Christina M. Marine
Certified Family Law Specialist
Christina is a highly experienced family law attorney who has been practicing for over two decades. With offices in Marin County, Berkeley, and La Jolla, she has safely guided hundreds of clients through challenging family law issues. Christina's deep understanding of family law issues, combined with her compassionate approach and commitment to her clients, make her a trusted advocate for those navigating difficult family law matters.
What is a Certified Family Law Specialist?
Expertise Matters.
Only attorneys certified by the Board of Legal Specialization of the State Bar of California may represent themselves as Family Law Specialists certified by the State Bar of California. To qualify for certification an attorney must:
1. Be an active member in good standing of the State Bar of California;
2. Pass a written examination covering California Family Law;
3. Have substantial experience in the field of Family Law;
4. Complete specified approved legal education requirements
applicable to the Family Law field; and
5. Be favorably evaluated by judges and other attorneys concerning his or
her knowledge, ability and experience in the practice of Family Law.
Certification by the Board of Legal Specialization is for a five-year period. Recertification for additional five-year periods does not require further examination but does require continuing compliance with other listed standards such as reporting 36 hours of educational compliance every three years. Certification gives lawyers the opportunity to make their experience and practice specialty known to the public and other attorneys. By continued compliance with the listed requirements, a Certified Family Law Specialist maintains and improves his or her knowledge and competence in the Family Law field.
Names and addresses of all Board Certified Family Law Specialists may be obtained from the office of the Board of Legal Specialization, State Bar of California. 180 Howard Street, San Francisco, CA 94105-1639, LegalSpec@calbar.ca.gov or via phone at 415-538-2120. Specialist status is also noted on the State Bar’s website in the Attorney Search.
PRACTICE AREAS
Divorce
We understand the financial and emotional challenges of divorce, annulment, or dissolution of a domestic partnership. Attorney Marine will take the time to explain your rights and obligations as your case proceeds, which may include the following types of cases: Contested Divorces, Uncontested Divorces, Annulment, Dissolution of a Domestic Partnership, or Legal Separation.
Guardianships
Guardianship proceedings are where a person, who is not the natural parent of a child, seeks custody of a child and/or the power to manage the child’s property. Such hearings typically take place in probate court, but sometimes may be heard in the juvenile court.
Child Custody & Visitation
There are two types of custody, legal and physical. Legal custody involves decisions concerning a child’s health, safety, education, and general welfare. These issues involve a child’s fundamental rights. Physical custody involves the day-to-day parenting of a child. A parent who cares for a child for more than one-half of the time is the “primary custodial parent.” The parent who cares for the child less than one-half the time is the parent who has visitation. Physical custody also involves parents sharing holidays, vacations, and the children’s breaks from school. Visitation is granted in some capacity unless visitation with a parent would be detrimental to the child.
Child Support
The State of California has a mandated statutory guideline for the calculation of child support. Guideline child support is calculated using a number of variables most notably: the number of children, the respective timeshares of each parent with the children, the gross monthly income of each parent, the tax filing status of each parent, and certain other deductions including but not limited to health insurance premiums, mortgage interest, union dues, etc…
Premarital & Postmarital Agreements
In California, premarital and postmarital agreements allow couples to outline their financial rights and responsibilities before or after marriage. These agreements can protect assets, define property division, and establish spousal support terms, providing clarity and security for both parties in the event of a divorce.
Domestic Violence Restraining Orders
In California, a Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DVRO) protects individuals from abuse or threats by a family member, cohabitant, or intimate partner. These orders can include provisions for no contact, stay-away requirements, and temporary custody arrangements, ensuring the safety and well-being of those affected.
Division of Assets
California separates property into two classes, community and separate, and California law requires a determination of whether a given asset qualifies as community or separate property. The distinction is crucial, and the parties do not always agree on an asset or debt’s classification.
Spousal Support
In California, spousal support, or alimony, is financial assistance awarded to a spouse following a divorce to help maintain their standard of living. The court considers various factors, including the length of the marriage, each spouse's financial needs and abilities, and their contributions to the marriage, to determine the amount and duration of support.
Client Counseling
Client counseling by a family law attorney involves providing personalized legal guidance and support during emotionally challenging times. Attorney Marine helps clients understand their rights, explore legal options, and develop strategies for issues like divorce, child custody, and spousal support, ensuring informed and effective decision-making.
EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION
2002 - Present
Attorney at Law
Law Offices of Christina M. Marine
At Marine Family Law, I have provided expert legal advice and representation to clients in a wide range of family law matters, including child support, custody, visitation, and spousal support.
2001 - 2002
Associate Attorney
San Diego County Superior Court District Attorney, Department of Child Support Enforcement
My unique experiences working within the child support system and, on the other side, as a family law attorney, have given me insights, perspectives, and advantages that attorneys who have not worked within the child support lack. This experience was instrumental in developing my legal acumen and positively impacting families and children.
December 2001
Admitted to California Bar
1997-1999
Juris Doctor
Thomas Jefferson School of Law
I received my Juris Doctor degree from Thomas Jefferson School of Law, where I focused on family law and worked for the San Diego District Attorney's office.
1991-1994
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
Arizona State University
I received my Bachelor's Degree from Arizona State University, where I majored in Psychology.
TESTIMONIALS
“Have I told you lately how awesome you are? I would recommend you to anyone in a heartbeat." – Lillian P.
“Christina's professionalism, attention to detail, and compassion brought a quick resolution to a very traumatic event in my life. I will forever be grateful for her help and will recommend her service to anyone else who is need.” - Jake M.
“Thank you so much for navigating me through this past year. You not only know the law but your sincere support of your clients is evident in all you do.” – Kathy C.
EXPERTISE
Divorce
At Marine Family Law, we have extensive experience in all aspects of divorce, including property division, spousal support, and child custody and support.
Child Custody
We understand the importance of providing the best possible outcome for your children, and we will work tirelessly to ensure that your rights and the best interests of your children are protected.
Spousal Support
Whether you are seeking spousal support or fighting against it, we have the experience and expertise to provide you with the best possible outcome.
OUR OFFICES
Berkeley
2001 Addison Street, Suite 300, Berkeley, CA 94704
Larkspur (Marin County)
700 Larkspur Landing Circle, Suite 199, Larkspur, CA 94939
La Jolla
4275 Executive Square, Suite 200, La Jolla, CA 92037