(continued from previous column...)

about tristan tegroen

I was admitted to the California Bar in 1996. From the onset I practiced family law as a solo practitioner in Westlake Village. I moved to this office in Thousand Oaks (Newbury Park) in 2005.

I understand the angst and emptiness that a divorce and looming custody issues bring (been there, done that :( ) and I understand what my clients need.

free consultations

New clients are entitled to a free initial consultation with me. This consultation may be by telephone, but is usually held face to face at our office.

payment options

We accept Visa, Mastercard and American Express credit cards. Virtually every family lawyer asks for an advance, commonly (and incorrectly) called a 'retainer.'

procedural options

You have alternatives to litigation and may save fees and costs by pursuing uncontested options other than litigation. Lawyers are also able to provide 'limited scope' services, which may benefit clients in the current economy. A lawyer can appear for you on one or more days or work only on one issue and not the other. The law provides for flexibility than ever with those with a limited budget. For example, I have filed a 'Notice of Limited Scope' and appeared for a client on strategic court dates, or worked only on retirement plan division. A client with no house or retirement assets, may feel comfortable negotiating his or her own property settlement but uncomfortable attempting to resolve custody issues, especially if the other parent insists that their time be supervised or because of history or domestic violence or substance abuse. The Notice is creative and allows for unlmited number of options.

competitive rates

Our rates are affordable. Please call our office for our hourly rates and advance payment requirements.

interview with tristan tegroen

q: Why do you practice the fields of law that you have chosen.

a: I grew up as a child of divorced parents, and family law issues were always part of my life. I can relate to the emotions and needs of my clients because I went through a divorce as a child and my own marriage failed after sixteen years. I have come to realize that relationships and the ties that result are the most meaningful events in our lives.

q: Does having children of your own influence your work?

a: Sure. Emotionally I cannot sit on the fence with respect to children and a spouse. A relationship with a child begins when the child is born. I understand this when I develop a matter for our client. Time a parent loses with his or her children, can never be replaced. Sadly, I have also been through a divorce and experienced first hand the emotions and needs of a divorcing person. I am proud to have my own children on a week-on/week-off (50/50) schedule (love you guys!). Also, the financial decisions made when divorcing form the foundation of your financial make-up to follow.

q: What distinguishes your practice?

a: I endeavor to serve my clients and to involve them personally in their case. I like to find solutions to cases, not add to the already complex and emotional issues a client already faces--if I make the water more muddy, I am not doing my job. During a crisis, a client needs a problem-solver, not problem-maker.

communication and advertisement

This site is a communication in terms of Rule of Professional Conduct 1-400. The information in this family law site is not meant to constitute legal advice, and nothing in this site constitutes a guarantee, warranty or prediction regarding the outcome of any legal matter. Advertising in this site is limited to California. All photos and graphics are for artistic purposes only, and none of the images are those of staff or clients unless otherwise stated.

choosing a lawyer (the world according to tristan...)

Clients often ask me what they should look for in choosing an attorney.

My suggestions are usually to choose someone that a client can work with. A family law matter may last for several months, or longer, and in some cases, for several years. You should be able to work effectively with an attorney for that period of time.

An attorney serves many purposes in a case, and at least, should advise and counsel a client. If the client feels too intimidated to ask the attorney questions, a client might not be getting the maximum benefit from the attorney-client relationship.

Lawyers that come recommended stand out above others. At times in your life you may have worked with an attorney, on a trust, will, injury or other matter. Most attorneys know other attorneys, and are familiar with their standard of work.

Counties typically have a bar association, which maintains a LRS, or lawyer referral service. This is a service that provides referrals at a small cost to local attorneys. The service may be able to provide a client with information about the attorney, or make a referral based on the needs of the client.

It is important that an attorney be ethical, and maintains high standards of conduct in the governing of his or her practice. The attorney should also possess the competence and skill required for representation of the client.

Many clients look for aggressive attorneys thinking that this attorney will champion their cause. In my mind wisdom is more important. An attorney who fights a losing battle, aggressively, is only going to lose the most important asset in court--credibility.