her Juris Doctor Degree from The University of California at Davis School of Law. Attorney Cullen is currently an active member of the State Bar of California. She is licensed to practice law in the State of California and the U.S. District Court Central District of California. Attorney Cullen is also an active member of the...

William Fitch, otherwise known as "Bill" is a senior attorney at Family Law Matters. Having a civil trial background for nearly two decades before joining the firm, Bill brings a unique knowledge of the law with him. He has tried hundreds, if not thousands, of cases over the years; and has conducted many jury trials. He also has extensive experience in discovery and law and motion issues. Bill's easy-going nature makes him easy to talk to, but do not underestimate his trial skills. Bill would always rather settle a case than try one one, because he recognizes the benefits to...

I’m Scott Levin, a dedicated family law attorney and mediator based in San Diego, California. As the only family law attorney in the greater San Diego area who is also a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, I focus exclusively on mediation, helping clients achieve fair, amicable resolutions without the high costs of litigation. My approach is backed by extensive experience and education: I hold a Juris Doctorate from the University of Virginia School of Law and graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts from New York University. With a deep background in finance, law, and dispute resolution, I’m equipped...

Our tagline, "When you want your case done right the first time," evolved as a result of continued client feedback expressing frustrations with past dealings with the process. Divorce is a difficult process. We are mindful of the emotional aspect as well as the costs involved with each case. Andrew P. Johnson, APC makes every effort to apply the right resources to each task so that we can keep costs at a minimum while still accomplishing your goals.

I am a licensed California Attorney and Certified Family Law Specialist with an office located in Vista directly across from...

I began my legal career as a juvenile dependency attorney. I spent nearly five years working full-time for dependency parents and children. That experience taught me how to be a strong and compassionate advocate, both in the courtroom and out. When Child Protective Services are involved, it is crucial to have a skilled dependency attorney working for you. The same goes for a family law case where you finances and valuable time with your children are at risk. Whether it's a juvenile dependency case or a family law matter, you deserve the time and attention necessary to ease your fears about the...

PHONE CONSULT AVAILABLE. I have personal experience with hundreds of bankruptcy cases, ranging from simple chapter 7 cases to complex chapter 13 cases. I work with the majority of the bankruptcy trustees in this district and have appeared in the 341a hearings hundreds of times. I know the process and the nuances of bankruptcy law. Few attorneys possess my background and extensive experience in this area of the law.

EXCLUSIVE PRACTICE. My practice is limited to bankruptcy cases only. I keep up to date on all the laws related to bankruptcy to make sure I give you the best representation...

“Integrity Matters”
As a young woman, Gina experienced the pain and uncertainty of a protracted custody battle over her first child. It was this experience that caused her to become a lawyer. Her daughter is now happily married and attending medical school. Gina married her second husband in 1992. They have a teenaged son together, who still lives at home.

Gina was licensed to practice law in the state of California in 1997. Since then, she has amassed vast legal knowledge and courtroom experience. Her practice has always been limited exclusively to family law. Over the years, she has learned to listen....

Beshoy F. Shehata is the managing partner. He goes by “B.” B graduated from California Western School of Law and was admitted to the California State Bar in 2017. B is passionate about his career choice and loves helping his clients.

B was born and raised in Cairo, Egypt. He migrated to the United States with his family in 2000. He has six siblings. He always wanted to become an attorney to help those going through tough times. He understands how difficult it is to go through a divorce or a custody battle. He understands the stress and uncertainty that accompanies...

Scottie Leming is one of our senior attorneys. She graduated from Western State University College of Law and was admitted to the California State Bar in 1995. Scottie is an extremely experienced family law attorney and represented victims of domestic violence for twelve years before joining our firm.

Since 1995, Scottie has helped thousands of clients with great success. She understands the legal issues and uncertainties surrounding divorce, child custody and support are personal issues. She knows how to provide emotional support and clearly communicate with her clients. Scottie is well known and greatly respected within our legal community. She is...

Born in Bakersfield, California and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, Mr. Blado is a graduate of California Western School of Law. While at California Western, Mr. Blado studied Family Law and Community Property. During his third year of law school, Matthew was selected to serve as the judicial extern for the Honorable Nancy C. Oesterle.

While attending California Western, Mr. Blado was a founding member of the California Western School of Law Community Law Project which provided free legal assistance to poor and indigent members of the community. It was during this period that Mr. Blado was first exposed to the...

Samantha K. McBride, a distinguished family law attorney, is revered for her adept writing, meticulous attention to detail, and energetic representation. Specializing in family law, domestic violence restraining orders, support, and complex custody cases, she offers clients a custom case plan grounded in sound legal advice and a profound understanding of individual rights, goals, and interests. Clients value her for guiding them through challenging times with responsiveness and compassion, reflected in her superb 10 rating on Avvo.com. Recognized as a California Certified Family Law Specialist (CFLS) by the California Board of Legal Specialization, Samantha's expertise is highlighted in publications like West...

For over 35 years, I have been successfully representing clients facing criminal charges or dealing with family law matters. As the Senior Partner of Wallin & Klarich, A Law Corporation, I work hard to ensure our clients are represented with respect and professionalism. When you hire our firm, you place your trust in a team of attorneys and legal professionals, whose only goal is to obtain the best result possible in your case. You are not alone. We will get through this together.

WE PROTECT PROFESSIONALS AND BUSINESS OWNERS FROM UNFAIR DIVORCE.
Our Law firm is focused exclusively on divorce, child custody, paternity actions, modifications of child support, spousal support, property division, domestic violence and all other issues that fall under the "umbrella" of Family Law. Our passion is our clients. We recognize that while people are going through situations dealing with the breakdown of a marriage or how best to share their children, it is an incredibly challenging and heartbreaking time. It is also very nerve-wracking to have the future of your children, and/or security (financial or otherwise) be unknown or be...

MY PROMISE: My consultations are not on a time clock . . . I will personally review your case and any pleadings which you might bring. Having practiced law for more than 19 years in San Bernardino, Riverside, and Los Angeles County and knowing the majority of the judges, I can give you an honest opinion of the expected results of your particular case. I give intensive attention to crucial details of all legal issues, so you can be sure that we will not miss anything.

CONSULTATION: ...

Attorney James R. Dickinson fights for justice. He provides personalized service to each of his clients and works tirelessly to achieve desired results. Family Law: Divorce, Legal Separation, Spousal & Child Support, Child Custody & Visitation, Pre-martial Agreements, Domestic Violence Restraining Orders, Etc. Personal Injury: Automobile Accidents, Dog Bites, Premises Liability, Wrongful Death Actions, Etc. Civil Litigation: Breach of Contract, Business Disputes, Fraud, Real Property Disputes, Negligence, Interference with Economic Interests, Breach of Fiduciary Duty, Civil Harassment Restraining Orders, Defamation, Etc.

Attorney Kevin A. Polis is a member of the State Bar of California, the San Diego Family Law Bar Association, North County Bar Association, and is Certified as a Specialist in Family Law by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization. Kevin Polis has dedicated his career exclusively to the practice of divorce & family law. Because of this, he is certified by the State Bar of California as a Divorce & Family Law Specialist, a title that few attorneys in our area have, and one that shows a commitment to the practice of the law and delivering...

Stephen V. Smith is a dedicated and skilled Divorce and Family Law attorney. He exclusively represents men and women going through difficult divorces and complex family issues. When possible, Stephen uses a non-adversarial approach, involving mediation and settlement. Because emotions run high in this area of the law, Stephen is also prepared to proceed to court to resolve cases. In addition to over 18 years advocating for clients, Stephen has personal experience with divorce. More than 20 years ago, before becoming an attorney, he represented himself in his own divorce and contentious custody battle. During this difficult time Stephen realized what...

Carrie Block, the managing partner at Holstrom, Block & Parke's Orange County office, brings over 25 years of family law expertise from premier firms. Specializing in high-asset family divorces, collaborative divorce, and mediation in Orange County, she guides clients with compassion to achieve favorable legal outcomes. Carrie, a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) expert, efficiently handles complexities related to 401(k)s, pensions, and benefits in divorce cases without external experts, streamlining negotiations early in the process. Her practice spans divorce, custody, child and spousal support, paternity, and premarital rights. Carrie prioritizes accessibility, aiding clients through the challenging transition of divorce for a...

Kristie Lee Bergamo has presided as a temporary judge in both Orange and Los Angeles Counties. She also has an extensive history serving as minor's counsel, and has taught classes to help other attorneys become certified as minor's counsel. Kristie joined Family Law Matters in August of 2018. She attended Willamette University Law School in Salem, Oregon, and was licensed to practice law in 2002. Since then, she has focused on the practice of family law. Prior to joining Family Law Matters, Kristie was a sole practitioner and earned a reputation as a fierce advocate of her clients. Kristie has...

Alexandria Jaquay is an Attorney at Cullen Family Law Group. Attorney Jaquay is currently an active member of the State Bar of California and practices exclusively Family Law. Attorney Jaquay is a Southern California native. She attended and completed law school while being a full-time paralegal and mother of two. Attorney Jaquay graduated in the top 1% of her class while excelling at legal writing and research. Attorney Jaquay has been with Cullen Family Law Group since 2002, and she has worked on family law matters ranging from a simple separation resolution to a contested divorce, including high asset division...

Michele B. Brown is an attorney licensed in the State of California and the United States District Court for the Southern District. She is a Certified Specialist in Family Law and the head of the Procopio Family Law Group. Ms. Brown has been practicing family law for approximately 25 years. She handles complex family law matters, including dissolution of marriage actions with business valuations, income analysis and financial litigation, custody, move-away and psychological evaluations, as well as pre-marital agreements, post-marital agreements, post judgment matters and enforcement actions. Ms. Brown cares deeply about the law and her clients....

Court Admissions:

United States District Court, Central District of California, May 30, 2007
United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, October 26, 2009
United States District Court, Southern District of California, November 16, 2009
United States Tax Court, November 19, 2009
United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces, January 10, 2010
United States District Court, Eastern District of California, June 3, 2010
United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, July 13, 2010
United States Court of International Trade, January 2, 2014
United States Court of Appeals For The Federal Circuit, June 30, 2015
United States Navy-Marine Corps Court of Criminal Appeals, May 3, 2017
United States...

Jeremy N. Roark brings over a decade of exclusive expertise in family law within the Inland Empire. His practice covers diverse facets of divorce cases, including child custody and support, asset division, spousal support, custody jurisdiction, and matters involving domestic violence and restraining orders. Certified as a Certified Family Law Specialist (CFLS) by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization, Jeremy stands out for his demonstrated excellence in the field. He is also honored as the recipient of the Terry D. Bridges Outstanding Attorney Award from the Leo A. Deegan Inn of Court Board of Directors and Members. As a...

With each individual case, Catherine A. Schwartz brings the knowledge of over twenty years of experience practicing family law and criminal defense in California. Ms. Schwartz's undergraduate studies were in sociology at Philadelphia Christian College. She graduated with a B.S degree in law and a JD at Western State University College of Law, San Diego, in 1991. After passing the California State Bar in 1991, Ms. Schwartz practiced family law, juvenile dependency, and juvenile delinquency law in both San Diego and Riverside, CA. She has been involved in the areas of family law and criminal defense for the past 20...

Hoang-Anh (Anh) Zapien is an accomplished attorney who focuses on guiding and supporting her clients during the court process. Anh prides herself on being an advocate for her clients and their children. As a knowledgeable and effective family law attorney, Ms. Zapien has assisted clients in various family law matters and has extensive experience in litigation, but prides herself on her ability to mediate issues before clients are required to go through a trial. Her comprehensive education in politics, business, and the law has equipped her with the knowledge necessary to be an advocate for her clients both in the...

Mr. Bourne is a former San Diego criminal prosecutor who prosecuted various criminal offenses and also worked in the domestic violence unit (Family Justice Center) of the San Diego City Attorney's Office. After working for the San Diego City Attorney's office, Mr. Bourne joined a civil litigation firm where he gained extensive experience in various matters including corporate and partnership law and marital dissolution. This experience includes pre-trial discovery, valuation of community and corporate assets, and various legal motion and pleading work.

Mr. Bourne also devotes substantial time as conflict counsel. He represents indigent defendants who cannot afford an attorney...