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Patricia Berkowitz
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Patricia Berkowitz
Law Offices of Patricia Berkowitz
1981 N. Broadway
Suite 340
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Phone: (925) 952-4360 | Fax: (925) 952-4357
http://www.supportchildlaw.com
29 Yrs of Family Law Experience, Specialist since 1987
Legal Topic
Family Law
Preferred New Clients
I have no preference.
Sub-Categories
Family Law
- Restraining Orders
- Child Abuse
- Domestic Violence
- Adoptions
- Child Support
- Custody
- Paternity
- Visitation
Legal Topic
Divorce
Preferred New Clients
I have no preference.
Sub-Categories
Divorce
- Alimony/Palimony/Spousal Support
- Annulment
Bar Admissions
CA, Jun 1977
Bar Number: 74139
Specialty Certifications
Certified Specialist, Family Law, The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization
Other Court Admissions
All California State Courts; United States Federal Court, Northern District of California; Supreme Court of the State of California; All California Appellate Courts; All California Superior Courts
Association Memberships
California State Bar Association; Contra Costa County Bar Association; American Bar Association
Continuing Education
As a Certified Specialist it is a requirement to participate in continuing education. In addition, I attend seminars every year to stay current on case law and statues. I also teach seminars when asked to do so by various organizations.
Example Cases
In one published case, a father owed back child support for his children. He was taking money from a union trust and I went after the trust for the payment of back child support. I won and the union appealed and we won in the appellate court. The ruling was that a parent could go after the trust when the money that was owed was for back child support.
Education
Degree:
J.D.
School:
John F. Kennedy University
City:
Pleasant Hill
State:
CA
Year:
1976
Degree:
Bachelor of Science
School:
California State Polytechnic University
City:
Pomona
State:
CA
Year:
1968
Focus and Accomplishments:
Major: Math
Number of Attorneys
1
State Licensed In
California
Firm Focus and History
I established my firm in 1977. Our firm handles legal matters in the following practice areas: Family Law, Divorce, Child Custody, Child Support, Collections (child support, spousal support, and enforcement of property settlements), and Pensions. I do appellate work as it relates to family law. In addition, I handle cases involving the Department of Child Support Services.
Previous Employment Summary
I have been self-employed since 1977.
Activities and Awards
I do volunteer work for the Contra Costa County Bar Association and I teach classes for Pro Pers with the CCBA.
What is your opinion regarding clients educating themselves on legal issues?
I think it is a good idea for clients to educate themselves on legal issues because even if a client hires an attorney, they know what is coming ahead and often what to expect.
Are you willing to review documents prepared by clients?
No, I am not willing to do that at all.
Are you willing to coach clients who want to represent themselves?
No, I am not willing to coach clients who want to represent themselves.
Why did you decide to be a lawyer?
I once picked up a hitchhiker who was a female law student at Columbia Law School. At the time, I was a high school math teacher and was not really enjoying my career. We drove for several hours together and we had a long conversation about careers. I told her I was not enjoying math and she told me to try law school.
What work experience and education helps you be a better lawyer?
Things that have improved me as a lawyer are learning to be kind and compassionate, the ability to listen and hear a different point of view, not thinking that I am always right, and my ability to have clients listen to the other side. I do not think it is anything that education gives you; it is life experience that makes you a better lawyer.
Why did you decide on your primary area of practice?
I decided on my primary specialty because I love family law. In law school, one of my professors who taught family law and was a family law practitioner, was impressed with my work. He told me that if I ever wanted to go into family law that he would rent space to me. When I first started out, that's what I did!
What do you like best about your career?
What I like best about my career is that I can help people.
Tell us about your law firm:
I have two legal assistants, Janice Berry and Rebecca Tuck. They are very dedicated and they love their jobs. I could not do the work I do without them.
What are your strengths and style?
My strength is that I am a specialist and family law is all I do. I understand the law and I have many years of experience. I constantly continue to learn.
I walk softly and carry a big stick.
Personal Interests:
My personal interests include reading, walking, and spending time with my family and friends. When I am on vacation I like to travel. I also do volunteer hospice work on the weekends.
Office Manager/Assistant
Janice Berry
Fax
(925) 952-4357
Office Hours
Monday through Friday
9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Additional hours available upon request.
Emergency After Hours
Yes
Foreign Languages
French, Creole
Fixed-Price Services and Fees
Flat fees may be available depending on the client's situation.
Hourly Rates
$375
Free Initial Consultation?
No, the fee for an initial consultation is $100; there is no time limit for the initial consultation.
Typical Retainer
All collection work is done on a contingency basis. Retainers vary depending on the case.
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 applicable bar associations upon joining the directory.
Directory lawyers are required to notify Nolo immediately if they become the subject of any disciplinary action by any bar association.
