Recent Blog Posts

Palin and Johnston Reach New Custody Agreement

Law Office of Teresa Beyers — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 23:55:00 GMT

With a relationship that has been consistently in the spotlight, whether during the campaign of former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin, or in the years that have followed, the relationship between Levi Johnston and Bristol Palin has been glaringly public. Between their two engagements and their two break ups, it's been tumultuous at best, and even now separated, it is still hardly smooth sailing for the pair. Although a new agreement could at least keep their son from experiencing the ugly relationship.

With a new agreement on child custody, Palin will have primary custody of one year old Tripp, while Johnston will be allowed to visit twice a week. Johnston is also required to pay child support in accordance to his current salary of $72,000 a year.

The final part of the agreement? Neither party are allowed to participate in "trash talking" one another in front of Tripp. He is to receive nothing but positive reinforcement about each party and free from all negative comments.

If you are currently in the middle of a divorce or looking for legal assistance regarding child support or child custody, don't hesitate to contact the Law Office of Teresa Beyers today. By working with an experienced Los Angeles family lawyer, you can rest easy knowing that your future and your rights will be protected to the very best of their ability.

Skype Visitation Ordered In Court Ruling

Law Office of Teresa Beyers — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 23:45:00 GMT

In a recent ruling, State Supreme Court Justice Jerry Garguilo has allowed for New York woman, Debra Baker, to move to Venice, Florida with her children away from their father, James.

If she allows them to video chat.

Judge Garguilo allowed the woman, who has recently suffered from a foreclosure on her home, to take the children, ages six and nine, down the coast line to live with her parents, but did require the long-distance visitation.

James is currently allowed three one-hour Skype calls with his children a week. His lawyer is currently contemplating an appeal on the grounds that his client does not know how to operate the program.

Family law is often a tricky, emotionally charged area of the legal spectrum, and should never be handed off to an inexperienced, apathetic lawyer. If you are currently struggling with issues of divorce, child custody or something similar, it is in your best interest to secure the legal assistance of an experienced Los Angeles family law attorney as soon as possible. By contacting the Law Office of Teresa Beyers, you can be confident that your rights will be protected and that everything possible to help you on your way to a bright future will be done.

New York Governor Signs No-Fault Divorce Bill

Law Office of Teresa Beyers — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 22:55:00 GMT

On Sunday, August 15, New York governor David A. Paterson signed a package of bills into law that included one that would bring New York into the group of states that allow for no-fault divorces.

Instead of couples having to accuse one or the other to gain the ability for divorce, whether they are accusing their partner of infidelity or neglect, it allows them to separate simply on terms of mutual consent. Those who approve of the bill say that it will end what has been a field day of perjury in the court, allowing couples the option to split without the legal battle. Those who disapprove say it will simply send divorce rates skyrocketing.

California was one of the first states to implement such a law, and currently allows for couples to separate on terms of irreconcilable differences. If you are currently looking for an experienced Los Angeles divorce attorney, don't hesitate to contact the Law Offices of Teresa Beyers as soon as possible. We are devoted to giving our clients the personalized legal support they deserve, and will stop at nothing to protect their rights. Whether you are struggling with child custody, spousal support or anything in between, you can positive that your future will be placed in completely trustworthy hands.

Stars of "Medium" and "Hung" Call It Quits

Law Office of Teresa Beyers — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 22:45:00 GMT

It is being reported that star of "Medium," Patricia Arquette, and star of HBO's "Hung," Thomas Jane have officially called it quits after four years of marriage.

Arquette officially filed for divorce on Friday, August 13, and is currently seeking for primary child custody of their seven year old daughter, Harlow. She is also asking courts to deny any obligations on her to pay her former husband any sort of spousal support.

Despite such reports, the split is said to be amicable and the two are mainly concerned with the welfare of their daughter.

Divorce, whether high-profile or not, is a tricky and emotional struggle that should not be treated with anything less than the gravity it deserves. If you are currently considering filing for divorce, or are in need of help in regards to child support, child custody or spousal support, contact the Law Office of Teresa Beyers. By working with a Los Angeles divorce attorney, you can be confident that your future will be protected in every way possible as steps are made to protect your rights. We are completely dedicated to giving our clients the personalized attention that they deserve, and you can rest easy knowing the same level of support will be given to you.

Speidi's Divorce To Be Finalized In Six Months

Law Office of Teresa Beyers — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 22:19:00 GMT

After a relationship that has lasted almost five years in the spotlight, TV reality stars Spencer Pratt and Heidi Montag are finally almost at the close of their very public divorce. Attempting to keep the process out of the courts, the two have instead worked towards quietly signing the papers and settling the issues between themselves.

Married in April of 2009, Spencer was served with the papers in the middle of August. The couple's divorce is to be finalized in six months. Both stars continue to tweet their responses to the process, Montag commenting on her Twitter: "Cleaning house and getting rid of my old life, it feels good to live fresh."

If you are currently looking into filing for divorce, it is in your best interest to contact the Law Office of Teresa Beyers as quickly as possible. By working with an experienced Los Angeles family law attorney, you can be confident that your rights will be protected to the full extent of the law. We are fully devoted to helping our clients and we will stop at nothing at ensuring that they are navigated through the emotional, painful process with as much ease as possible. If you are considering filing for divorce, don't hesitate - contact us today.

Frequently Asked Paternity Questions

Law Office of Teresa Beyers — Tue, 06 Apr 2010 18:50:00 GMT

Why take a paternity test?

Paternity tests are taken to determine if a man is the biological father of a child. Child support and child custody are the two most common reasons why people take paternity tests. In terms of child support, once a man is found to be the father, the mother can ask the court to order the man to pay child support. Similarly, if a man is found not to be the father, he can ask the judge to dismiss child support obligations. In regards to child custody, once a man has learned he is the biological father, he has legal grounds to seek custody and visitation rights.

Do paternity tests need to be ordered by the court?

When paternity tests are taken for one's own peace of mind, it's perfectly acceptable to go through a private testing company. However, the courts tend to only accept paternity tests from laboratories and testing facilities they approve, especially if a man's child support obligations and rights to child custody are on the line.

What if the alleged father is dead or missing? Can a paternity test still be taken?

Yes. Either the man's parents or siblings can be tested, or if a sample of the man's hair, blood, or body tissue is available, the laboratory can test the samples.

Can a paternity test be taken before a child is born?

Yes, however, the test can only be done during the 10^th and 24^th week of the woman's pregnancy. If it is past the 24^th week, paternity testing must be put off until the baby is born. If it is in between the 10^th and 24^th week of pregnancy, it is still important to consult a doctor to determine if there are any risks involved.

What if the mother doesn't consent or won't participate in the testing?

You can ask the court to order the mother to participate in the testing, or you can simply go around her back and take the test anyway. That being said, some courts will only accept results from those tests taken with the mother's consent and participation.

If you have any additional question about paternity or paternity testing, we'd be happy to answer your questions and address any concerns you may have. Contact a Los Angeles family law attorney at the Law Office of Teresa Beyers today by calling (213) 236-4400!

James Van De Beek Reaches Divorce Settlement With Wife

Law Office of Teresa Beyers — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 01:10:00 GMT

It was reported today that James Van Der Beek, former star of the popular teen drama Dawson's Creek, has reached a divorce settlement with his wife Heather McComb.

Van Der Beek and McComb were able to amicably resolve their divorce through mediation, a type of alternative dispute resolution that many divorcing couples prefer due to its time and cost effectiveness.

According to court documents, Van Der Beek earns about $35,000 a month. He agreed to pay McComb $7,750 a month in spousal support. In return, McComb agreed to let Van Der Beek keep their home in Hollywood, and she will not be receiving any of the money he earns off residuals from his acting career and other various projects. The couple has no children, so custody and child support were not issues that needed to be addressed.

Van Der Beek ended their seven-year marriage when he filed for divorce in November, citing irreconcilable differences.

If you are thinking about filing for divorce in Los Angeles, we invite you to please contact the Law Office of Teresa Beyers. We have extensive experience in California family law, and have helped clients throughout all areas of Los Angeles file for divorce. We've handled everything from highly contested divorces litigated in court, to very uncontested divorces resolved through mediation. To arrange a consultation with a Los Angeles divorce attorney at our office, please call (213) 236-4400.

Benefits of Alternative Dispute Resolution in a Divorce or Family Law Case

Law Office of Teresa Beyers — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 19:35:00 GMT

Alternative dispute resolution is a way for people to resolve their divorce, child custody dispute, or any other family law matter without going to court for trial or litigation. For those people who wish to spare themselves from costly litigation, it's in your best interest to consider alternative dispute resolution as an option. ADR offers many benefits that litigation simply does not, such as:

ADR is less time consuming. Through ADR you may be able to settle your case within a few months or even several weeks, as opposed to litigation which can take many months or even a year or more.
ADR saves money. The sooner your case is resolved, the less money you'll spend in the long run on attorney fees, court costs, litigation expenses, and other legal fees.
ADR gives you more control. Instead of the judge deciding an arrangement or outcome for you, you and the other party have the power to decide how you'd like the various issues of your divorce or family law matter to be settled.
ADR is more satisfying. You are more likely to reach an arrangement, agreement, or settlement that you're happy with than you would in litigation. In litigation, not everyone wins. But in ADR, you and the other party have the power to reach an outcome that works for everyone.
ADR preserves relationships. In litigation, the parties are often pitted against each other. This can lead to fighting, name calling, and downright hatred for each other. Things aren't like that in ADR. ADR fosters open communication and encourages the parties to work together. This is especially important for those people with children who'll need to interact with one another in the future.

To learn more about the benefits of alternative dispute resolution, please feel free to contact a Los Angeles divorce lawyer at the Law Office of Teresa Beyers. We have handled countless divorce cases on behalf of clients throughout Los Angeles, and truly believe in the value and effectiveness of ADR.

Contact the Law Office of Teresa Beyers today by calling (213) 236-4400!

Is the Economy Keeping You in an Unhappy Marriage?

Law Office of Teresa Beyers — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 18:20:00 GMT

The recession is taking its toll on more than just the unemployment rate. With the downturn in the economy has come a housing crisis that is trapping unhappily married couples from filing for divorce.

If you and your spouse are worried about how a divorce will affect your finances, you're not alone. Countless married couples from around the country feel pressure to stay together solely because they are afraid they will not be able to support themselves without two incomes. This problem is exacerbated by the poor housing market. A large majority of divorcing couples rely on the money they expect to receive from the sale of their home to help finance their new separate lives. They can use that money to purchase their own homes, buy new furniture, or even save some money in a safety net.

But since the housing crash, many homes have declined drastically in value, and numerous families are upside down on their mortgages. It's understandable why people who owe more on their home than what it's actually worth may be hesitant to divorce. Since California is an community property state, any and all debts, including mortgage debt, must be divided between the spouses. For some people, it's just not worth the hassle, headache, and lack of security to file for divorce, so instead they stay in unhappy marriages and wait for the economy to pick up.

At the Law Office of Teresa Beyers, we hate hearing stories like this, and are committed to doing everything we can to help those people who wish to be divorced find a way so they can. Rarely is there ever only one option. If you are stuck in an unhappy marriage that you're afraid to leave solely because of your finances, please take a moment to contact a Los Angeles divorce attorney at our office. We can help you pursue all possible options to find a solution that works best for you.

To set up an appointment to discuss your situation, please contact the office today by calling (213) 236-4400!

CSI Actor’s Girlfriend Arrested for Domestic Battery

Law Office of Teresa Beyers — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 18:10:00 GMT

The girlfriend of former CSI star Gary Dourdan was arrested on domestic violence related charges following an incident that left the actor with multiple scratch marks on his body.

Dourdan’s girlfriend, Maria Asis del Alamo, was booked on misdemeanor domestic battery charges. Responding to a call, authorities arrested Alamo and brought her into custody after noticing the scratch marks on Dourdan.

Alamo has since been released on $20,000 bond.

When to Contact a Domestic Violence Lawyer

It is important to reach out for help at the first sign or instance of violence and/or abuse. All too often victims of domestic violence hold off from seeking the protection and relief they need because they assume the abuse will eventually stop. The truth is even one instance of domestic violence or abuse is one time too many.

If you or someone you care about is the victim of violence or abuse, we urge you to contact our office right away. At the Law Office of Teresa Beyers, we understand you may feel embarrassed, hesitant, or scared to step forward. We want you to know we are here for you and will do everything we possibly can to help stop the violence once and for all. We can assist you in obtaining a restraining order and help you take advantage of other options and resources to ensure your protection.

To speak with a Los Angeles domestic violence attorney at the Law Office of Teresa Beyers, please call (213) 236-4400 today!

Actress Kate Winslet and Director Sam Mendes Are Divorcing

Law Office of Teresa Beyers — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 17:50:00 GMT

It appears another one of Hollywood’s golden couples is heading to divorce court.

A London-based firm has announced that Oscar-winning actress Kate Winslet and her Oscar-winning husband, director Sam Mendes, are getting a divorce.

The rumor is that Winslet and Mendes have been having trouble for the last year, ironically not long after filming the movie Revolutionary Road. The movie, directed by Mendes and staring Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio, focuses on the turbulent relationship between a young married couple in the 1950s. To the outside world it appears they are the perfect couple, but behind closed doors Winslet and DiCaprio’s characters struggle with major issues of happiness and commitment.

The firm handling the divorce said, in a statement, that the decision to divorce was “entirely amicable and is by mutual agreement." In the same statement the firm also said that both Winslet and Mendes are "fully committed to the future joint parenting of their children."

The couple has one child together, 6-year-old Joe, and also raise Kate’s 9-year-old daughter Mia from a previous marriage.

Thinking of Filing for Divorce?

An experienced Los Angeles divorce attorney at the Law Office of Teresa Beyers can provide you with all the help you need if you are thinking about filing for divorce. Deciding to divorce is not an easy decision to make, but you if feel the best situation for you and your spouse is to terminate your marriage, then we’re here to help. You can trust an attorney at our office to help you both mentally and legally prepare for the weeks and months that lie ahead. Furthermore, should you choose to work with an attorney at our firm, you can feel confidant knowing your rights in regards to property division, alimony, child support and child custody will be aggressively advocated and protected throughout entire divorce process.

For more information about our divorce services, please don’t hesitate to call (213) 236-4400 today!

Gang Member Asks Court for Paternity Test

Law Office of Teresa Beyers — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 04:55:00 GMT

It appears a member of an Illinois street gang is trying to change his old ways and do right.

Timothy M. Schmitt, a known member of the Latin Kings Nation street gang, is asking the court for help in determining whether or not he is the father of a child born to Ashley C. Arwood. Schmitt believes he might be the father of Arwood’s son and therefore had the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services file papers with the La Salle County Circuit Court requesting a paternity test.

Schmitt needs the judge to order the DNA test. If the DNA proves Schmitt is the father, he will be held responsible for ensuring the child is supported until it reaches adulthood.

Arwood is no stranger to the criminal court room either. She is currently in county jail on cocaine related charges. Schmitt served time for dealing and selling cocaine as well, but is now a free man.

Need Help With a Paternity Issue in Los Angeles?

This case sheds light on an important issue for both men and women. Men, if you think you’re the biological father of a child, you should speak with an attorney about requesting a paternity test. If the test proves you are the biological father, you will have legal grounds to seek custody and visitation rights. Women, if you believe a man is the father of your child, you can ask the court to order that man to take a paternity test. If the DNA test proves the man is the father of your child, you will have grounds to collect child support and health benefits from him.

If you are involved in a paternity dispute and are searching for an experienced Los Angeles family law attorney to help you with your case, do not hesitate to contact the Law Office of Teresa Beyers today!

Montel Williams Involved in Family Dispute

Law Office of Teresa Beyers — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 13:40:00 GMT

Former TV talk show host Montel Williams is in a legal battle not only with his ex-wife, but also with his two teen-age children.

Williams and his ex-wife, Grace Morley, have been involved in a child custody dispute for nearly a decade—her wanting full legal and physical custody of the children and Williams trying to hold on to his decision-makting authority. But now his children are getting involved.

According to the New York Daily News, Montel II, 16, and Wyntergrace, 15, are telling their dad that if he doesn’t step up to the plate and become more actively involved in their lives he should step aside and let their mother make all of their legal decisions. Motel II said he doesn’t really have a relationship with his father and that his dad has constantly broken his trust. Wyntergrace shares a similar sentiment, stating she has only seen her father four times in the last five years.

In addition to asking their father to step aside, the children also want him to pay for their attorney’s fee. But according to Williams’ attorney, his financial situation is “extremely perilous,” and is claiming he cannot afford to pay the attorney fee. This claim was made despite the fact that Williams is current on his $18,700-a-month child support payments, and has achieved success with his own TV talk show (now canceled), a radio talk show, a best-selling book, and a stint as an infomercial pitchman.

If you have a child support or child custody issue that needs to be addressed, you can turn to the Law Office of Teresa Beyers for experienced representation you can trust. To schedule an appointment with a Los Angeles divorce lawyer at the office, please call (213) 236-4400.

Child Support Modifications Increase During Recession

Law Office of Teresa Beyers — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 02:10:00 GMT

Parents around the country are having a hard time keeping up with their child support obligations, in large part due to the high unemployment rate caused by the recession. As job layoffs continue and more and more parents become strapped for cash, many are falling behind on their child support payments, and have begun turning to the courts for help.

Courts in every state, including California, have seen an increase in the number of parents requesting a modification of their child support order. If you are struggling to make your child support payments, you should take a moment to speak with an attorney at our office about requesting a modification. The courts will usually agree to lower a parent's child support obligations if the parent can demonstrate they have experienced a serious financial hardship or a significant change in circumstances. This might include a job layoff, trouble finding a new job, a debilitating injury, or being diagnosed with a life-threatening illness.

At the Law Office of Teresa Beyers an experienced Los Angeles divorce attorney can help you fill out the necessary paperwork to request a modification, and explain to the judge why you deserve to have your child support payments lowered. Judges understand that many parents are struggling, and are usually willing to help as long as the request for the modification is done in the right way.

To set up an appointment with an attorney at our office, please call (213) 236-4400 today!

Tips on How to Be Happy After a Divorce

Law Office of Teresa Beyers — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 20:50:00 GMT

Divorce is rarely a walk in the park. In fact, some experts say the only thing more emotionally stressful than a divorce is the death of a spouse or child. This stress can lead to depression, anxiety, and a number of other health issues, such as heart disease or diabetes.

If you are experiencing post-divorce depression, you are not alone. And while many divorced men and women suffer from depression, there are things people can do to increase their chances of avoiding it or overcoming it.

Therese J. Borchard, a depression expert and noted author, wrote an article for PsychCentral in which she discusses several ways to beat depression after a divorce. Here are some of the tips she offers:

Find something you enjoy doing that will keep your mind off the divorce. Concentrating on something else will help you to not dwell on the divorce.
Change up your routine or try something new. It will help you focus on the new thing in your life rather than the past. Going out into the world and doing new things is also a reminder that life isn’t over just because a marriage ended. Go live your life!
According to psychotherapist Roberta Temmes, planning is one of the most therapeutic things you can do during a difficult time. Temmes suggests planning anything and everything. You could plan something elaborate, like a dinner party, or something simple, like a trip to the grocery store. Temmes says there is no limit to what you can plan: plan a dinner date, plan when you’ll go to the dry cleaners, plan when you’ll start a new project, plan a vacation, plan to call a friend, plan when you’ll read a book, plan when you will got to the store to buy the book, etc.
Clean and organize your home. Throw away anything that reminds you of your marriage or your ex-husband or wife. Also, reorganize the furniture or redecorate the house with new stuff so that it feels fresh. This is a healthy way to bring closure to your marriage while creating space for the new things in your life.
Take the high road. Although it may seem satisfying to seek revenge on your spouse, that satisfaction is only temporary, and it won’t help you get over the divorce any faster. Taking the high road will make you feel good about yourself, and will help prevent an un-needed war with your ex.
Don’t waste your energy on things out of your control. Divorce is an emotionally taxing process, so it’s in your best interest to rest and preserve your energy for things that make you happy.

For more helpful tips on how to cope with depression and other emotions following a divorce, please feel free to contact the Law Office of Teresa Beyers today to speak with a knowledgeable Los Angeles divorce lawyer.