Why Hire a Certified Specialist?
Thousands of attorneys practice in family law in California, but very few have met the criteria or undergone the rigorous testing to become certified by the State Board. Chelsea M. Norris, Esq. offers the personalized counsel of a highly skilled and experienced family law attorney. Family law disputes can be one of the most painful and stressful experiences to go through in life, made easier by having a caring specialist as your guide. Ms. Norris will walk you through every step of the process with a human touch and attention to detail.
Requirements for Certified Specialists
Very few California attorneys can hold themselves out as certified specialists in a particular practice area. To be certified by the State Bar of California, a lawyer must:
Have focused at least 25 percent of his or her practice in the area of certification over the last five years
Be an active member of the State Bar of California
Pass a written exam
Show a high level of experience and achievement in the area
Complete at least 45 hours of continuing legal education in the selected area
Be in favorable standing with peers and judges
Show substantial involvement in the family law area, as demonstrated by court, hearing and counseling participation.
Areas of Specialization
Certification as a specialist in family law requires that the attorney demonstrate considerable experience in handling a broad range of family law matters, including each of the following:
Child-related disputes related to child custody, visitation, and child support
Spousal support/alimony in long and short-term marriages
The division of property when businesses or complex asset portfolios are involved
Restraining orders and domestic violence
Dissolution of marriage, legal separation, and nullity of marriage
Tax issues incident to dissolution of marriage
Contempt and enforcement issues
Mediation and negotiation of family law disputes
Psychological and counseling aspects of dissolution