Your Trusted San Marcos, CA Family Law Firm

Ardent Divorce Law Representation.

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57 +

Years of Combined Legal Experience

24 /7

Availability By Appointment, Phone & Video Consult

30

Minute Family Law Consultations

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Welcome to Fischer & Van Thiel’s Family Law Firm

Fischer & Van Thiel’s Law Firm is committed to providing you with proactive mediation, courtroom representation, and legal counsel during your family law or divorce litigation proceedings.

Our reputation is built on decades of comprehensive knowledge gained  through years of providing the spectrum of family law legal services.

We appropriately apply our extensive experience and best practice time-tested approach proven to successfully navigate the many of the complexities associated with California Family Law Court Cases for the benefit of our Clients and their Family.

We understand that every legal situation is unique in its challenges. That’s why serving our clients with compassion, tenacity, and a commitment to resolving cases quickly and successfully is paramount to our continued success. We are here to help!

Schedule a Free Case Evaluation

57+

Years of Combined Legal Experience

24/7

Availability By Appointment, Phone & Video Consult

30

Minute Family Law Consultations

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Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

Looking for the Best Family Law Attorneys in San Marcos? Lawyers You Can Trust with Your Family's Best Interests?  Perfect! You Found Us.

I hired Thomas Fischer to represent me in a child custody case in San Diego. He and his paralegal Andrea worked on my case tirelessly for two years. They were amazing! We won the case and I received full custody of my oldest son. Even with all of the stresses...
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I hired Thomas Fischer to represent me in a child custody case in San Diego.

He and his paralegal Andrea worked on my case tirelessly for two years. They were amazing! We won the case and I received full custody of my oldest son. Even with all of the stresses of the legal process, Thomas helped me to understand everything that was happening and I am eternally grateful. He was also able to work with me on billing and that alone helped to relieve some of the pressure inherent in the Attorney/client relationship. If you need an intelligent, effective, and tenacious attorney, you will be extremely happy with Thomas Fisher.

Joe H.

04/05/25

Thank you Michael Fischer and Linda for all of your hard work. You have the best staff and fought for myself and my family. Thank you thank you thank you!!

Autumn R.

12/04/24

Mike Fischer and his colleagues have helped me with several matters in recent years. They are concise and direct in providing legal advice, while respecting their client's preferences and decisions. Their fees and time-accounting practices seem reasonable for the services rendered. I recommend them as an experienced and effective family...
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Mike Fischer and his colleagues have helped me with several matters in recent years.

They are concise and direct in providing legal advice, while respecting their client's preferences and decisions. Their fees and time-accounting practices seem reasonable for the services rendered. I recommend them as an experienced and effective family law firm in the North San Diego County area.

Jay H.

03/01/24

I am very happy with Melissa Rodriguez for helping me with my mother’s estate. She is a warm hearted professional woman with a wonderful disposition. I was given excellent advice and she didn’t even charge me for the hours she worked. I highly recommend her to my family and friends.
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I am very happy with Melissa Rodriguez for helping me with my mother’s estate.

She is a warm hearted professional woman with a wonderful disposition. I was given excellent advice and she didn’t even charge me for the hours she worked. I highly recommend her to my family and friends.

Heather P.

01/08/24

Mr. Van Thiel wrote a letter for me that worked like a charm on my ex-husband It was a simple intake process and got me the results I wanted, so I'd definitely recommend hiring him to someone with ex-spouse issues.
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Mr. Van Thiel wrote a letter for me that worked like a charm on my ex-husband

It was a simple intake process and got me the results I wanted, so I'd definitely recommend hiring him to someone with ex-spouse issues.

Adrienne M.

01/02/24

Michael Fischer offered his excellent support dealing with a contempt, while many other attorneys didn't want to get near it. Mr. Fischer's style was succinct, thorough, courteous, and he has excellent communication. I highly recommend him.

Kim K.

01/01/24

I've spent 2 days trying to get assistance for a trust and probate issue And while they weren't the law specialist I was looking for the were kind enough to take 5 minutes to point me in the right direction. They did a lot more for me than The Law...
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I've spent 2 days trying to get assistance for a trust and probate issue

And while they weren't the law specialist I was looking for the were kind enough to take 5 minutes to point me in the right direction. They did a lot more for me than The Law Center in Encinitas, who heard me out for 15 seconds interrupted me and essentially said they didn't have the time and hung up.

N. O.

05/10/23

I want to thank this law firm for supporting me throughout this challenging time! Working with attorney VanThiel and his paralegal Shari Hile were excellent. I simply can't express how grateful I am to have them.Very knowledgeable and professional in your field! I had really acceptable experience with their legal...
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I want to thank this law firm for supporting me throughout this challenging time!

Working with attorney VanThiel and his paralegal Shari Hile were excellent. I simply can't express how grateful I am to have them.Very knowledgeable and professional in your field! I had really acceptable experience with their legal consultation. They have professional and friendly staff. Overall, excellent outcome.

Scott M.

01/01/23

I highly recommend this law firm. Elizabeth VanThiel helped me tremendously with my divorce and Michael Fischer helped me with my previous divorce which were both difficult. They both helped smooth out custody issues, child support and gave me the reassurance that everything would be taken care of and gave...
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I highly recommend this law firm.

Elizabeth VanThiel helped me tremendously with my divorce and Michael Fischer helped me with my previous divorce which were both difficult. They both helped smooth out custody issues, child support and gave me the reassurance that everything would be taken care of and gave me peace of mind. If you are looking for a divorce lawyer, then look no further. Their knowledge, experience and drive for what they do each day definitely shows. I will forever be grateful for both Elizabeth and Michael’s dedication and hard work on both of my divorce cases.

Anne W.

12/16/19

I can not say enough about how wonderful our experience was with Fischer and Van Thiel, everyone was kind, knowledgeable and understanding to everyone involved in the adoption case. We brought our child home one month after hiring this attorney. We had been through "the system" and were so scared...
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I can not say enough about how wonderful our experience was with Fischer and Van Thiel, everyone was kind, knowledgeable and understanding to everyone involved in the adoption case.

We brought our child home one month after hiring this attorney. We had been through "the system" and were so scared to take this journey but we had such amazing help every step of the way, this can be a truly scary time. Thank you for being there for the support Fischer and Van Thiel!

Thornton L.

05/19/19

Craig Van Thiel and staff were excellent on all accounts. They represented me and my interests with the highest degree of professionalism.We were under a short timeline that met, due to the to their attention to detail and Mr Van Thiel's involvement every step of the way. Most importantly during...
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Craig Van Thiel and staff were excellent on all accounts.

They represented me and my interests with the highest degree of professionalism.We were under a short timeline that met, due to the to their attention to detail and Mr Van Thiel's involvement every step of the way. Most importantly during the mediation both parties left the meeting with a well designed proposal that was fair to everyone. if you want a lawyer that will give you great representation, I recommend them.

Jeff H.

03/13/19

Fischer and Van Thiel have been a great law firm. From the beginning of my consultation up to my final divorce proceedings and anything asked after has been nothing short of professional and courteous. They ensure clarification and are responsive when handling your case. I'd recommend them to anyone.
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Fischer and Van Thiel have been a great law firm.

From the beginning of my consultation up to my final divorce proceedings and anything asked after has been nothing short of professional and courteous. They ensure clarification and are responsive when handling your case. I'd recommend them to anyone.

Zeporia F.

05/31/18

I needed help for my child support case Like a stream of light, they arrived just in time. Very professional, very knowledgeable, as straightforward as you can get. The settlement didn’t take too long. Mr. Fischer and Van Thiel really helped me through my situation, the phone call updates and...
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I needed help for my child support case

Like a stream of light, they arrived just in time. Very professional, very knowledgeable, as straightforward as you can get. The settlement didn’t take too long. Mr. Fischer and Van Thiel really helped me through my situation, the phone call updates and email really eased my mind and relieved my stress. So don’t worry, if you need help give them a call.

Paul M.

05/24/18

I can't speak for the entire firm, but as far as Mike Fischer goes, he's top notch. I had 3 different lawyers during my divorce and the only one that actually accomplished something for me was Mike. I eventually went my own way to finalize the divorce, but when my...
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I can't speak for the entire firm, but as far as Mike Fischer goes, he's top notch.

I had 3 different lawyers during my divorce and the only one that actually accomplished something for me was Mike. I eventually went my own way to finalize the divorce, but when my spouses attorney was being difficult I went back to Mike. He then helped me for a few hours and didn't ask for a cent in return. Try to get that kind of service from another attorney! 5 stars for Mike.

Adam M.

04/18/18

 

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57+

Years of Combined Legal Experience

24/7

Availability By Appointment, Phone & Video Consult

30

Minute Family Law Consultations

Experienced Family Law Lawyers

Nuestros abogados hablan español.

  • Divorce Law Services
  • Mediation Counsel
  • Military Divorce
  • Domestic Violence

Our Divorce Services Schedule a Free Consultation

Experienced Family Lawyers Who Care

Why Choose Fischer & Van Thiel, PC

  • Over 57 Years of Combined Legal Practice Experience
  • Available 24/7 By Appointment, Phone & Video Consult
  • Complimentary 30 Minute Family Law Consultations
  • Committed to Protecting Your Rights & Privacy
  • Always Serving You & Your Children’s Best Interests
  • Affordable & Friendly Family Law Divorce Lawyers

About Our Law FirmSchedule a Free Consultation

Our Practice Areas

For many years, Southern California has been able to count on Fischer & Van Thiel, LLP for all their Family’s Legal Services. In addition to our San Marcos Law Firm’s Office, our Family Law Practice Team Represents many Service Area Clients throughout the local San Diego County, California region.

Family Law - Child Custody, Support and Adoption

Family law covers a variety of different legal issues, including divorce, child custody, prenuptial agreements, adoption, and more. At Fischer & Van Thiel, LLP, we know how these problems can affect our clients. That’s why we think they should be handled by knowledgeable legal experts.

Divorce

Some individuals might consider avoiding hiring a divorce attorney in an effort to save money, but this choice can end up costing you more in the long run. Poorly handled cases or unwise decisions during the process can result in you losing assets or compromising your interests.

Civil Harassment

A civil harassment restraining order can be obtained when a person has suffered harassment by another party. It is a form of protection from potential harm. If you are seeking a civil harassment restraining order, Fischer & Van Thiel, LLP can help.

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is an extremely traumatic and difficult experience, but unfortunately, victims often feel as if it is impossible to escape. Thus, victims of domestic abuse need skilled legal representatives on their sides to defend their rights and interests and to take action to bring their abusers to justice.

Estate Planning

Although taking the time to draft or modify a will may seem unnecessary at this point in your life, it is essential to ensuring that your estate is handled according to your wishes after your demise.

Juvenile Court

Facing a juvenile court case can feel overwhelming, especially when it involves the future of your child. Whether your family is dealing with a criminal charge, a school disciplinary hearing, or a dependency issue, the outcome of these cases can have lasting effects on your child’s life.

If another party fails to uphold their part of a legal agreement or accuses you of not fulfilling your duties, it is important to have an experienced attorney on your side who can fully protect your rights and interests.

 

Paternity

Paternity is a more complex area of law than most people think. Not only can the question of paternity be personally important for a father-to-be, but it can also greatly affect legal issues such as child custody and child support in a divorce or separation.

 

Compassionate Family Law Attorneys. Ardent Divorce Law Representation.

Knowledgeable Expertise, Legal Guidance, and Skilled Representation throughout San Marcos & San Diego County.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Child Support Questions & Answers

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If you speak to the court and get permission to reschedule then no, it will not hurt your case.

However, if you just do not show up to a hearing, then that could have an adverse effect.

Communicate with the Court and things will be better for your case.

Is there a statute of limitations on owed child support?

Unless the mother has made a claim for child support with the welfare office or her local Department of child support services office, they cannot now collect from you on child support.

Since he is no longer a minor child now that he is emancipated, there are no obligations for child support. You can get tested to see if you are the father, but you do not have to.

If the state has paid out welfare for the child, and it turns out that you are the Father, there can be some potential liability there with having to pay back the state the money they paid out. If this is not an issue, then they cannot now ask you to pay for child support.

How can she get child support?

In addition to filing for dissolution, she can file a motion with the court requesting child and spousal support.

If she is unable to afford the services of an attorney, she can contact her local Department of Child Support Services (DCSS) for assistance.

Also, Family Law Facilitator offices located in many courthouses can assist her in preparing the necessary documents to request support.

Can both parents agree to stop child support?

Yes, both parties can sign a stipulation stating that no child support will be paid as long as the custodial parent is not receiving aid.

However, the court will retain jurisdiction over child support until the child reaches the age of majority.

This means that at any time, the custodial parent can go to court and request child support.


Our Blog

Latest Legal News & Articles


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Best Family Law Attorneys in San Marcos

Fischer & Van Thiel, PC.

We are a Compassionate Team of Family Law Attorneys in San Marcos who are here to help your family through difficult legal situations. Our Caring Family Law Divorce Law Staff is ready for your call and your FREE Consultation. Don't Wait, We Can Help. Call (760) 722-7669 Today.

Call (760) 722-7669 Schedule a Free Consultation