We do not require a retainer. Fortunately, when the Pandemic hit us in March 2020, we had already been a paperless office for many years with two cloud based case management systems. However, the Pandemic propelled us to make many improvements to our client service protocols, retainer requirements, direct calendaring, electronic exchanges and remote systems being some examples. This has allowed our firm to concentrate more on client service and less on wasteful antiquated management systems. If you entrust us with your family law matter, you'll be in excellent hands.

When It’s Over,
It’s Time To Move On

Take the first step toward your new life.
Talk to our Family Law Attorney serving Alameda County, Castro Valley, San Francisco & Modesto today.

When It’s Over,
It’s Time To Move On

Take the first step toward your new life.
Talk to our Family Law Attorney serving Alameda County, Castro Valley, San Francisco & Modesto today.

Practice Areas

Mediation

Mediation offers a more private and collaborative way to resolve family law disputes. It can be a cost-effective option that allows both parties to work toward practical solutions without going to court. We serve as neutral mediators or represent clients through the mediation process to help reach lasting agreements. Read More

Divorce

Divorce involves more than just ending a marriage. It affects finances, living arrangements, and family dynamics. We work closely with our clients to manage each step of the process, from filing to final agreements. Our approach is focused on providing clear legal direction and protecting what matters most to you. Read More

Child Custody

Custody decisions can impact your child’s day-to-day life and long-term well-being. We help parents develop parenting plans that reflect their goals and meet the court’s standards. When disputes arise, we’re ready to advocate for fair arrangements that support your child’s best interests. Read More

Child Support

Every child deserves financial stability. Whether you’re requesting support or responding to a claim, we help determine fair amounts based on current guidelines and financial circumstances. We also assist with modifications and enforcement when existing orders no longer work. Read More

High-Asset Divorce

Dividing substantial assets during a divorce requires careful legal strategy and a strong understanding of financial matters. We work with clients who have business interests, investments, multiple properties, and other high-value assets. Read More

Family Law

Family law covers a wide range of issues that affect daily life, from separation and parenting decisions to financial support and legal agreements. We provide practical advice and dependable representation across all areas of family legal matters, always focused on protecting your interests and your future. Read More

Spousal Support

Financial support may be part of the outcome when a marriage ends. We represent clients on both sides of alimony matters, helping them understand what is reasonable based on factors such as income, length of marriage, and other obligations. Our goals is to reach terms that are practical and fair. Read More

Legal Separation

Legal separation allows couples to formalize living arrangements, divide assets, and establish custody or support terms without ending the marriage. We help clients put clear agreements into place so they can protect their rights and make informed decisions about the future while remaining legally married. Read More

Contested Divorce

When spouses cannot agree on key issues such as property division, custody, or support, a contested divorce may be necessary. We represent clients through each stage of the process, from initial filings to court hearings, and work to build a strong case focused on protecting your interests and reaching a fair outcome. Read More
Family Law Attorney In Alameda County, Castro Valley, San Francisco, Modesto California

Family Law Attorney In Alameda County, Castro Valley, San Francisco, Modesto California

Supporting Individuals Through Tough Family Situations
At AttorneyBernie.Com, we help people find relief from the stress of family law matters, through effective and caring legal representation. Whether you are facing a divorce or child custody case, need help with child support, or need to establish legal paternity for your child, contact our family law attorneys. We’re here to take the stress off your shoulders and guide you to a successful resolution.

Supporting the Bay Area and surrounding.

A Full Range Of Family Law Services

With offices in multiple cities in northern California, we
represent family law clients in communities throughout San
Joaquin, Stanislaus, Contra Costa, Alameda, Santa Clara and
Riverside Counties.

We provide the entire range of family law services,
including:

  • Divorce, annulment, legal separation, and property
    division
  • Spousal support (“alimony”)
  • Parenting time (“child custody and support”)
  • Establishing legal paternity
  • Modification of court orders for support, custody, or
    visitation
  • Step-parent adoption
  • Guardianships
  • Domestic violence and protection orders
  • QDROs (“Qualified Domestic Relations Order”)
  • MPDOs (“Military Pension Division Order”)
  • Same Sex Dissolution

Board-Certified Guidance

Our firm is led by Bernie Kempen, a family law specialist certified by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization. We also maintain a team of legal and professionals ready to take prompt action on your case. We respond to all inquiries within 24 hours and are also capable of quick response in cases of emergency, such as situations involving domestic violence.

Testimonials

Honest & ethical attorney

I worked in the legal field for over 10 years and it is rare to find such an honest and ethical attorney like Bernie Kempen. He did an outstanding job for me regarding custody and support.
– Anonymous

Grateful mother

Bernie and his staff are A+! They always answered any questions I had, if not that day then that week. I was so thankful when Bernie sat next to me at the mediation and helped me to reveal other important info that I was not thinking of at the time because I was so nerves from the situation. Bernie was also alert when we were In front of the judge and pointed out things I didn’t even think of. His staff was very patient with me as well, even when I wanted them to change things they already worked on. I have gotten the outcome I was looking for with Bernie that I haven’t been on my own. I wish that I could always have Bernie by my side to help with my son’s situation, because he makes a big difference. I am truly thankful for him and his staff. From a mother that needed help when she doesn’t have any but from Bernie.
-Tara

FAQ

When it comes to the safety and well-being of your children, you want to ensure that they are taken care of. Divorce can make this messy, but not impossible. Child custody arrangements are complicated and you may be dealing with a manipulative partner, a partner who lives in a different state, or one who believes that they can provide the best home for your kids. When you work with our seasoned firm, we can keep your children’s best interests at the front of this case to ensure that any decision is for their benefit. This means working to provide solid evidence on your behalf for the safety and comfort of your kids.

This firm takes great pride in helping families with child support cases. If you attempt to work through a child support plan without the help of Bernie Kempen, you may quickly find that the tables are turning on you. It is crucial to work with a lawyer you can trust to show valid reasons that your ex-partner needs to pay child support. On the other hand, if you are being asked for an unfair amount of child support, you will want to have evidence to challenge this so that you can afford to take care of your children and other living expenses.

Absolutely. In California, you may be wondering how to end your marriage, whether it is through an annulment, separation, or divorce. For example, you may have a religious reason for getting an annulment, essentially saying that you were never married in the first place. You may also have your reasons for a legal separation–wishing to stay together for your children–and do not want to get a divorce. Finally, you may be in a situation where divorce truly is the best option for you and you wish to end your marriage. When you work with Kempen & Company, we will make sure that you pursue the option that is best for you.

When your relationship is ending and you have unique assets–cryptocurrency, RSUs, or even non-standard types of income–you want to protect those so that you can hold onto them after the divorce. You want to know that you are protecting assets you have worked hard for and that your ex-spouse will not take them away. Know that you can count on this office to look out for your best interests and work hard to protect your unique assets.

Talk To Us

We look forward to providing you with thorough, tenacious, and skilled legal representation for any California family law matter. Reach out today at AttorneyBernie.Com or via email to schedule a consultation on your case.
We are available 24 hours a day for crisis situations or domestic violence.

Our Blogs

How To Craft A Parenting Plan That Works

How To Craft A Parenting Plan That Works

Divorce or separation is never easy, especially when children are involved. A well-structured parenting plan helps both parents set clear...
Read More
An understanding of life and biology with Dr. Howard

An understanding of life and biology with Dr. Howard

Listen Now! Attorney Bernie and Dr. Howard take a moment to reflect on life. In this podcast Dr. Howard explains...
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How Auto Accidents Can Impact Child Custody Arrangements

How Auto Accidents Can Impact Child Custody Arrangements

Auto accidents are unexpected and life-altering events that can have a far-reaching impact, not only on your physical health but...
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San Francisco

1 Sansome Street
Suite 3500
San Francisco, CA 94104

(415) 688-2400

Modesto

1301 G Street
Suite A
Modesto, CA 95354

(415) 688-2400