Law Office of James Chau, P.C.

09/04/2026

Friday Thought
Divorce can make it feel like your entire life is changing at once.
It isn't.
Routines, relationships, goals, and parts of your life still belong to you. The legal process is one chapter, even when it feels like the whole story.
Give yourself permission to look beyond what is happening right now.

09/02/2026

Marriage and a registered domestic partnership can look similar in California, but they are not always treated the same way.
Those differences can matter when it comes to taxes, federal benefits, and what happens when a relationship ends.
If you're deciding between the two, it helps to know exactly what each one means legally.
Read more: https://www.jameschaulaw.com/post/domestic-partnership-vs-marriage-in-california-what-the-law-actually-says

California domestic partnerships and marriage are closer in legal substance than most people realize. Under state law, registered domestic partners have nearly all the same rights and obligations as married spouses. What most people miss is where the differences are, and those differences can be sig...

08/31/2026

Choosing a family law attorney is an important decision.
Reading about the experiences of past clients can provide valuable insight into the level of service, communication, and support you can expect.
Read what clients have to say: https://www.jameschaulaw.com/reviews

James Chau is the Principal and Founding Attorney of the Law Office James Chau, P.C since 2008.

08/28/2026

Helpful Tip Friday
Keep your child's routine as consistent as possible during a divorce.
Simple things like maintaining regular meal times, school schedules, and bedtime routines can provide children with a greater sense of stability during a time of change.
Small moments of consistency can make a big difference.
Learn more: https://www.jameschaulaw.com/child-custody

08/26/2026

The terms "void" and "voidable" have specific legal meanings when it comes to annulments.
Understanding the difference can help you determine whether an annulment may be an option in your situation.
https://www.jameschaulaw.com/post/who-qualifies-for-an-annulment-in-california-common-misconceptions-about-void-and-voidable-marriage

Most people who ask about annulment are not really asking about annulment. They are asking whether California law provides a way to undo a marriage that ended almost as quickly as it began, or one that turned out to be built on deception. The answer is sometimes yes, but the legal standard is narrow...

08/24/2026

When significant assets are involved, every detail matters.
Businesses, investments, retirement accounts, and real estate often require careful evaluation to help ensure a fair resolution.
https://www.jameschaulaw.com/high-asset-divorce

A divorce can be a very stressful time for anyone. Divorce can also become very complex when one or both spouses have a high net worth.

08/21/2026

Helpful Tip Friday
A good outcome is not always about "winning."
In many family law matters, the goal is finding a solution that protects your future, supports your family, and allows everyone to move forward with greater stability.
Keeping the focus on the long term can make today's decisions easier.
Learn more: https://www.jameschaulaw.com/divorce

08/19/2026

International travel can create unique custody issues for parents.
Before making travel plans, it is important to understand whether court orders, consent from the other parent, or additional documentation may be required.
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...

08/17/2026

Everyone deserves to feel safe.
California law provides legal protections for individuals experiencing domestic violence. Knowing your rights is an important step toward protecting yourself and your family.
https://www.jameschaulaw.com/domestic-violence

A domestic violence restraining order is a court order that helps protect people from abuse or threats of abuse from someone with whom they have a close relationship.

08/14/2026

Friday Fun Fact
Many family law cases are resolved through negotiation rather than a trial.
When both parties are able to work toward an agreement, they often gain more control over the outcome while reducing the time, expense, and stress of the legal process.