Business Details
Experienced Family Law Attorneys in San Jose, CA
The Law Offices Of Hales & Adames is a boutique-style family law firm with a legacy of excellence spanning decades. Founded in the 1960s by Nat E. Hales, Jr., our firm has evolved under the leadership of Michele Elizabeth Hales, maintaining a steadfast commitment to personalized legal representation. We specialize exclusively in family law, offering tailored solutions for divorce, child custody, spousal support, and complex property division. Our team, led by experienced attorney Michele Hales and supported by dedicated paralegal Julie Corini, serves clients across Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, and San Benito counties. With offices in San Jose and Hollister, we combine deep local knowledge with a client-centered approach to resolve sensitive legal matters.Our practice emphasizes integrity, respect, and strategic problem-solving, ensuring each client receives individualized attention. We offer flexible services, including mediation, alternative dispute resolution, and unbundled legal options, to meet diverse client needs. Our reputation for thorough preparation and compassionate advocacy has made us a trusted resource in Silicon Valley and South County communities. We carefully select clients to maintain our high standards of service, prioritizing meaningful outcomes over volume. For over 40 years, our firm has upheld a tradition of excellence, blending experience with innovative legal strategies to protect our clients' interests.
Services
Divorce/Dissolution
Child Custody
Spousal Support
Mediation
Property Division
Prenuptial Agreements
Domestic Violence Cases
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience in family law representation.
- Our boutique firm provides personalized attention to each client's unique case.
- We offer satellite offices in San Jose and Hollister for client convenience.
- Our team includes seasoned attorney Michele Elizabeth Hales and experienced paralegal Julie Corini.
- We specialize in both traditional litigation and alternative dispute resolution methods.
Services
Divorce/Dissolution
We guide clients through California's divorce process, including residency requirements, temporary restraining orders, and property division. Our attorneys protect client interests in asset distribution, debt allocation, and post-divorce modifications. We provide strategic representation for contested and uncontested dissolutions.
Child Custody
Our firm advocates for clients in child custody matters, addressing physical and legal custody arrangements. We help establish visitation schedules, relocation permissions, and modifications to existing orders. Our approach prioritizes children's well-being while protecting parental rights.
Mediation Services
We facilitate mediation sessions to help parties reach mutually acceptable agreements. Our neutral approach reduces conflict and costs compared to courtroom battles. Services include pre-trial mediation and post-judgment dispute resolution for family law matters.
Spousal Support
Our attorneys handle temporary and permanent spousal support cases, considering factors like marriage duration and financial disparities. We assist with support modifications due to changed circumstances and enforce court orders when necessary.
Property Division
We manage complex property division cases involving real estate, businesses, and retirement accounts. Our team ensures equitable distribution of community assets while protecting separate property interests. We provide valuation services for high-asset divorces.
People
Michele Elizabeth Hales
Owner
Attorney Michele Elizabeth Hales leads our firm with decades of family law experience. She focuses on personalized legal strategies for divorce, custody, and property division. Her practice emphasizes compassionate advocacy and practical solutions for clients in transition.
Nat E. Hales, Jr.
Retired Founder
Founding attorney Nat E. Hales, Jr. established our firm's legacy in the 1960s. His pioneering work in family law laid the foundation for our client-centered approach. Though retired, his influence continues through our firm's commitment to excellence.
Questions
What areas do you serve?
We serve Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, and San Benito counties, including San Jose, Hollister, and surrounding communities.
What family law services do you offer?
We handle divorce, child custody, spousal support, property division, prenuptial agreements, mediation, and alternative dispute resolution.
Do you offer free consultations?
We offer initial in-office or telephonic consultations to discuss your case and legal options.
Can I modify existing court orders?
Yes, we assist with modifying child custody, visitation, and support orders when circumstances change.
What is unbundled legal service?
Our limited-scope representation allows clients to handle specific case aspects independently while receiving attorney guidance on complex issues.
