Legal Question in Family Law in California
I was served last Thu for a hearing on 5/18. In the papers I am asked to attend a deposition on 5/11 at Ex's lawyer office. The paper does not say COURT ORDER. Do I have to attend? I've been divorced for 2yrs (married 9yrs)& now she accuses me of hurting the kids b/c I called her names in front of them. There was a short period of reconcilation that ended about 3/27 and arguemnets & name calling from 3/27 to 4/7. She filed a decleration accusing me of all kinds of lies: Stalking, Sexuall Asault and Harrassment. The court garnted her a temporary restraining order and 100% legal custody (was 50/50) and suerpvised visitaion (physical custody was 85 her /15 me). I want to get the restraining order lifted and contest the allegations.
2 Answers from Attorneys
You really have too much to lose to do this yourself. You need to retain an attorney. You face could face future employment problems, if not criminal penalties, and losing time with your kids. I have had clients in your situation, and was able to obtain a good result, but that was because they didn't try to do it themselves. I don't know of too many people who can remain calm and composed when someone is making serious false allegations that can have long term consequences, and most importantly, threatening them with losing their children. Good luck.
You are already down by five in the bottom of the 9th here. You need a lawyer. If you read my responses to other questions you will see that I favor people doing things themselves when they can handle it. This is NOT one of those situations.