|
Our December season unfolds -
a time for reflection, celebration, and togetherness.
Take a look at our latest work:
|
| Lee Hoffman, Senior Associate Attorney | | |
Lee Hoffman is a United States Marine Corps veteran, former nurse, and dedicated attorney focused on criminal defense and family law. He has practiced since 2016, shifting his primary focus to criminal defense in 2019 while continuing to represent family law clients.
He admitted to all four federal district courts in California and received the 2017 Lady Justice Award from the Pro Bono Project of Silicon Valley for his pro bono advocacy on behalf of domestic-violence survivors. He brings litigation experience, including resolving an excessive-force matter involving the City of San Jose and the use of a police K-9.
Outside the office, he is a husband, father, bonsai collector, and outdoorsman who enjoys fishing, camping, and occasionally prospecting for gold in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
| | Caitlyn Perrodin, Legal Assistant | | |
Caitlyn Perrodin brings several years of experience supporting attorneys across California in family law and civil matters, working in multiple law offices.
Her experience working with high-needs special education students has also strengthened her patience, empathy, and clear communication—skills that enhance her work with clients navigating challenging legal situations.
She is passionate about learning, history, and detail-oriented research. Outside of work, she enjoys photography as a creative outlet and values her family as the foundation for all she pursues.
| | | |
As the year comes to a close, the holiday season offers an opportunity to slow down and appreciate the moments that bring us together. We hope this time allows you to recharge, connect with loved ones, and enjoy the spirit of the season.
Please note that our office will be closed on December 31 and January 1, and will reopen on the next business day. On behalf of everyone at HK, we wish you a happy and peaceful holiday season!
|
|
Click below to read our latest articles:
"When Divorce Stops a Planned Move away or Relocation,"
"International Divorce in California What Happen When You're a Foreign National with Property Abroad," and
"What To Do If You Suspect Infidelity and Have Questions About Paternity During Divorce"
| | |
California move-away cases are challenging because the state prioritizes keeping children in frequent contact with both parents. Even if a relocation was planned before divorce, a parent cannot move a child without consent or a court order, and temporary restraining orders prevent relocating children once divorce begins. Courts evaluate requests based on the child’s best interests, focusing on stability, continuity, and the ability to maintain a relationship with the other parent, while weighing benefits like job opportunities or family support. Because these cases are complex and fact-specific, working with an experienced family law attorney is crucial to pursue a relocation successfully.
Read 'When Divorce Stops a Planned Move away or Relocation' Article' Article
| | |
As careers and investments increasingly span borders, divorcing couples in California often face added complexity when marital assets are located abroad. While California’s community property laws generally treat assets acquired during marriage as equally owned, regardless of where they are located, foreign jurisdictions may apply different rules or decline to enforce California court orders. International divorces can also involve challenges related to jurisdiction, asset disclosure, valuation of foreign real estate or businesses, equity compensation, tax consequences, and cross-border enforcement. Successfully navigating these cases requires a strategic understanding of both California family law and the legal and practical hurdles involved in dividing and protecting international assets.
Read 'International Divorce in California What Happen When You're a Foreign National with Property Abroad' Article
| |
California is a no-fault divorce state, meaning infidelity alone typically does not affect property division, support, or custody, but it can significantly complicate cases when questions of paternity arise. When a child is conceived or born around the time of an affair, spouses may face difficult legal and emotional issues involving biological versus legal parentage. California law presumes a married spouse is the legal parent, and DNA testing during divorce does not automatically change parental rights or obligations. With strict timelines, nuanced statutes, and high emotional stakes, navigating paternity disputes related to infidelity requires experienced legal guidance to protect both parental rights and the best interests of the child.
Read 'What to Do If You Suspect Infidelity and Have Questions About Paternity During Divorce' Article
| | Annual Firm Holiday Celebration | |
The firm hosted our annual holiday celebration at Boulder Ridge Golf Club, an evening filled with warmth and holiday spirit as colleagues gathered to enjoy thoughtful remarks during our Secret Santa exchanges and to formally recognize and celebrate our newest team members.
It was a memorable occasion marked by camaraderie and gratitude, as we looked ahead with optimism and excitement for the opportunities the new year will bring.
|
| Symphony San Jose’s Holiday Spectacular | |
Symphony San Jose’s Holiday Spectacular lit up the California Theatre with a joyful celebration of the season, led by conductor Elena Sharkova and featuring the Symphony San Jose Chorale, Cantabile Youth Singers of Silicon Valley, and New Ballet.
Guests were also invited to enjoy festive pre-concert activities, from meeting Santa and Mrs. Claus to decorating gingerbread cookies, adding an extra layer of holiday magic to the community gathering. In a particularly fun moment,
Partner James Hoover stepped onto the podium to conduct, much to the delight of the audience.
With dazzling performances, cherished carols, and a spirit of togetherness, the concert offered a perfect kickoff to the holiday season for families across Silicon Valley.
Learn more about Symphony San Jose
| |
The Women Lawyer’s Section of the Santa Clara County Bar Association hosted a warm and festive holiday cocktail gathering at Berliner Cohen, LLP, bringing together attorneys, colleagues, and supporters to celebrate the season. Firm members Constance Carpenter and Aryanna Gregoire were in attendance supporting the wonderful cause.
Attendees generously donated items for the event’s silent auction. All proceeds from the auction supported Philanthropic Ventures Foundation, with funds dedicated to assisting Afghan Women Judges.
It was a wonderful night of community, connection, and giving back—an inspiring way to close out the year.
Learn more about Santa Clara County Bar Association
| | Boys and Girls Club Youth of the Year Gala | |
On January 30th, Boys & Girls Club of Silicon Valley is hosting their annual Youth of the Year Gala. Enjoy an evening filled with youth-led activities, live and silent auctions, gourmet dining and cocktails, and inspiring stories from their teen finalists as they name one the overall Youth of the Year.
Learn more about Boys and Girls Club's Youth of the Year Gala
| | |
We are proud to shine this month’s Community Spotlight on Partner Julia P. McDowell, whose passion for service extends far beyond the legal profession. Julia is the founder of Demonstrate Love, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering communities in Malawi, one of the world’s most impoverished nations. She demonstrates love as a purpose-driven change maker.
Through Demonstrate Love, Julia and her team work hand in hand with local leaders to meet basic needs and foster sustainable change. Their initiatives focus on providing clean water, access to healthcare, nutrition support, and education for children who would otherwise go without.
Malawi, often referred to as “the Warm Heart of Africa,” is a country of extraordinary spirit and resilience. Despite its beauty and rich cultural heritage, many Malawians face severe challenges: limited infrastructure, high rates of child malnutrition, and widespread poverty. Demonstrate Love responds with compassion in action—helping build wells, supporting orphan care, and investing in small-scale economic development projects that uplift entire villages.
Learn more or get involved
| | |
We look forward to sharing our firm updates every month.
Stay connected with us on social media:
| |
If you have had a positive experience with our firm, please consider leaving us a Google review.
| |
Join our community by subscribing to our
monthly newsletters here.
| | | | |
