Kathleen K Dong

Kathleen Dong

Dear Aryana, I am sorry you felt that way, and I apologize if I offended you. Each attorney has a different practice style, and I prefer to be honest with clients when I would be of no help. We discussed your requests in your recently filed motion, and I informed you that the outcome you sought may not be easy to obtain through litigation, as your request would take the case backward by reducing the other parent's timeshare without presenting reasons deemed valid under CA law. I personally do not feel it is fair for clients to simply assume that hiring an attorney would get them what they ask for. The court takes custody/visitation matters very delicately in a way where neither parent's rights are interfered with, unless there is clear proof that the other parent is abusing the children. In your case, you admitted that there was no abuse by the other spouse. I would also like to point out that, as an attorney providing a free consultation, I do not know whether a client will retain me. Regardless, I believe my duty is to help callers as much as possible understand where they are and whether their goal will be deemed reasonable in the eyes of the court. That was what I was trying to help you understand: CA law binds every litigant, and you must know it clearly. What I feel is unfortunate is your misunderstanding that my comment about your decision about the father of your children is not based on what I believe, but I told you that it would be the judge's perspective when you are trying to present negative traits of the other parent, especially when those traits are not something supported by CA law. I advised you multiple times that you need to understand the judge's perspective. Lastly, I agree with you wholeheartedly that coparenting is never easy. But one piece of good news is that you are not married to the other parent in this situation, so you do not have to worry about anything other than the children's issues. I am sorry you are going through these difficult times and wish you the best in your upcoming hearing. Thank you for taking the time to share your review. If there is anything my firm can do for you, please feel free to contact us. - Kathleen