Family Law

Are you having legal issues regarding marriage, adoption, or divorce? Are you involved in a custody proceeding? BERNIKER & PFAFF will represent you in all aspects of Family Law. Without question, some of the most emotionally charged legal issues fall under the domain of family law. We offer compassionate and zealous representation in this area.

BERNIKER & PFAFF focuses much of our practice on family law, so we can guide you through the legal process on a variety of family law issues, including but not limited to:

Custody & Parenting Time (Visitation)

We know how important custody and visitation are to you. We have experience in both litigating these matters through trial and sculpting agreements between the parents. We will help you find the solution that works best for your family and situation.

Child Support

Child support can be just as nuanced as custody agreements. Situations and circumstances change, especially during these uncertain times. We can help you understand your obligations and reach an equitable solution that provides for your children.

Parentage/Paternity

We have a depth of experience in helping individuals navigate the difficulties of parentage. One of the most stressful situations that can arise in Family Law is establishing parentage, and in some cases defending it. Let us use our experience to help you in this difficult matters.

Child Abuse & Neglect

The attorneys as BERNIKER & PFAFF have decades of experience in litigating child abuse and neglect, both within the juvenile dependency system and in traditional family court. We can answer your questions and help you find the solution for your situation.

Guardianship

Guardianships can arise in a multitude of situations.  A guardianship is when someone who is not a parent of a child gets custody of that child, due to circumstances which can be both voluntary and involuntary. We can assist with explanations of your legal options, how to ask for a guardianship, and how to end a guardianship. We have a great amount of experience in this area and will help you obtain your goals.

Adoption

Adoptions can be complicated. We can provide you with details about the different types of adoptions, how to proceed and what the best options are for you and your situation. 

Dependency Law

One of the fastest moving and most complicated areas you can deal with in Family Law is the juvenile dependency court process. The purpose of dependency court is to protect minors from abuse and neglect. The Court keeps minors with their families whenever possible. However, the court will take a minor from the parents if it must for the child’s wellbeing and safety. If the court has taken your minor child from your home, we will work with you to navigate the court process, and work with the court, your family, and the minor child to improve the home conditions so that the child can return to your care.