Bruce Somers
Bruce W. Somers
2544 Cleveland Ave
Suite 204
Santa Rosa, CA 95403
Map
Phone: (707) 544-2300 | Fax: (707) 544-2344
http://www.sonomafamilylaw.com
Sonoma County Family Law & Bankuptcy Representation
Legal Topic
Family Law
Preferred New Clients
The goal is to have you come out of the process in the best possible position. I protect you from the other side and from yourself. Court might be, but usually is not, the best place to solve problems.
Sub-Topics
Abuse
- Child Abuse
- Domestic Violence
Children
- Child Custody
- Child Support
- Children's Rights
- Paternity
- State Child Protection
- Visitation
Couples
- Civil Unions
- Domestic Partnerships
- Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transsexual, Transgender Rights
- Living Together/Cohabitation
- Marriage
Enforcement Actions
Mediation/Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
Restraining Orders
Rights
- Grandparent Rights
- Termination of Parental Rights
Legal Topic
Divorce
Preferred New Clients
The goal is to have you come out of the process in the best possible position. I protect you from the other side and from yourself. Court might be, but usually is not, the best place to solve problems.
Sub-Topics
Alimony/Palimony/Spousal Support
Annulment
Child Support
Collaborative Law
Custody/Visitation Rights
Delinquent Support Payments
Division of Property
Divorce Mediation
Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transsexual, Transgender (LGBT) Rights
Restraining Orders
Uncontested Divorce
Legal Topic
Bankruptcy
Preferred New Clients
The goal is to have you come out of the process in the best possible position. I protect you from the other side and from yourself. Court might be, but usually is not, the best place to solve problems.
Sub-Topics
Business Bankruptcy
Chapter 7
Collections & Repossessions
Creditor Harassment
Debt Relief
Foreclosure
Garnishments
Personal Bankruptcy
Bar Admissions
CA, Dec 1974
Bar Number: 60373
Specialty Certifications
Legal Specialist - Family Law (State Bar of California)
Other Court Admissions
All courts in California; 9th Circuit Federal
Association Memberships
California State Bar; Sonoma County Bar Association
Continuing Education
Always more than the required 12 units per year.
Example Cases
I do extensive work in custody cases as well as dissolutions from beginning to end.
Education
University of San Francisco
Juris Doctorate
San Francisco
CA
1974
University of San Francisco
Bachelor of Arts
San Francisco
CA
1970
Majored in Political Science
Number of Attorneys
1
State Licensed In
California
Firm Focus and History
I am self-employed and have been almost my entire career. My focus is strictly 100% Family Law.
Previous Employment Summary
I spent two years in the Army in JAG defending Courts Martial. Prior to me being a solo practitioner, I spent four years as an employee of a law firm.
Activities and Awards
None. I am a full time private practitioner.
What is your opinion regarding clients educating themselves on legal issues?
You know the facts of your case, and I know the law and the process. It is the unusual situation where a person can learn family law in an unemotional way when it relates to their own case. What the law books say and what actually happens in court can be very different beasts.
Are you willing to review documents prepared by clients?
Not a problem -- especially since clients know the facts of their lives.
Are you willing to coach clients who want to represent themselves?
No problem, but you get what you invest in the process. It will be better than nothing but not really enough help.
Why did you decide to be a lawyer?
I did not like blood or math. I am analytical and good at argument. I also find I actually help people.
What work experience and education helps you be a better lawyer?
30 years in practice as well as constant continuing education especially as to the emotional and psychological impacts in dissolutions.
Why did you decide on your primary area of practice?
It chose me. When I first began, family law is what happened to walk in the door. The more I did the more I remained in that area because it takes full time to keep up with the changes.
What do you like best about your career?
The best thing I like is feeling I actually help people.
Tell us about your law firm:
Zoe has been with me for about 4 to 5 years. It is a nice accent. We work as a team.
What are your strengths and style?
I am a bulldog. I grab a case and stick with it. I am very focused.
I remain unemotional about the case, which allows me to see how to help solve problems rather than just argue the issues.
Personal Interests:
I don't have any personal interests.
Office Manager/Assistant
Zoe
Fax
(707) 544-2344
Office Hours
Monday through Friday
8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Emergency After Hours
No
Foreign Languages
None
Fixed-Price Services and Fees
None
Hourly Rates
$250 plus costs
Free Initial Consultation?
None. The regular hourly rate charged.
Typical Retainer
$4,500.00
Nolo's Licensing Check
Attorneys have passed a licensing check. Nolo has confirmed that every member attorney has a valid license and is in good standing with the state agency that licenses lawyers upon joining the directory.
Directory lawyers are required to notify Nolo immediately if they become the subject of any disciplinary action by any state licensing agency.
Find us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter
Watch us on YouTube
Listen to us on iTunes
