San Diego Divorce Attorneys

Experienced and competitive family lawyers that advocate for you across San Diego County.

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San Diego, CA

Office Locations

Mission Valley Office

Address

1615 Murray Canyon Rd, Ste. 450

San Diego, CA 92108

Office Hours

Mon–Fri: 8:30 AM–5 PM

Sat–Sun: Closed

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San Diego Office

Address

16644 West Bernardo Dr, Ste. 201

San Diego, CA 92127

Office Hours

Mon–Fri: 8:30 AM–5 PM

Sat–Sun: Closed

Email

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When a Local Divorce Lawyer in San Diego Matters Most

If you live in San Diego County and are getting divorced, finding a local, San Diego—based family law attorney has many advantages.

Despite being a large city, the San Diego family law community is small. Many family law attorneys have worked together in the past, so local attorneys often have relationships with opposing counsel. This creates a better opportunity for an amicable divorce process. The attorneys at Cage & Miles strive to have professional and respectful relationships with other San Diego lawyers and are known for being responsive and reasonable, helping all parties reach an agreement.

San Diego County family law attorneys are also more knowledgeable about the current family law judges, allowing them to better tailor requests, set forth facts, and advise clients. The attorneys at Cage & Miles are familiar with all judges among the four county courthouses and continue to adapt based on how they approach issues like child custody, support, and domestic violence restraining orders.  

Local San Diego family law attorneys, like the Cage & Miles team, also thoroughly understand rules that only San Diego County may enforce. For example, about submitting specific forms or citing specific rules that attorneys not familiar with San Diego County or its local rules may overlook.

San Diego County has a large military population, and the team at Cage & Miles also consists of attorneys with various military backgrounds and relationships. This knowledge allows our team to ensure active-duty clients feel understood, especially when military-specific issues arise. Cage & Miles understands the impact the military has on the community, and we strive to support military members and their spouses.

Why You Should Consider Divorce Mediation in San Diego

Mediation allows parties to settle their case up-front rather than proceed to a long and expensive trial. It can be scheduled as soon as all parties are available and prepared, helping to avoid the year-long trial backlog in San Diego.

Mediation is also typically less stressful than proceeding to trial because it doesn’t require tedious preparation and court appearances. Divorce mediation in San Diego offers added flexibility, empowering both parties to amicably reach an agreement. Even if both parties are unable to settle in mediation, they can likely submit a Judgment for Dissolution—a faster option than awaiting the outcome of the trial—to finalize their divorce.

It’s important to note, however, that unlike other California counties, if an agreement is not reached during mediation at Family Court Services in San Diego County, the information discussed during the session is shared—via a formal written report—with the court. This is why it’s particularly important to consult with a San Diego family attorney who can prepare you for the session and prevent you from sharing too much (or too little) confidential information that may be used against you in court.

Filing For Divorce in San Diego County

  1. Filing and Serving the Divorce Petition: To proceed with a divorce, you must complete and file a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage and several other required forms. On the petition, be sure to cite reasons for the divorce you’d like to address throughout the process. Once complete, you’ll need to serve the other party.
  2. Requesting Temporary Court Orders: After the forms have been filed, a party can file a request with the Court for “temporary orders” for attorney fees, child custody, child support, and spousal support. These orders remain in effect until the parties come to another agreement or until the parties’ Judgement for Dissolution is entered by the court.
  3. Exchanging Information & Conducting Discovery: As part of the divorce process, both parties are required to exchange financial information in the form of Preliminary Declarations of Disclosure. These disclosures outline all assets, debts, and include documentation like bank statements, car titles, tax returns, and other financial documents, allowing parties to more easily negotiate and proceed toward settlement.
  4. Mediation & Collaboration: Although many people think all legal matters proceed to trial, that is not the case. Many couples agree to proceed through mediation, collaboration, or settlement negotiations to finalize their divorce and receive a Judgment for Dissolution.
  5. Trial: If parties can’t settle, they proceed to trial. Going to trial can be overwhelming and time-consuming, but having a skilled attorney by your side can make all the difference. Family law specialists, like our attorneys at Cage & Miles, are skilled in preparing for trial, compiling evidence, and crafting arguments to set forth your position based on the proof you can provide.

Cage & Miles: San Diego Family Lawyers

Cage & Miles is an elite and esteemed family law firm serving all of San Diego County that’s on a mission to advocate for our clients, every step of the way. With our extensive track record of success and our relationship-first approach, our team of skilled divorce attorneys in San Diego guide clients and keep their best interests in mind to allow them to find clarity and peace of mind, so they can focus forward.

Military Divorce Lawyers in San Diego

Divorce is complicated for all couples—but incredibly so for military couples who face additional challenges. In addition to state and federal laws, military regulations can govern certain aspects of these cases, adding an extra layer of complexity.  

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) helps protect the rights of active-duty military personnel, allowing them to postpone divorce proceedings when they are unavailable to protect their best interests, like in the case of deployment. Experienced military divorce attorneys can help you navigate these rules and regulations to determine what is best for you.

Because of the large San Diego military community and former service members at our firm, the attorneys at Cage & Miles have years of experience navigating complex military divorce issues.

With expertise across a wide variety of legal issues like divorce, child support and custody, domestic violence, and mediation, our San Diego lawyers will partner with you to not only determine the right path forward, but also help you arrive at your desired outcome.

San Diego, CA

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions?

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Divorce is a multi-step process that can be costly and time-consuming. Once you’ve come to the difficult decision to separate from your partner, it’s best to seek out the advice of an experienced family law attorney. These specialists can help you navigate the complexities of the divorce process, facilitate mediation, or represent your interests in the case of a trial. It’s also recommended to find a family law attorney local to your city to ensure they are familiar with the legal landscape and any existing regulations or laws specific to where you live.

Choosing an attorney is a very personal process. Finding a lawyer who specializes in family law should be a top priority. You’ll also want to choose a lawyer who you feel comfortable with and trust. Reading reviews and asking for referrals from close friends and family can help you narrow down your search. From there, you should schedule a consultation to learn more about the attorney’s and firm’s experiences to ensure it’s a good fit for both parties.

Laws in every state and city vary, so it’s important to know what to expect in your area. California is a no-fault divorce state, meaning that a spouse does not need to exhibit any wrongdoing to get divorced. If this is the case, it should be noted on your initial Petition for Dissolution, which is the first step when filing for divorce in San Diego.

If you bypass mediation and go to trial, San Diego County has a judicial backlog that can cause long wait times of up to a year. Once your trial begins, it will be assigned to one of four San Diego courthouses depending on your zip code. An experienced family law attorney can help you navigate all of these steps, along with helping you prepare for trial and set forth your position.

San Diego, CA

Legal Services

From straightforward agreements to high-conflict cases, we help you move forward with clarity. We offer personalized legal solutions backed by deep experience in complex and sensitive matters.

Child Support

Make sure your child gets the financial support they need — whether you're requesting, modifying, or enforcing a support order.
Child Support

Child Custody

Protect your child’s well-being with help resolving custody disputes, modifying agreements, or handling move-away cases.
Child Custody

Collaborative Law

A structured, confidential process that helps resolve all aspects of divorce efficiently and out of court, with attorneys guiding conflict resolution and solutions.
Collaborative Law

Divorce

Navigate the complex legal, financial, and emotional aspects of divorce with experienced, strategic representation.
Divorce

Domestic Violence

Our team of seasoned domestic violence attorneys can help you take legal action with confidence, find clarity, and move forward.
Domestic Violence

Family Law Appeals

Challenge a family court decision with confidence. The appeals process helps identify legal errors and pursue a fair outcome.
Family Law Appeals

Family Law Mediation

Resolve conflicts amicably. Our mediators specialize in divorce, custody, support, and property disputes to achieve mutually beneficial agreements.
Family Law Mediation

LGBTQ+ Family Law

Empowering LGBTQ+ families with expert legal guidance, from adoption to marriage and gender marker changes.
LGBTQ+ Family Law

Paternity Actions

Establish or challenge legal parenthood to protect your rights and your child’s future.
Paternity Actions

Post-Judgment Modifications

Make adjustments after your case ends. Modify child custody, child support, or spousal support orders and more.
Post-Judgment Modifications

Restraining Orders

Get help securing or defending against a domestic violence (DVRO) or civil harassment restraining order (CHRO).
Restraining Orders

Spousal Support

Secure fair spousal support outcomes whether establishing, mediating, or modifying spousal support.
Spousal Support
San Diego, CA

Your Local Attorneys

Find My Local Attorney
Shannon B. Miles
Founding Partner
Shannon B. Miles
Shannon B. Miles
Jaime N. Cage
Founding Partner
Jaime N. Cage
Jaime N. Cage
Jillian Duggan-Herd
Partner
Jillian Duggan-Herd
Jillian Duggan-Herd
Adrian Doty
Attorney
Adrian Doty
Adrian Doty
Alaina Lynch
Attorney
Alaina Lynch
Alaina Lynch
Allison Kuska
Attorney
Allison Kuska
Allison Kuska
Bethany Ward
Attorney
Bethany Ward
Bethany Ward
Carmen Ramos
Certified Family Law Specialist
Carmen Ramos
Carmen Ramos
Chelcee Eads
Attorney
Chelcee Eads
Chelcee Eads
Christina Alkire
Certified Family Law Specialist
Christina Alkire
Christina Alkire
David Crosgrove
Attorney
David Crosgrove
David Crosgrove
Deanne Arthur
Attorney
Deanne Arthur
Deanne Arthur
Elisa Kisselburg
Certified Family Law Specialist
Elisa Kisselburg
Elisa Kisselburg
Elizabeth M. Brown
Certified Family Law Specialist
Elizabeth M. Brown
Elizabeth M. Brown
James Dooley
Certified Family Law Specialist
James Dooley
James Dooley
Jamie Learakos
Attorney
Jamie Learakos
Jamie Learakos
Jeffrey Miller
Attorney
Jeffrey Miller
Jeffrey Miller
Jennifer Zachry
Certified Family Law Specialist
Jennifer Zachry
Jennifer Zachry
John Sylvester
Certified Appellate & Family Law Specialist
John Sylvester
John Sylvester
Kathleen Jones Raya
Consulting Attorney
Kathleen Jones Raya
Kathleen Jones Raya
Kevin Alexander
Attorney
Kevin Alexander
Kevin Alexander
LaTosha Hall
Attorney
LaTosha Hall
LaTosha Hall
Lauren Trinrud
Attorney
Lauren Trinrud
Lauren Trinrud
Leyla Tabatabaie
Certified Family Law Specialist
Leyla Tabatabaie
Leyla Tabatabaie
Lindsay Abel
Attorney
Lindsay Abel
Lindsay Abel
Mehry Mohseni
Certified Family Law Specialist
Mehry Mohseni
Mehry Mohseni
Michele Sacks Lowenstein
Certified Family Law Specialist
Michele Sacks Lowenstein
Michele Sacks Lowenstein
Ryan Goulet
Attorney
Ryan Goulet
Ryan Goulet
Sandra Mayberry
Certified Family Law Specialist
Sandra Mayberry
Sandra Mayberry
Steven K. Brumer
Certified Family Law Specialist
Steven K. Brumer
Steven K. Brumer
Traci Hoppes
Certified Family Law Specialist
Traci Hoppes
Traci Hoppes
San Diego, CA

Client Testimonials

Hear directly from the individuals and families we’ve helped through complex, emotional legal matters. Their words reflect our commitment to clarity, compassion, and successful outcomes.

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Our experience with Steven Brummer was excellent. We were working through a stressful situation but Steven and his team were so helpful and completely put us at ease. Everything was well explained and we knew we were in good hands. Thank you Steven.

Adam Johnson

I could not recommend Cage & Miles enough. I was involved in a tough custody case, Christina Alkire and Brenda Rozynek were there for me every step of the way.

Adam Valdez

Jaime & Shannon did a great job for me. I always felt like I knew what was going on with my case and like they listened to what I wanted. A few times I was pretty upset about my case and Jaime explained everything to me so I could understand and calm down. It's amazing how much they know off of the top of their heads. They are great attorneys and people, and I would recommmend them to anyone else in a heart beat.

Alex G

My review is for my experience with John Sylvester. John is a top tier attorney all around. He is an excellent advocate and has in depth knowledge of family law issues. He is also excellent in court--very persuasive, well-prepared, organized, and detailed oriented. He is kind, professional, and fair with billing. He was honest with me when I was faced with a hard litigation decision and never took advantage of me for additional fees. I highly recommend John if you need an attorney who is honest and compassionate, well-versed in the law, and excels in the courtroom.

Alexa White

I consulted with Mehry Mohseni regarding a difficult situation that my elderly father is involved in. She took the time to read the details of the situation, listened to my questions and provided a great deal of helpful information. I found her to be very knowledgeable, and we will definitely be choosing her to represent my dad should he decide to move forward. The first attorney I consulted with didn't even take the time to read my summary of the situation, and gave me misinformation! I am very grateful to Mehry for helping us figure out how to proceed.

Alison W

VANESSA and TANIA are awesome. First time being in a custody battle and they were able to answer all my questions and give me a piece of mind. When my court day came VANESSA was able to get me exactly what she had said she could get me when it came to custody. She went into that court room and argued my case with confidence. I walked out on my very first court day with my case resolved and exactly with the outcome I wanted. She’s awesome and will definitely refer her. Her and Tania work wonderful together and are very easy to get a hold of and respond quickly.

Alyssa Jutras

Divorce is a messy business and not always pleasant. Shannon Miles was very knowledgable and matter of fact (which I really appreciated). Her team at Cage & Miles were easy to work with, professional, thorough, and cared about providing a good experience for their clients. I appreciate all of their hard work and follow up to get my divorce finalized. I would recommend them if you need a good lawyer.

Amy Allen

Great firm. They have been over the top exceptional! I have a "high conflict" case and Jaime has been amazing with every tantrum my ex throws our way. They are also knowledgeable about personality disorders which are helpful in my case. Jaime and Shannon take the time to explain the divorce process and help make a smooth transition for you and your family.

Amy C

Amazing team of experts - I could not have navigated the past 4 years without their help for custody, child support, bankruptcy and even a name change. Thank you so much Steve and Rob for making my 4 children your priority.

Ana T

My lawyer, Tracey Hoppes was incredibly empathetic, responsive, and caring in such a busy time for her, and always made me feel like a priority.

Andrew Parry

Hi - I am eternally grateful for Traci Hoppes and her team at Cage & Miles - on the contrary of being a divorce attorney, she has saved our marriage. Traci is a CFLS (Certified Family Law Specialist) with an abundance of experience and expertise in her field of practice. She is also gifted with her experience and understanding of addiction and how to navigate these troubled waters. She has saved my young children from harm's way, and this is not a debt in which I can repay. Traci has forced my wife to look at herself and made her accountable for her actions, this in turn has brought about her sobriety and her joining AA. She is two years sober now and still working on herself. I am proud of her and her continued sobriety. Thank you again, Traci all the best to you!

Andy Chien

My experience with Steven Brumer was excellent. Though I'm not personally in bankruptcy, I'm connected to one, and the situation is quite complicated. I was referred to Steven, thinking I'd need an advocate. He gave me a very good "education" on how the system works, and ideas on how to navigate it. It was that advice that empowered me to begin the process myself - something I would have been afraid to do before - and as it turned out, I was successful on my own. Thank you so much, Steven! If you need an attorney who is expert at his craft as well as an excellent communicator, and undoubtedly an excellent advocate, I can't recommend Steven Brumer highly enough.

Anita McKewen

I was referred to Cage & Miles by a friend, and went in for a consultation with Jaime Cage. I knew right away it was a good fit. Jaime listened carefully, answered all my questions, and was very helpful and supportive. Throughout the whole process, she and her support staff were always there if I had a question or concern. I really appreciate all the did for me! I would highly recommend Jaime Cage

Ann L

I hired John Sylvester two years ago while I was going through several issues in my family law case. To date, he has helped me resolve every single one of those issues in my favor. His professionalism and knowledge of the law is second to none. He was always responsive when I had questions. He helped me understand how everything worked, from RFOs, to subpoenas, to trial litigation. John always had a plan, and he was always prepared. He was able to take all the information I gave him and make sense of it all. John never pushed me to spend more money and Rebecca the co-owner was kind enough to work out the financial aspects of my bills with me. I consider myself fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with John, and I have already recommended him to friends and family who want the best family attorney in San Diego.

Anthony C

I was represented by Cage & Miles and their legal Team. Let me start by saying that there is no better law firm to help you with a personal legal matter that you have no idea where to start. I worked mostly with Ryan an Amazing, Knowledgeable, Ambitious, Professional young man with such Integrity. Never leaves an e-mail without being answered promptly. Answers all your questions in layman's terms. He speaks to you with such respect and never lets you feel shot down. It was a long and weary 2+years but there is no other law firm I would have wanted to stand next to me. Thank you!

Ari Hernandez

My ex is a total asshole, I can't thank Cage & Miles enough for putting him in his place and helping me and my daughter get out of a really bad situation. Use Cage & Miles if your husband thinks he can take advantage of you!

Ashley L

I cannot say enough good things about Maria and Cinthia and the firm! After a terrible experience with another firm who constantly had me working with different people, never following up with me, and dragging my case out for over a year, costing me so much money, I was discouraged to say the least. I came here where they listened to me, always got back to me quickly, and charged me fairly! Thanks to Maria listening to me and working with me, she got my case settled and got me everything I wanted within a few months of me switching to her as my lawyer. This firm helped me feel like I got my life back and they were such a blessing. They always communicated efficiently and I couldn't recommend a better firm!

Ashley a

You cannot go wrong with Cage & Miles. They are truly exceptional. I found Cage & Miles at an incredibly difficult time in my life and I found everyone at the firm to be very compassionate to my situation. Jaime is extremely knowledgable and put me at ease. She answered all of my questions and listened to my concerns. I want to thank Jaime and the rest of Cage & Miles for their time, compassion, and exceptional legal advise.

Audra P

They are very good company to deal with the family law, I had Mehry Mohseni and Stephanie they did an awesome job. They will let you know what is going on in your case, help you how the court works and put you in the picture when you go inside the court what you expect to happen. They will prepare you for your court day very well.I’ll recommend them to anyone going through these kind of problems they will do their best for you.

Aya Lockman

Deanne Arthur is like a quiet tiger in the storm--calm, strategic, and relentless. She was my second attorney in a complex case involving international law, and she cut through the noise, closed loopholes I hadn't even considered, and kept the court focused on facts and not family law politics. If you need a lawyer who stays steady under pressure and fights smart, she's the one.

B Haswah/Sofia H.

I would give 1000 stars if I could! Jillian Duggan-Herd is the BEST! She and her firm handled my child custody matter with determination, fierceness and FOUGHT for me and my kids. The empathy for her clients is top notch and the knowledge she and the staff have was unmatched in the courtroom. I retained her firm twice and will do so again if need be. I had retained 2 lawyers prior to her and I wish I found Jillian sooner!!! Her firm is the ONLY one I trust. Thank you Jillian!!!

Bethany Schiffmacher

I highly recommend Cage and Miles if you’re going through a divorce. From the start, Jaime walked me through the process, gathering information and all the while was very empathetic to what I was going through. In nearly every situation, she was able to predict exactly what my ex would do, and in hind sight I wish I had followed more of her advice. This is an emotional time in one’s life, and I let past feelings cloud my decisions.

Bill J
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Legal Insights & Tips

Family Law Blog

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Family Law

Can I File for Divorce In California If My Spouse Is Out of State?

Yes, you can file for divorce in California even if your spouse lives in another state—but there are specific residency, jurisdiction, and service requirements that must be followed. This blog explains how California handles out-of-state divorces, including residency rules, property and custody jurisdiction, and proper service of process under CCP §415 and Family Code §5700.201.
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Can I File for Divorce In California If My Spouse Is Out of State?
A judge’s gavel rests on a torn divorce document with two wedding rings beside it.
Family Law

Domestic Violence and Divorce in California: What You Need to Know

Domestic violence can take many forms—physical, emotional, financial, or psychological—and has a major impact on how divorce cases are handled in California. This blog explains how allegations of abuse influence custody, support, and property division, and outlines the legal protections available to ensure safety and stability for survivors.
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Domestic Violence and Divorce in California: What You Need to Know
A couple sits at a table with divorce papers in front of them, their wedding rings placed on top of the document.
Family Law

Divorce for High-Income Couples in California: What to Expect

High-income divorces in California are complex due to intricate financial portfolios, business interests, and privacy concerns. This blog explains the unique challenges these couples face—such as asset valuation, fluctuating income, and public scrutiny—and emphasizes the importance of experienced legal counsel to protect wealth, privacy, and long-term financial stability
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Divorce for High-Income Couples in California: What to Expect
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Other Cage & Miles Locations

Los Angeles, CA
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Los Angeles, CA
Riverside, CA
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Riverside, CA
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