Ann M. Oakleaf, Family Law

- 555 E Ocean Blvd #430, Long Beach, CA 90802

Introduction / Overview

Navigating family law issues, such as divorce, child custody, and support matters, can be one of the most emotionally and legally complex periods in a person's life. For residents of Long Beach and the surrounding areas in California, finding an attorney who is not only professionally competent but also genuinely compassionate is essential. Ann M. Oakleaf, Family Law is a practice dedicated to providing high-quality legal representation with a focus on these sensitive areas. Located in the heart of Long Beach, this firm understands that family law cases are not just legal challenges; they are deeply personal matters with long-lasting consequences for everyone involved. As a Certified Family Law Specialist by the State Bar of California, Ann M. Oakleaf brings a high level of expertise and a focused approach to her practice, ensuring that clients receive sound legal advice and strategic advocacy. Her work is guided by the belief that effective representation requires a deep understanding of the law and a commitment to helping clients through one of life's most difficult periods. Whether you are facing a contentious dispute or seeking a more amicable resolution, the goal is to provide a clear path forward. This overview will detail the services offered, the firm's accessibility, and the unique features that make Ann M. Oakleaf a notable choice for family law matters in the region. The firm's approach is designed to demystify the legal process, walking clients through complex terms and concepts so they are empowered to make the best decisions for themselves and their families. While legal matters can be intimidating, the practice strives to create a supportive environment where clients feel heard, respected, and competently represented. This commitment to both legal excellence and client well-being is a core part of the firm's identity and reputation in the Southern California legal community.

Location and Accessibility

The office of Ann M. Oakleaf, Family Law is conveniently situated at 555 E Ocean Blvd #430, Long Beach, CA 90802, USA. This prime location in downtown Long Beach offers easy access for residents throughout the city and nearby communities. Being in a major business center, the office is well-connected and simple to find. A key aspect of this firm’s commitment to client care is its emphasis on accessibility. The building provides a wheelchair-accessible car park, making it convenient for individuals with mobility challenges to arrive at their appointments. The accessibility extends to the building itself, which features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that all clients can navigate the premises without difficulty. Inside, the amenities are also designed for comfort and ease of use, including a wheelchair-accessible toilet. These thoughtful provisions highlight the firm’s dedication to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone. To ensure that each client receives the focused and dedicated attention their case deserves, the firm recommends making appointments in advance. This approach helps to manage caseloads effectively and guarantees that when you meet with the legal team, your specific situation is the top priority. The combination of a central, easy-to-reach location and a commitment to physical accessibility demonstrates a client-first philosophy that aims to remove barriers and make the legal process as smooth as possible from the very first visit. For those in Long Beach seeking a family law attorney, the convenience and thoughtful design of this office are significant advantages, reflecting a practice that truly cares about the well-being of its clients.

Services Offered

• Family Law Services: A broad range of legal support for family-related matters.
• Child Custody: Legal representation and guidance for establishing or modifying child custody arrangements.
• Child Support: Assistance with calculating, obtaining, or modifying child support orders.
• Spousal Support: Counsel and representation for issues related to spousal support (alimony).

Features / Highlights

• Certified Family Law Specialist: Ann M. Oakleaf is certified by the State Bar of California as a Family Law Specialist, demonstrating a high level of expertise in this field.
• Personalized Attention: One client review highlights the lawyer's hands-on approach, noting that she "actually picked up my calls."
• Client Education: The firm takes the time to explain complex legal terms and concepts, empowering clients to make informed decisions.
• Strategic and Organized Approach: The practice is known for its ability to organize complex cases, set clear goals, and "get things done."
• Cost-Effective Services: A client noted that the services were worth "every cent" and were charged at a rate less than previous lawyers they had used.
• Accessibility: The office is fully wheelchair-accessible, from the car park to the entrance and restrooms, ensuring a welcoming environment for all.
• Recommendations for Appointments: The firm recommends scheduling appointments to ensure a focused and dedicated consultation for each client.

Contact Information

Address: 555 E Ocean Blvd #430, Long Beach, CA 90802, USA

Phone: (562) 435-2422

What is worth choosing

When facing family law issues, the attorney you choose can make all the difference, not only in the outcome of your case but also in your peace of mind throughout the process. Ann M. Oakleaf presents a complex picture, with both a glowing recommendation and a highly critical one. This duality makes it essential for potential clients to consider all aspects carefully. The positive review describes a lawyer who is "personable," "professional," "tenacious," and "competent." This client, who had two negative experiences with previous lawyers, found Ann to be a breath of fresh air, appreciating her direct communication and her ability to organize a long-standing, complex case. The client's testimony that the money spent was "worth every cent" and that the fees were lower than her previous lawyers is a powerful endorsement of value and effectiveness. This perspective highlights a lawyer who is hands-on, strategic, and dedicated to educating her clients, helping them feel empowered rather than lost in the legal jargon. This type of personalized attention is often what clients need most during a stressful time. However, the negative review offers a starkly different viewpoint. This client describes the experience as the "worst decision," citing a lack of competence and integrity. The review alleges that the lawyer tried to prolong conversations to increase charges and lacked a clear goal or strategy. This perspective paints a picture of a practice that is not supportive and is more focused on billing than on achieving a positive outcome. The advice to "do not hire this attorney if you want to be successful in court" and to use the "Self-help desk at Family court" instead is a strong warning. It suggests that the client felt unheard and ultimately had to seek new counsel. The mention of the attorney being "burnt out" and wanting to retire indicates a perception of disengagement. These two conflicting reviews demonstrate that experiences can vary dramatically. For a potential client in California, this means that due diligence is paramount. The positive review highlights the potential for a highly beneficial, supportive, and effective legal partnership. The negative review, on the other hand, raises serious concerns about the firm's professionalism and strategic focus. It is worth noting that Ann M. Oakleaf is a Certified Family Law Specialist, which is a significant professional credential and a feature that speaks to her expertise and experience in the field. This certification is a public acknowledgment of her specialized knowledge. Ultimately, a decision to hire this attorney would likely require a careful consideration of these contrasting views, a detailed initial consultation to gauge the lawyer's approach to your specific case, and a clear discussion of fees and strategy. The firm's commitment to accessibility and appointments is a positive, but the decision on whether to proceed will depend on how a potential client weighs the very different feedback from past clients.

Ann M. Oakleaf, Family Law

555 E Ocean Blvd #430, Long Beach, CA 90802, USA