The Los Angles Family Courts are one of equity. Divorce and family law trials are bench trials meaning that the trial does not take place in front of a jury, rather a judge makes all decisions in the matter. Ever since 2011 the courts have made evidentiary hearings or mini-trials on an issue mandatory, the court’s want to hear evidence, witness testimony and attorney argument before making a decision. Prior to 2011, declarations were used in place of party testimony and the court made decisions from reading the papers presented rather than hearing testimony. The family courts have also recently changed their master calendar in Los Angeles to provide more efficient hearings. The family courts in L.A. were so overworked with so many cases than in order to get a hearing date it would be months out. This left the parties and their attorneys frustrated as they wished to resolve the matter. Now, with a new system in place, the courts are setting dates a month out in downtown for the first hearing. Trials are also being placed much more quickly than before.
All courts in California must abide by the same procedures; the California Code of Civil Procedure. Every judge is different though, with a different background, different style and temperament. Some are entirely new to family law and rely on the attorneys to educate them on the issues. It is important to know the judge, know their background and get a feel for their styel and how they rule. The Atighechi Law Group has experience in all courts in Los Angeles and is familiar with the judges in the court. Please contact Maryam Atighechi to speak with an experienced family law and divorce lawyer located in Beverly Hills serving all of Los Angeles including Sherman Oaks, Encino, Van Nuys, Ventura, Santa Monica and surrounding areas.