Family Law.
Divorce, legal separation, annulment, paternity actions, custody-visitation matters (including move-away requests), child support, spousal support, restraining orders (domestic violence, civil harassment, and elder abuse), prenuptial agreements, and adoption.
While offering excellent representation in the courtroom in a confident manner, we also strive to be that voice of reason during a tumultuous legal battle. Before litigation ensues, however, we make it a point to clearly advise the client of the strengths and weaknesses of the case, and explain the risk associated with not taking an opportunity to obtain a negotiated settlement – if one is possible. Yet, in those cases where settlement is out of the question and your day in court will be had, I will be prepared to litigate.
The process of divorce or legal separation is overwhelming and taxing as it is, and this is why I aim to be as understanding to my client’s needs as I can, while also staying focused on the tactics needed to zealously represent my client – both in and out of court. In these situations, the last thing a client wants to ask is what is the attorney doing with his or her case, or, what exactly is the status of the case. These are two questions a client should never have to ask twice. At the Law Office of William A. Hannosh, we will always take the time to respond to our clients’ questions. We will always explain complex or detailed legal procedures affecting the case. We will never file a motion or request with the courts without the client’s express, written consent to do so. Most importantly, we will not take actions intended to exacerbate the dynamics between the spouses. In other words, we will never “put gasoline on the fire”, and instead, offer problem-solving solutions to the client.
Elder Abuse.
Representing victims of physical and financial elder abuse. In our present age, elder abuse is at an all-time high. Sadly, the perpetrators of elder abuse are, many times, the victim’s own relatives, if not a caretaker or fiduciary with financial responsibilities owed to the victim. If you have reason to believe an elder you know is being abused or mistreated, then please contact my office to schedule a phone or office consultation.
Many times, elders who are abused in an isolated setting are simply too ashamed to open up and talk about what they suffered. Although they might need assistance, they may never bring themselves to ask for help, and they may need a trusted friend or family member willing to communicate their story to an attorney, so that attorney can then render his advice about the matter. Regardless, never allow embarrassment or a sense of shame to keep you from connecting with and retaining the right attorney who will fight for you.
Office Consultations / Limited Scope Representation
Depending on the specific legal matter you are facing, you may decide you just want to consult with an attorney for a set amount of time to receive needed legal advice or guidance in order to know how best to proceed. Even if you decide not to retain this firm to represent you throughout your whole case, we are still happy to serve you on a limited scope. California’s judicial system will allow an attorney to represent you, the client, on a narrow or specific limited scope, as long as the Notice of Limited Scope filed with the courts specifies what the attorney is being tasked with or responsible for completing. Unlike many other law firms in town who are not inclined to serve their clients on a limited scope basis, you are encouraged to contact my firm so we can discuss your need or specific case task – so we can explore the possibility of assisting you on a limited scope basis, if necessary. For example, if you are only needing an attorney to draft and serve formal discovery on your adversary, my firm will be glad to serve in this limited capacity. Or, if you have been ordered to attend a mandatory settlement conference or have chosen to attend private mediation, we are able to provide limited scope representation for such tasks, on an as-needed basis.