Law Office of Joel K. Straus

Experienced, skilled & thorough representation

This lawyer is licensed to practice in California and has no record of discipline from the California bar association.*

Firm Overview

The primary focus of my practice is on Family Law although I also represent individuals in criminal matters and practice criminal defense.

I have been a sole practitioner in San Mateo County since 1972.

Example cases

I regularly represent individuals involved in all aspects of Family Law matters. I deal with CLETS restraining order proceedings, child support cases, spousal cases, spousal support cases, child custody and visitation matters, property division issues, pension issues and general dissolution proceedings.

Main Office

Main
600 El Camino Real
Suite 102
San Bruno CA 94066

Phone

(650) 871-1323

Fax

(650) 871-5011

Websites

http://www.joelstrauslaw.com

Fees

Free Initial Consultation?

I do offer a free ½ hour consultation.

Services Offered For Fixed Fees?

Generally, the service for a family law proceeding are billed on an hourly basis as the amount of time needed cannot be predicted in advance. There is a deposit required for all legal services corresponding to the nature and complexity of the action.

Hourly Rates

My hourly rates vary according to the nature and complexity of the action. I have been practicing family law for over 35 years and my hourly rates reflect that level of experience.

Office Information

Office Hours

M-Th 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday 9:00 AM- 12:00 noon
and by appointment for other times

Office Manager

Carol

Emergency After Hours

Languages Spoken

None

How did your firm decide on the primary area of practice(s)?

I selected Family Law as my primary area of practice because it provides the opportunity to help people solve real life problems.

What is your firm's point of view regarding clients educating themselves on legal issues?

It is generally inadvisable and often dangerous to represent yourself in a dissolution proceeding. It is difficult to communicate your position to a judge in the limited amount of time available at a hearing. I am always willing to discuss the proceeding with a self representing client but rarely believe it advisable when issues of the magnitude of Family Law matters are at stake.

Is your firm willing to review documents prepared by clients?

I will, on a limited basis, review papers prepared by clients. I do not believe that it is wise for clients with no legal background to prepare legal papers for submission to a Court. Paperwork prepared by an attorney usually leads to a more favorable court result.

Is your firm willing to coach clients who want to represent themselves?

I will explain the proceeding to a client but not coach them. I do not believe that it is advisable for people to represent themselves in dissolution matters. Information can never be as accurately and adequately conveyed to a Judge as it can be by using a skilled and practiced advocate. Clients generally can gather information from other sources such as court facilitators.

Joel Straus

I have always had my own office in San Mateo County.

I have spent many hours serving as Judge Tempore in Family Law matters. That service has helped me understand the perspective of Judges and Court Officers and identify the arguments and presentations that most appeal to them.

My strengths lie in the fact that I have been practicing Family Law for over 35 years. I am familiar with Family Law systems and the best way to confront them to ensure a favorable result. I am good at listening to clients and helping them achieve their realistic goals.

Personal interests:

My personal interests are in travel, reading and spending time with my family.

License

Bar Number: 54649
California , 1972

Education

University of California, Hastings College of Law
Juris Doctor , 1972
San Francisco, CA

* Nolo has confirmed that every member attorney has a valid license and is in good standing with the state agency that licenses lawyers. Any past disbarments and suspensions (with possible exceptions for minor violations or nonpayment of dues, in our discretion) will be indicated accordingly in the badge. Member attorneys are required to notify Nolo immediately if they become the subject of any disciplinary action by any state licensing agency.