I retained Joel Seidel in October 2023 for a family law trial scheduled for February 2024 involving complex financial and business valuation issues. Before retaining him, I specifically explained that my priorities were pursuing financial discovery, valuation of my ex husband's medical corporation, hidden income concerns, and a Family Code §2640 reimbursement claim exceeding $126,000. I was assured that these issues would be aggressively pursued and that his office had substantial experience handling high conflict financial family law litigation. I then spent months gathering and providing detailed financial documentation to his office, including bank statements, contracts, financial records, and evidence I believed demonstrated financial concealment and inconsistencies involving my ex husband's business operations. Despite this, meaningful discovery efforts did not begin until very late in the case. Subpoenas and discovery were initiated only shortly before the February 2024 trial date, leaving little time for proper follow through or enforcement. As trial approached, I became increasingly concerned that the case was not prepared for trial despite having retained counsel months earlier. Instead of moving aggressively forward with litigation, pressure shifted heavily toward settlement and Mandatory Settlement Conference discussions immediately before trial. Mr. Seidel repeatedly expressed skepticism that my ex husband's medical corporation had measurable value and characterized it more like a "loan out corporation" rather than a profitable medical business with enterprise goodwill and ongoing contract relationships. Yet the court later reserved jurisdiction over business valuation post judgment and moved toward appointment of an Evidence Code §730 neutral valuation expert. He also advised that my §2640 reimbursement claim was likely not provable despite my possession of checks and written documentation supporting the separate property contributions. I later prevailed on that claim at trial and was awarded reimbursement exceeding $126,000. One of the most difficult aspects of this experience was the repeated feeling that my concerns regarding financial concealment and economic abuse were not being taken seriously despite the amount of documentation I was providing. I have since come to believe many women experience what I call the "Cassandra Effect" in family law litigation: women raise concerns regarding hidden income, financial manipulation, coercive financial behavior, or business irregularities, but are treated as emotional or unrealistic until evidence later confirms many of those concerns. Ultimately, I achieved significantly better results at trial than what I had been repeatedly told was realistic or likely achievable. My experience with Joel Seidel left me feeling unheard, poorly advised, and pressured toward settlement despite substantial unresolved financial issues. If your case involves complex business valuation issues, hidden income concerns, financial manipulation, or economic abuse dynamics, I would strongly encourage you to carefully evaluate whether this attorney is the right fit for your case. read more

I would strongly advise anyone looking for a divorce attorney to stay far away from Joel S. Seidel & Associates. My experience with them has been nothing short of frustrating and unprofessional. I initially reached out by leaving two voicemails and completing their online contact form--no response. Weeks went by with zero follow-up. Considering how sensitive and urgent divorce matters can be, this was already a major red flag. When I finally called again, Joel Seidel himself picked up. I tried to explain my experience and how frustrating it was that no one had responded to my inquiries. Instead of listening, he interrupted me rudely and dismissed my concerns. His tone was arrogant, and he immediately pivoted to asking what I needed. When I told him I was looking to explore my legal options for a potential divorce, his first response was that he charges $395 an hour for a consultation--completely ignoring the fact that I was already put through a terrible customer experience. His condescending attitude and lack of empathy made it clear that he cares more about collecting fees than actually helping people through difficult and emotional legal matters. Divorce is already stressful enough--you shouldn't have to deal with an attorney who lacks basic courtesy and professionalism. I refused to waste another second or dollar on someone like him. Save yourself the time, frustration, and money--look elsewhere. There are plenty of attorneys who will actually listen and treat you with respect. read more

Finding yourself in a legal battle is a life event nothing can prepare you for, finding yourself in a legal battle with an experienced, and knowledgeable professional on your team is something you can prepare for; and you should, as having a lawyer as focused on your goals as you are makes all the difference in the courtroom. Joel Seidel and his associates are a legal team with years of experience, unique and flexible ideas, and a legal passion and drive that has led them to create laws that are now in place to support not only their clients, but all others facing family law injustices. If you are looking for a family law attorney, there is nothing simple about the road ahead, but meeting with Joel and discussing your case is simple. Joel and his associates welcome you into their office for a face to face understanding of your personal situation and goals, and continue to avail themselves by phone, text, or email as you continue through your case. Joel and his associates are recognized throughout our local court system and have earned the respect of the court and fellow bench officers earning them the opportunity to support the outcome of your case through successful communication, mediation, or trial hearings. As a recent client I can tell you that my case was unjust; my partner was deceitful, my home was compromised, and my personal safety affected, and at all turns Joel Seidel and his associates were present, supportive, and responsive with next steps until case end. read more

If you are looking for an attorney to get the job done in your favor, rely and count on the expertise of Mr. Joel Seidel. Honest, caring, professional, and extremely knowledgeable in family law, Mr. Seidel is the attorney you want on your side. His dedication and skill in handling family law cases are truly commendable. Highly recommended! read more

One of the few honest attorneys you will find. He won't hold your hand but he will steer you straight. Good man! I haven't heard a bad comment about Joel or Tasneem and I can't imagine one ever being made. read more

Divorce is traumatic, I never imagined having to experience this overwhelming predicament. Luckily, I had two phenomenal attorneys to guide me through the painful process. Mr. Joel Siedel and Ms. Tasneem Campwala were blessings to me in this tragic time. This super team navigated a very difficult situation with ease, never allowing me to let my emotions cloud my judgement, stay positive and gracious, and to "keep my eye on the ball". They were fair, factual, timely, and could see different perspectives when I could not. THEY never played "dirty", and really kept everything professional even when things were not with opposing counsel. When I had given feedback or had questions, it was always received graciously. Their partnership offered everything that I could have ever hoped for during this process; their strengths were complimentary. They were clear, concise, factual, and focused, yet empathetic, kind, gentle, and understanding. They did everything in their power to keep my costs down. In the end, I was able to get the settlement that I wanted. Mr. Seidel and Ms. Campwala were extremely competent, professional and kind. A rare find in the field of family law. I would recommend them without reservation. A++++ read more

I got a horrible result from my 1st attorney in my divorce case concerning the Moore Marsden (the calculation to divide the community assets). I was fortunate to be referred to Attorney Seidel from the Accountant that was doing my calculations. Mr. Seidel gave me a realistic and informed outlook on my Appeal for my Moore Marsden court case. He was able to confidently get me through the process and win the Appeal saving me about $400,000 dollars. Yes, amazing. He really cares for his clients, and he is very knowledgeable about the Divorce Appeal process. You can be assured that Attorney Seidel cares and will work for your best interest. Thank you again Attorney Seidel. Steven H. read more

Joel is highly efficient, knowledgeable, personable, and directly honest! He is proficient in knowing the law and legal system. He invests extra time to research cases and provides a calm and confident presence. He's professional and outstanding! read more

When my first lawyers grossly overcharged me for services and time I didn't ask for- i hired Joel on the recommendatio of a good friend. Joel was immediately more honest and conscientous of my costs- and very invested in resolving my matter in the most efficient way possible. He took pride in being able to handle things in this manner, unlike so many other lawyers. If you're looing for an honest, effective collaborative attorney, you should definitely consider Joel. read more

Joel is a gentleman and a scholar. He is honest as the day is long and will always give it to you straight. I am a lawyer and as such i am a pain in the butt for a client but he kept me honest and gave great legal advice but more importantly great counsel. He is also very fair from a fee standpoint. Ive sent a few good friends to him as well. He makes a difficult time a little less hard. Please ask him for my phone number if you want an in person recommendation. Glad to do it. read more

Joel S. Seidel, and his team are excellent Family Law Attorney's. My case involved spousal support termination at the age of 65. I contacted a few attorneys before hiring Joel, but decided to hire him over the others, because he was responsive, professional, knowledgeable about my situation, was willing to listen and gave me honest feedback. He and his staff are great writers in preparation of all court documents required to convince the court of my case to Win. My case was only going to be resolved in the courtroom, and Joel was ready to plead my case and more importantly prepare me for the court hearing. In pleading my case, Joel new the case law very well, which he argued for a Win verdict, and we coordinated the entire case over emails and telephone calls, thereby saving me costs. Joel is very cognizant of the client's cost and does everything he can to keep costs to the minimum. I highly recommend his services! read more

I am very grateful for the warm welcome and help I received from Joel Siedel and Kristine Bowman. Three years ago, I needed their services for a simple divorce procedure that became overextended. Throughout the process, Joel and Kristine were there to walk me through the confusing parts and calm me down when things became unfamiliar and scary. Their service exceeds all expectations regarding professionalism and personal care for their client. Whenever I need them, they are always available to help quickly and with a high level of service. Thank you so much for everything! read more

No one ever wants to have to go to thru a divorce nor go to court but if you have to you can only hope you are represented by someone of the upmost integrity. I was so lucky to have found Joel. My divorce was chaotic and extremely stressful bc my ex is a narcissist and addict. The level of crap I had to wade thru was constantly mitigated by Joel and his team in a way that helped me maintain my dignity and ultimately the protection and custody of my toddler. He and his team are thorough and incredibly honest. I have kept in touch with him for guidance and advice as I co parent with an extremely difficult person. I recommend him for anyone entering the difficult and emotional circumstances of divorce and custody issues. read more

Joel Seidel did in an incredible job for me. My partner and I had an amicable divorce arrangement, and we both liked him. Joel was knowledgeable, affordable and very accommodating. I highly recommend him! read more

From the moment I met Joel I knew I was in good hands. I came to him full of anxiety and stress due to my 8 years of dealing with an abusive ex husband who made my life, and most importantly, the lives of my little girls a complete nightmare. Joel and Kristine provide a level of integrity, support and utmost professionalism that is hard to find. Joel's experience in the court room made me feel at ease and the human touch before and after is life saving. I can't say this enough - I wouldn't trust anyone else but Joel to fight for me. read more

So glad I had Joel represent me in my divorce. He is personable and had my best interest at heart. Going through a divorce is definitely stressful and he always made himself available whenever I had a question or a concern as to what direction my divorce was heading. Unfortunately the ex was a narcissist and in California that doesn't matter and I was the bread winner. Joel is straight forward and honest and advise on things that I did not necessarily agree. I consulted another attorney for a second opinion and this attorney said "Why would you consider changing attorney when you have the #1 divorce attorney in the San Fernando Valley?" Well rest assured I stayed with Joel. He is kind and considerate but holds no punches when it comes to strategies. He is well respected among his peers. His fees are reasonable and even gave me a break at times. Overall I settled out of court and satisfied with the outcome. read more

Mr. Joel Seidal is the best family law attorney I have worked with and I really appreciate his honesty, professionalism, efficiency and kindness. He is very responsive whenever I needed help on my case and often provide me with good directions and options. His rates is very fair and only charges me for what really needs to be done. Finding a honest and knowledgeable attorney is a must especially when we are going through such difficulties with custody issues in life. read more

I have never felt so confident going into court as I did this time around knowing I had Joel on my side. Joel and Kristine are the absolute best. Joel's confidence in the court room really made me feel at ease. From the moment I met with him for a consultation, I knew I needed to hire him. He really took the time to listen and get every detail of my situation from start to finish. I love the fact that Joel and Kristine want to get all the details on the history of your case so they can find the best strategy when preparing your paperwork and for court. I appreciate them always being an email or phone call away whenever needed, for all their knowledgeable advice on how to deal with my ex whom was constantly harassing me and micro managing every situation, for always answering every single one of my questions and guiding me. After court, it felt strange having to say my "goodbyes" to Joel when he and Kristine have been my go to people for the last few months. Haha. But Joel, is honestly very caring and wants the best for his clients, he made sure to let me know that he is still around and available if I ever have a question or need them. Thank you so so much for caring and never making me feel like I was just another case. Although you guys are extremely busy, you always made me feel like my case was a priority and that is truly remarkable. If and when I ever need to go back to court, best believe I will be reaching out to Joel! Once again, thank you for your keen attention to detail in my case that did not allow my ex to manipulate the system this time around. For that, I continue to have sole custody of my daughter and making sure she continues to remain safe. read more

The BEST recommendation to offer is after the experience of a very difficult and emotionally charged trial in Family Court! We found Joel to be very knowledgable, experienced, available, understanding, calm, very prepared, and organized!! We crossed a major hurdle with great success! Thank you Joel and Kristen (Joel's partner)!! I never thought our family would have to see this part of life, first hand. Knowing you were our leaders gave us the confidence and comfort we needed! We thank you, and wanted to express our appreciation. read more