Business Details
43 Years
experience
Trusted Family Law Representation in Encino
Cutter & Lax, Attorneys At Law brings over three decades of dedicated legal experience to families navigating complex family law matters in the San Fernando Valley. Our firm specializes in divorce, child custody, spousal support, adoption, and domestic violence cases, offering tailored solutions grounded in deep legal expertise and compassionate advocacy. With board-certified attorneys and a proven track record of successful outcomes, we prioritize client needs through personalized representation and strategic counsel. Our team, led by seasoned professionals like Matthew E. Lax, combines courtroom prowess with mediation skills to resolve disputes efficiently while safeguarding clients' rights.Recognized for accessibility and responsiveness, we provide transparent communication and practical guidance throughout every legal challenge. Serving communities in Sherman Oaks, Encino, Van Nuys, Studio City, and beyond, we remain committed to delivering justice with integrity and empathy. Our multilingual capabilities and focus on military divorce cases further distinguish our service offerings, ensuring clients from diverse backgrounds receive culturally competent representation. With numerous testimonials highlighting our dedication to favorable settlements and client satisfaction, we continue to build trust as a cornerstone of our practice.
Services
Divorce Representation
Child Custody
Spousal Support
Adoption Services
Domestic Violence Cases
Military Divorce
Paternity Establishment
Mediation Services
Restraining Orders
Property Division
Details
- Year established: 1983
Highlights and features
- We offer board-certified family law specialists with decades of courtroom experience.
- Our attorneys provide personalized legal strategies tailored to each client's unique situation.
- Proven track record of successful outcomes in complex divorce and custody cases.
- Multilingual support for Spanish-speaking clients navigating family law matters.
- Recognized for responsive communication and client-focused advocacy by satisfied clients.
Associations and certifications
- State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization in Family Law
What people say
Excellent counsel representation
Knowledgeable and helpful
Generous settlement achieved
Responsive and listened
Intelligent and thorough
Services
Divorce Representation
Our firm provides comprehensive divorce legal services, handling contested and uncontested cases with strategic courtroom advocacy and mediation expertise. We address property division, alimony, and child-related matters while protecting client interests. With decades of experience in California family law, we guide clients through complex proceedings with transparent communication and tailored legal strategies.
Child Custody
We advocate for fair child custody arrangements that prioritize children's well-being while protecting parental rights. Our attorneys handle custody modifications, visitation disputes, and relocation cases with sensitivity to family dynamics. Using collaborative approaches and litigation when necessary, we create workable solutions for co-parenting challenges in San Fernando Valley communities.
Spousal Support
Our team manages spousal support matters, including temporary and long-term arrangements. We analyze financial factors, employment capabilities, and lifestyle considerations to pursue equitable outcomes. With courtroom experience in alimony determinations, we help clients understand their rights and obligations under California's family support laws.
Military Divorce
Specialized representation for military personnel and spouses navigating divorce proceedings. We address unique challenges including jurisdictional issues, pension division, and service-related benefits protection. Our attorneys understand military culture and apply specific legal frameworks to safeguard clients' rights during divorce proceedings.
Domestic Violence Cases
We provide urgent legal protection for domestic violence victims through restraining orders and emergency custody modifications. Our attorneys handle evidence presentation in court while connecting clients with community resources. We prioritize client safety through strategic legal action and compassionate support during sensitive proceedings.
People
Matthew E. Lax
Attorney
Board-certified family law specialist with 20+ years' experience. Graduated from Whittier Law School, admitted to California State and Federal courts. Member of San Fernando Valley Bar Association's Family Law Committee and volunteer mediator at local courthouses.
Nelson Frederic Cutter
Retired Attorney
30-year legal veteran specializing in family law. Graduated from Pepperdine School of Law in 1983. Former Daily Settlement Officer with extensive experience in complex divorce proceedings and child custody matters before retiring from active practice.
Questions
What types of family law cases do you handle?
We handle all aspects of family law including divorce, child custody, spousal support, adoption, domestic violence cases, and military divorce proceedings in California courts.
How do you approach child custody disputes?
We prioritize children's best interests while protecting parental rights through mediation and litigation, creating workable co-parenting arrangements tailored to each family's unique circumstances.
Can you help with urgent domestic violence situations?
Yes, we provide immediate legal protection through restraining orders and emergency custody modifications while connecting clients with necessary community resources and support services.
What makes your firm different for military divorces?
Our attorneys have specialized experience with military-specific issues including pension division, jurisdictional challenges, and protecting service members' rights under federal and California laws.
How are attorney fees structured?
We offer transparent fee structures with initial consultations to discuss case specifics. Payment plans may be available depending on case complexity and client circumstances.
Do you offer mediation services?
Yes, our certified mediators help resolve disputes amicably through alternative dispute resolution while preparing for litigation if necessary to protect client interests.
