Law Office of James Chau, P.C.

10/21/2026

Taking a lower-paying job may raise questions in a spousal support case.
The court can look at earning capacity as well as the paycheck you're receiving now.
A voluntary career change and an involuntary layoff can lead to different questions about whether support should change.
Read more:
https://www.jameschaulaw.com/post/modifying-spousal-support-in-silicon-valley-what-qualifies-as-a-material-change-in-circumstances

A tech layoff, RSU cliff, or career change can affect spousal support. Learn how California courts evaluate modification requests.

10/19/2026

Not every California divorce has to follow the traditional process.
Some couples may qualify for a summary dissolution, a simpler option available when specific requirements are met.
If you’re considering divorce and your situation is relatively straightforward, it’s worth finding out whether this option applies to you.
Learn more: https://www.jameschaulaw.com/summary-dissolution

10/16/2026

Before signing a divorce settlement, have an attorney explain the terms.
An agreement can sound fair while leaving questions about debts or future obligations.
Understand what you’re agreeing to while changes can still be discussed.
Call the Law Office of James Chau: 408-899-8364.

10/14/2026

An old job title doesn't prove what someone can earn today.
A vocational evaluation looks at current employment opportunities alongside a person's skills and work history.
That distinction can matter when a California divorce involves a spouse who has been out of the workforce for years.
Read more:
https://www.jameschaulaw.com/post/vocational-evaluations-in-california-divorce-what-happens-when-the-court-assesses-your-earning-capa

A vocational evaluation can determine how much a California court believes you are capable of earning. Here is what the examination involves and how it affects spousal support.

10/12/2026

Not every family law matter has to be decided in a courtroom.
Mediation can help people work toward practical solutions through respectful discussion, often saving time and reducing conflict along the way.
Learn more: https://www.jameschaulaw.com/mediation

Mediation is a type of alternative dispute resolution (ADR). Mediation can resolve the issues facing a couple going through a divorce without having to litigate. Mediation is often less expensive than traditional litigation and does not involve the use of the courts or judges except for the filing o...

10/09/2026

Write down your questions before your first divorce consultation.
It’s easy to forget what you wanted to ask once the conversation starts.
Bring the questions you need answered to understand your next steps.
Call the Law Office of James Chau: 408-899-8364.

10/07/2026

A tech layoff changes your income. It doesn't automatically change your support order.
In California, a substantial change in circumstances may support a request to modify spousal support.
The existing order and the reasons for the income change both matter when evaluating that request.
Read more:
https://www.jameschaulaw.com/post/modifying-spousal-support-in-silicon-valley-what-qualifies-as-a-material-change-in-circumstances

A tech layoff, RSU cliff, or career change can affect spousal support. Learn how California courts evaluate modification requests.

10/05/2026

Sometimes you need legal guidance, not full representation.
Limited scope services allow you to work with an attorney for specific parts of your case, giving you professional support where you need it most.
Learn more: https://www.jameschaulaw.com/limited-scope

Limited scope representation may be the right choice for you. Limited Scope is when you and a lawyer agree that will handle certain parts of your case, and you will be self-represented for the remaining.

10/02/2026

Friday Thought
You don’t have to solve everything at once.
Family law issues can bring a lot of questions with them, and it’s natural to want answers to all of them right away.
Focus on the decisions that need to be made now. The rest can be handled one step at a time.

09/30/2026

Taking your child on an international trip can involve a few extra steps when you share custody.
Before booking the flight, check your custody order and find out whether you need the other parent's consent or additional travel documents.
Sorting that out early can make the trip a lot less stressful.
Read more: https://www.jameschaulaw.com/post/taking-your-child-abroad-what-california-parents-need-to-know-about-international-travel-and-custod

For many families in the Bay Area, traveling internationally is not a luxury. It is how children stay connected to grandparents, extended family, and the cultures they come from. A trip to India, Mexico, Vietnam, the Philippines, China, or anywhere else a family has roots is part of ordinary life fo...