Q: For the first six months of our case we had a judge who seemed fair. He was suddenly reassigned, and a new judge is handling things. His rulings are really awful. We think he has some prejudice against us. … more

Q: I have heard so many horror stories about divorces, including how the lawyers act.  I have heard the courts are backed up, and everything takes too long and costs way too much. Is that simply the way it is? … more

Q:  We are giving serious consideration to suing someone who owes us money. Any basics on what we should consider before taking the plunge? — F.S., Torrance A: A good summary can be found online at the Orange County Superior … more

Q: Got any advice for someone just starting out as a lawyer? — A.J., Manhattan Beach A: Patience, integrity, determination, focus, courtesy, and creativity. It takes patience — with yourself, other lawyers, the courts and agencies, with the process, the laws, … more

Q: Our son is just about done with graduate school — two years. We loaned him $40,000 (he paid part of the cost). We have a typed note he signed to pay us back over time, with interest. If we … more

Q: The holidays are coming up, but we really can’t start breakfast at our son’s high school with a prayer, even one with no reference to any particular religious figure, gender or otherwise?— W.L., Rancho Palos Verdes A: The Establishment … more

Q:  My friend had her ID seized at a bar.  She is young looking, but 27 years of age.  When the picture was taken she was pregnant and a bit heavier.  She has since lost weight and has streaks in … more

Q: There’s more attention now paid to bullying at schools, but what does the behavior have to consist of for something to be done? Does it include a student saying bad things to another on the Internet? — L.M., Manhattan … more

Q: We were out for dinner. Our son (19) took my car out for a spin and got in an accident. The other party says it’s his fault. She has some injuries from, what I gather (though not real significant), … more

Q:  I have exchanged several emails with another party about buying his house.  They set forth the basic terms, to which he agreed.  Now he is stalling as I think he may have someone who will pay more.  Can I … more