Proven Excellence
The attorneys at Schiff & Shelton have proven themselves to past clients and the legal community, let them prove themselves to you.
Getting Results
Whether it be through settlement, arbitration, or trial, Schiff & Shelton get the best results for their clients.
Our Mission
We are committed to delivering efficient and cost-effective legal services with a focus on communication, responsiveness, and attention to detail.
Our Vision
Legacy, Vision, Experience, Resources, Preparation, Integrity, Ethics. Our clients are our interest. Their rights are our interest.
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Schiff & Shelton are here to help you.
The legal team at Schiff & Shelton are at your service. We offer reliable legal advice and representation in various matters. Learn more about our legal practice and its practice areas.
Our attorneys offer legal assistance with a high degree of specialized knowledge. Years of experience and our in-depth knowledge guarantee tailor-made, targeted solutions. Browse through our website to learn more about our legal practice and the practice areas of law in which we specialize.
Divorce and Family Law
We help clients navigate the complexities of Asset Division, Custody and Visitation, Support, and many other issues.
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Eviction and Real Estate
Landlords are often faced with the complex process of evicting a tenant, and when that happens, you want a real law firm with real attorneys handling your case.
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Non-Profit Consultation
Years of involvement with non-profits, as both counsel and board members, are a particular area of interest at Schiff & Shelton.
See PracticeTrusted by Clients
“So grateful… Ralph was recommended by a good friend, so glad I trusted her and him! Knowledgeable, straight shooter and a wonderful human being. I would highly recommend him.”
“You can relax with Ralph on the job… Ralph has been representing me for years with the attention to detail and passion i could only wish for in my representation. He has truly been there through my confusion and emotional support throughout his tinier with me. I could not ask for a better person to be there for me and my son. Thank you Ralph…A++++ people.
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“Very Professional… Ralph and his staff were so professional and efficient, they helped the procedure go very smoothly. Ralph has extensive experience , which gives him a thorough understanding of my case. From your first conversation with Ralph, you immediately become aware of his integrity and commitment, and moreover, the passion he exudes for his work. Any concern I raised was immediately addressed.
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“Best Lawyer ever!… Ralph is the real deal. Knowledgeable, experienced, and supportive, he’s been my company and personal family attorney for over 20 years. I count on Ralph for his complete understanding of the law and his straight-forward guidance – especially on highly sensitive family matters. My advice? Don’t hesitate to work with Ralph. And you’ll be happy he’s on your side.”
“Thank You Ralph… Ralph is as knowledgeable as they come. His understanding of the law is second to none. He has helped to change the face of my business and is always ready to offer his help and advice. I rest easy knowing that I can count on Ralph when I need him.”
Our Attorneys
Laurie Schiff
Attorney
Laurie is the Managing Partner, and ensures that cases we handle are closely monitored. Litigation can be a significant investment, and she works with our clients to ensure that expenses are controlled. Her experience includes hundreds of court trials, so she is very aware of the importance of the procedural aspect of the practice. She has broad knowledge beyond Family Law, and is a highly sought after advisor in particular areas of interest.
(949) 417-2211
Ralph C. Shelton II
Attorney
Ralph, the Senior Partner, was born and raised in Orange County, and is a highly skilled litigator. He has tried hundreds of cases, including court trials and jury trials, and has an intimate knowledge of Family Law. Respected in his field, he has lectured and written about Family Law and Trial Practice. He makes a point to define goals with our clients, and approaches litigation with an understanding of the highly personal nature of Family Law.
(949) 417-2211
Questions
Some common questions about family law.
I have a simple question, can I email you?
No, that’s not practical. It’s highly unlikely that all the information we would need would be in your email, and we’d have to ask you some question. We also have to be able to ensure that there is no conflict of interest before rendering any advice. It’s always best that you give us a call, and take it from there.
Do I need a lawyer for my divorce?
Even divorces with minimal conflict can be complicated. You may think that you and your
spouse are in agreement about major points including financial settlements, property and
children. It is important that an experienced advocate review your settlement and work
independently on your behalf to ensure that your immediate and future rights are secure.
How long does a divorce take?
When divorcing, you may wonder how long it will take. A divorce could be finalized in a few days, if the parties already know what they want to do and have all their financial information in order for the attorneys, or could be drawn out over years, depending on the issues that you and your spouse face. Working with an experienced attorney can minimize the time and expense of litigation and ensure that your rights are protected.
How does a court divide marital property?
California is a community property state, meaning that all property is considered either
“community” or “separate” property. At the time of divorce, the courts will divide all community property equally between the parties. Community property is property that is acquired during marriage, other than by gift to one or the other of the parties or by inheritance. Separate property is property that is acquired before marriage and after separation and by gift or inheritance during marriage. Although these definitions may seem to be simple, characterization of property as community or separate property, on divorce — especially accounts and other property that have been commingled — can be a complicated process.
Am I entitled to spousal support or will I have to pay spousal support?
If you are a dependent spouse, you may be entitled to spousal support. Spousal support
determinations can be complicated because of the discretion given to the court. An experienced attorney can present your case effectively. The court will consider a number of factors including: the earning capacity of each party, the standard of living established during the marriage, the earnings and marketable skills of each party, and many other factors.
Can I get a modification to a divorce judgement or order?
If you have an original divorce order that establishes custody, child support or spousal support, you may be able to obtain a modification to that order based on a significant change in circumstances. Custody arrangements can be changed if one party relocates or if the child has different needs. A support determination could be adjusted based on an increase or decrease in income, such as losing a job, getting a new job with different pay, or retirement. We can help you obtain a modification or challenge a proposed modification. It is important to understand that support orders cannot be modified retroactively. Therefore, as soon as there is a need for a modification of a support order, you should immediately consult a family law attorney.
How are attorney fees apportioned?
In California divorces, the court has the authority to order a party to pay some or all of the attorney’s fees and litigation costs of the other spouse. The purpose of such orders is to make sure that both parties have access to quality legal representation to level the playing field so that the party who has more assets or income cannot overwhelm the other spouse. If you feel you cannot pay an attorney to represent you, you should still check with a family law attorney to see if that is really the case. It may be that we can quickly obtain funds from the other party so that you can have representation.
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