Ventura Family Lawyers
Our attorneys at SANTO MEHAS A Professional Law Corporation have over 70 years of combined experience advocating for our clients’ best interests. We represent clients in a variety of family law services, including:
Devoted Advocacy for Families in Their Time of Need
As you compete with your current spouse on matters such as child custody or alimony, or are dealing with a different family law issue, you need compassionate and powerful representation. Here at SANTO MEHAS, we are committed to finding the best resolution for your unique family law issue. You can have confidence that we will always put your child or children first.
Our team of experienced attorneys knows the importance of protecting the rights and interests of the family as a whole, which is why we keep this focus through the entirety of each case. We can put our combined 7 decades of experience to work for your case to defend your rights.
How Long Does It Take to Resolve a Family Law Case?
The time required to resolve a family law case in Ventura can vary significantly depending on several factors. The complexity of the issues involved, the level of cooperation between the parties, and the court's schedule all play a role in determining the duration of the case. For example, an uncontested divorce, where both parties agree on all major issues such as child custody, spousal support, and property division, can be resolved relatively quickly—often within a few months. However, if the case is contested and involves disagreements over these critical issues, it may take a year or more to reach a resolution.
More complex family law cases, such as those involving high-value assets, business ownership, or contested custody battles, can take much longer to resolve. In these cases, the discovery process, which involves gathering and exchanging information between the parties, can be time-consuming. Additionally, if the case goes to trial, scheduling conflicts and court backlogs can further extend the timeline. It's important to work closely with a Ventura family law attorney who can help navigate the process efficiently and advocate for a resolution that meets your needs.
To learn more about our services, contact us online or call us at (805) 222-7818. We offer same-day appointments!
Our Satisfied Clients
Real Stories from Real People
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“Michael and Donna are amazing!”
Michael and Donna are amazing! Very supportive, quick with responses and they made my proceedings go so smoothly, providing all information and options I needed to decide what was best for me, and are there if I'm in need of any other information. Highly recommended!- Kristin N. -
“I’d choose her services again without hesitation”
“I’d choose her services again without hesitation”- Parker C. -
“Donna, through her vast experience, was able to give me my financial life back and has made it possible for me to plan for my future.”
- DanGreat family law attorney. I consulted with Donna Santo regarding my complex family law case and was immediately impressed with her professionalism, knowledge and experience. Throughout my case I was given status updates and was able to pick up the phone and contact Donna. I never felt lost during the process. Donna was able to answer all of my questions and respond to all of my concerns. My ex wife went through several attorneys and even was self-represented for a while. Through all of this, Donna stayed the course, went to trial and we prevailed on all issues.
Because of Donna’s ability to understand real property laws, ours was in another country, complex income tax issues, self-employment and corporation income components, breach of fiduciary duty in my case, we were able to present our well-prepared case to the court.
Donna, through her vast experience, was able to give me my financial life back and has made it possible for me to plan for my future.
Needless to say I am pleased with the outcome in my case and highly recommend Donna, and her helpful staff, to anyone needing a professional Family Law attorney in Ventura County.
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“A final settlement in a reasonable amount of time at a price”
- David G.When I brought in this law firm to represent me in my divorce, my wife and her lawyer knew I had gained the ability to fight back if necessary. From that point on, negotiations could proceed. Peace through strength. Fortunately, no protracted or unnecessary fighting was necessary. Due to longstanding relationships, understandings, and trust between my team and my wife's team, deals were worked out on several fronts, avoiding crossing anyone's red lines and resulting in a final settlement in a reasonable amount of time at a price far below what either of us expected to pay.
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“I have the highest recommendations for this office”
- Chris L.Concern for my personal well being through the divorce process was present from our initial meeting. The process was thoroughly described and projections on the length of time to achieve the outcome made clear. The financial projection was painful but provided me time I needed to arrange my assets. I have the highest recommendations for this office.
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“5 stars is not enough.”
5 stars is not enough. Mr. Mehas and Ms. Santo are the A team of attorneys. They are comprehensive, strategic, one step ahead, and a powerful team! When you hire the Santo Mehas firm to manage your case, you have hired a team of legal advocates who care, who will keep you informed, who will fight for you, and be the voice you need to represent you. Without the help of the entire firm, I know that I would not have had the successful outcomes I have had. They took on an extremely difficult case and encountered issues that no one expected and few had ever seen. They worked tirelessly to make sure that the truth was told and presented it perfectly. They stood by every one of my requests and guided me through the entire lengthy process. Though there were challenges, they strategically and diligently with compassion met them head on and never faltered. Their expertise and thoroughness provided us the pathway we needed to rise to victory. I am proud to be a client and will continue to retain them for all legal matters that may arise as I know I am in the best hands.- Christy B. -
“You two are a true blessing”
Where do I begin? Donna Santo and Michael Mehas are a phenomenal team. From my initial phone call with Michael to my Victory with Donna. Everything from beginning to end was immaculate. I was handling my case on my own, and I gradually started to feel defeated and wanted to just give up, it was too much weight to carry. Then I was referred to SantoMehas PROFESSIONAL Law Corporation, and yes they are very professional. Mr. Mehas promised me they (he and Donna) would fight for me and they put up a big, huge fight ending in a victory. Donna picked up where I left off, when I was representing myself. I made a huge mess and Mrs. Santo cleaned it up effortlessly. She enters into the courtroom with confidence and knowledge. She indeed knows her stuff. I was unable to appear from time to time, so she represented me and called me right after the hearing to inform me of next steps and outcomes. I am happy with the outcome of my year-long custodial battle, of which was not looking good for me until Donna and Michael started representing me. I am truly grateful for them, without them, who knows how my life would have turned out, but with them it turned out exactly the way I wanted it. If you’re second guessing about having SantoMehas represent you, DON’T they’re literally there to fight for you, and the battle will not end until you win, thank you so much Michael Mehas and Donna Santo, you two are a true blessing.- Kwameisha T. -
“Exceptional Lawyer”
Attorney Michael Mehas was one of the most straight forward people I have ever met. He handled my cases immediately. He accomplished something for me and my family that three Los Angeles County divorce lawyers failed to do: He got child support from my ex husband within short periods of time. He guided me through the process with honest advice, and his legal fees were very reasonable, he's professional, and I have referred him to family members. Since then, Mr. Mehas has also handled several civil matters for me and is the only attorney I turn to when I need legal help. I’d hire him again, such a positive experience in the middle of a bad situation. Thank you, Michael Mehas, for all you've done for me and my family.- Jess
Cases We Handle
No matter how complex or contentious your situation is, we will clearly outline your options and develop a thorough strategy for achieving your objectives.
Unwavering Dedication to Our Clients
Our true focus and passion are, and will always be, our clients. We take a hands-on, proven approach to assisting our clients and always put them first. For us, client success and happiness are paramount and our commitment to this can be seen in all that we do here at SANTO MEHAS A Professional Law Corporation.
Do You Need to Go to Court for a Family Law Case?
Whether or not you need to go to court for a family law case depends on the specifics of your situation and the level of agreement between you and the other party. Not all family law cases require court appearances, and in many instances, disputes can be resolved through negotiation, mediation, or collaborative law without the need for a formal court hearing.
If both parties can agree on the key issues, such as child custody, support, and property division, the case can often be settled out of court. In these cases, the parties can work with their attorneys to draft a settlement agreement, which is then submitted to the court for approval. Once the judge reviews and approves the agreement, it becomes a legally binding court order without the need for a court appearance.
However, if the parties cannot reach an agreement, or if there are contested issues, a court appearance may be necessary. In such cases, the judge will hear evidence from both sides and make decisions on unresolved matters. A Ventura family law attorney can represent you in court, presenting your case effectively and advocating for your interests.
What Is Mediation, and How Does It Work in Family Law?
Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution that is commonly used in family law cases. It involves a neutral third-party mediator who helps the parties communicate and negotiate to reach a mutually agreeable resolution. Mediation is often used as an alternative to going to court and can be particularly beneficial in family law cases, where maintaining a cooperative relationship is important, especially when children are involved.
During mediation, both parties meet with the mediator to discuss the issues at hand, such as child custody, support, and property division. The mediator facilitates the conversation, helping the parties explore their options and find common ground. Unlike a judge, the mediator does not make decisions or impose solutions; instead, the goal is to help the parties reach a voluntary agreement.
Mediation can be faster, less expensive, and less adversarial than going to court. It allows the parties to have more control over the outcome and often leads to more amicable solutions. Additionally, mediation is confidential, which can be an advantage for those who prefer to keep their family matters private. If an agreement is reached through mediation, it can be submitted to the court for approval and become a legally binding order. However, if mediation is unsuccessful, the parties may still need to resolve their issues in court.
Contact Our Ventura Family Law Attorneys Today!
Conflict resolution and family restructuring are key parts of a family law case.
You can trust a family law attorney committed to these components. Your family’s wellbeing counts on it. With seven decades of experience helping families navigate their issues, you can rest assured that we will provide you with fair and compassionate representation. We are committed to helping families come to the best possible resolution in regard to child custody and alimony decisions during this difficult time in their lives. You and your children are in good hands with our Ventura family lawyers who care about the outcome of your case and the future of your family.
An Emphasis on Strong Family Values
Our firm places a strong emphasis on the importance of family values. The balance between maintaining these family values and generating a better future for you and your family is one we strive to achieve with each case. Our values consist of:
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Holistic Approach
We aim to resolve conflict so you and your family can move on peacefully. We approach all aspects of a case, including the emotional, financial, and mental components, and advocate with you throughout.
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Collaboration
Collaborative divorce can be a great option for spouses looking to share joint custody of their child/children and the court looks favorably on this decision. When possible, we strive to come to a resolution that will benefit both spouses.
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Children Come First
We respect the fact that our clients trust us with important life-decisions. We strive to be as understanding and empathetic as we can with you and treat you like we would treat a close family member.
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Compassionate Legal Services
We respect the fact that our clients trust us with important life-decisions. We strive to be as understanding and empathetic as we can with you and treat you like we would treat a close family member.
Guiding Clients through Family Law Matters
It can be very difficult to confront a legal challenge involving your family. Whether you’re dealing with divorce, child custody, child support, paternity, or all of the above, it helps to have dedicated legal support in your corner.
With SANTO MEHAS A Professional Law Corporation, you can gain the assurance that only a legal advocate like one of our family law attorneys in Ventura can provide. With many years of service to our clients comes the experience necessary to help people like you with creative and sophisticated legal solutions.
As we guide you through whatever it is you’re going through, you can feel confident about the process and hopeful for how things may resolve.
Reach out online or call us at (805) 222-7818 for a free 15-minute consultation to learn more about our family law services.
