As we step into the new year, our hearts go out to all those affected by the devastating fires in Southern California and the challenges of these turbulent times. While we acknowledge the weight of these events, we also find hope in the opportunity to support one another, rebuild, and move forward together with resilience and compassion. Here's our January in review:

Kristi Freas, Lead Paralegal

We are delighted to announce the ascension of Kristi Freas to the role of Lead Paralegal at Hoover Krepelka, LLP.

Our team warmly embraced Kristi’s return in 2024 as a Senior Paralegal, remembering her as a Legal Assistant at HK in 2016. With over 20 years of impressive legal experience, including a decade of dedicated service in family law, Kristi’s expertise and dedication have already made a significant impact.

Kristi’s exceptional knowledge, collaborative spirit, and unwavering commitment to excellence have enriched both our team and the client experience. In her new role as Lead Paralegal, she will continue to guide and inspire our team while upholding the highest standards of service.

Please join us in celebrating Kristi’s well-earned ascension and in expressing gratitude for her invaluable contributions to our firm’s ongoing success. We are proud to have her leadership as we move forward together.

Andrew Holt, Legal Assistant

We are excited to welcome Legal Assistant, Andrew Holt, to Hoover Krepelka, LLP! Andrew is a University of Oregon alumnus, earning a BA in Political Science with a minor in Business. His professional background includes valuable experience at Crystal Springs Golf Course in Burlingame, CA, where he also served on the Board of Directors and volunteered with Youth Golf through the PGA TOUR Junior League.

Andrew brings additional legal experience to our team, having worked as a Law Clerk, and is passionate about giving back to the community. He previously volunteered with FOOD For Lane County, supporting food and clothing donation efforts to help those in need.

Outside of work, Andrew is a dedicated sports fanatic who enjoys keeping up with both professional and college teams. He also has a passion for exploring historical landmarks around the Bay Area, including old bars, military installations, and sites that have shaped the region’s rich history.

We’re confident Andrew’s unique combination of experience, dedication, and diverse interests will make him a fantastic addition to our team. Please join us in giving him a warm welcome!

Click below to read our latest articles, including the topics of

"How Courts Handle High-Conflict Custody Disputes When a Child Has Severe Mental Health Issues," "When Child Support Isn't Enough: Addressing Disputes Over Mental Health Treatment Costs in Custody Cases," "How a Child's Mental Health Affects Custody Decisions: Ensuring the Best Care," "Why Do You Need a Nonmarital Cohabitation Agreement?," and "In-Person vs. Remote Appearances Under New 2025 Rules in Santa Clara County"

High-conflict divorces are especially challenging when custody disputes involve a child with serious mental health issues, as the legal process can risk exacerbating the child’s condition. In California, custody decisions prioritize the child’s best interests, focusing on each parent’s ability to provide stability and support. Courts rely on assessments by mental health professionals to evaluate the parents’ suitability and determine custody arrangements. An experienced family law attorney is essential to navigating these complex cases and ensuring the court has the necessary information to make an informed decision.

Read 'How Courts Handle High-Conflict Custody Disputes When a Child Has Severe Mental Health Issues' Article

Parents of children with special needs often face high costs for therapy, even with insurance. California law requires both parents to share reasonable uninsured healthcare costs as part of child support. Disputes may arise when one parent refuses to pay, leaving the other to seek court enforcement and provide proof of the treatment's necessity. To ensure reimbursement, parents should maintain detailed records, including diagnoses, treatment plans, and payment documentation. Courts can enforce payment and may award legal fees if costs were unjustly withheld. In some cases, this obligation extends beyond age 18 for children with lifelong disabilities.

Read 'When Child Support Isn’t Enough: Addressing Disputes Over Mental Health Treatment Costs in Custody Cases' Article

When parents divorce in California, child custody decisions prioritize the child’s best interests, particularly when mental health issues are involved. The court evaluates each parent’s ability to provide a stable environment and meet the child’s emotional and therapeutic needs. Factors such as access to mental health care, willingness to collaborate with professionals, and geographical accessibility to treatment play crucial roles in custody arrangements. Disorders like anxiety, depression, or PTSD require thoughtful consideration of their severity and impact on the child’s well-being, with professional evaluations often guiding decisions in contentious cases.

Read 'How a Child's Mental Health Affects Custody Decisions: Ensuring the Best Care' Article the Holiday' Article

In this article, Senior Associate Stephanie Huang highlights the increasing number of adults living with non-spouse romantic partners amidst the housing crisis, particularly in high-cost regions like the Bay Area. She emphasizes the importance of establishing a nonmarital cohabitation agreement to protect financial and property interests, given that California does not recognize common-law marriages. These agreements address asset ownership, property distribution, financial responsibilities, debt payment, healthcare decisions, and arrangements for minor children. Stephanie also underscores the need for clear, enforceable terms and warns against vulnerabilities such as invalid provisions or the absence of severability clauses, which could jeopardize the entire agreement.

Read 'Why Do You Need a Nonmarital Cohabitation Agreement?' Article

The 2025 family court rule updates in Santa Clara County introduce remote appearance options for hearings, offering parties the convenience of attending via Zoom under specific conditions. In-person attendance remains the default, requiring a formal request for remote appearances. Each option has distinct advantages: in-person hearings allow for direct interaction and better non-verbal communication, while remote appearances provide convenience and safety, particularly in sensitive cases like domestic violence. However, challenges such as travel costs for in-person hearings and potential technical issues for remote appearances highlight the need for experienced family law attorneys who can navigate these complexities effectively, ensuring optimal case outcomes.

Read 'In-Person vs. Remote Appearances Under New 2025 Rules in Santa Clara County' Article

Symphony San Jose's 'The Firebird' Concert

On Saturday, January 25th our employees and friends enjoyed an unforgettable evening at Symphony San Jose under the direction of Argentinian conductor Carlos Vieu. Highlights included Wagner’s dramatic "Tannhäuser Overture," Brahms’ intricate "Variations on a Theme by Haydn," and Sibelius’ stirring "Finlandia," alongside Sonia Possetti’s vibrant "Bullanguera." The concert concluded with Stravinsky’s spellbinding "The Firebird Suite," leaving the audience inspired by the power of music to tell stories and evoke emotion.

HK is a proud supporter of Symphony San Jose. We hope to see you at the March 8th production of Beethoven's Eroica.

Click here for tickets.

Constance Carpenter

Kelly Wynne

Jess Smith, Esq.

Robert Massey

Beck Engwerda (Muir)

Jacquie Meyers

Los Angeles Fires

Our hearts go out to Los Angeles and the victims who lost their homes and livelihood. The devastating fires have left countless families displaced and communities in need of urgent assistance. For those of us watching from afar, it’s natural to feel at arm’s length when we’re not in the immediate vicinity of the devastation. However, distance doesn’t diminish our ability to make an impact. Here is a comprehensive list of resources (Link to Resources) offering aid, including shelter, supplies, and ways to donate. Even small contributions, whether in time, funds, or spreading awareness, can bring comfort and relief.

During this challenging time, it is vital to come together and provide support to those affected. May we also remember to reach out to our loved ones in surrounding areas to check on their safety and offer support where possible. A simple call or message can provide much-needed reassurance during uncertain times. Extending grace to one another can go a long way in fostering empathy and solidarity.

Link to Resources

Karen Sparks

We are extending a mention our trusted advisor, Karen Sparks, CDFA whose family was affected by the fires. If you're inclined to read their story and possibly support, you can do so here:

Stand with Rory - Help After Unthinkable Loss

Humane Society Silicon Valley

On December 16, a fire severely damaged 50% of Humane Society Silicon Valley’s (HSSV) facility, including its medical center and holding areas. Thankfully, all people and animals were safely evacuated, and operations quickly resumed with the help of foster volunteers and their mobile Wellness Waggin’. The community’s overwhelming support included donations of supplies, gifts from HSSV’s Amazon wish list, and critical monetary contributions.

Recovery will take 9-12 months, affecting programs like Regional Rescue, which transferred 3,600 animals last year. Despite challenges, HSSV remains committed to saving lives and supporting pets and families in need. They encourage support through donations, adoptions, and events like The Fur Ball Gala on May 10, as they rebuild and strive to return stronger than ever. Thefurball.org has more details on how to participate.

We look forward to sharing our firm updates every month.

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