Fresno’s divorce landscape feels very different from California’s coastal cities. Here, cases move through the Fresno County Superior Court with a strong emphasis on practicality, judicial efficiency, and local credibility. In 2026, divorce in Fresno is shaped by two forces working together: California’s statewide procedural reforms and the Central Valley’s preference for straightforward, no-nonsense advocacy.
For many families, divorce in Fresno involves long-term marriages, real property, agricultural or family-owned businesses, and deeply personal custody disputes. Judges expect lawyers to know the local courtroom culture, prepare clean disclosures, and avoid unnecessary posturing. Outcomes are often decided quietly—through preparation and negotiation—rather than dramatic trial moments.
The attorneys listed below were selected based on:
- Consistent practice in Fresno County Superior Court
- Strong peer reviews and 2026 local rankings
- Demonstrated handling of custody, property, and support disputes
- Reputation with Fresno judges for preparedness and professionalism
Advertising volume was not considered. Local courtroom credibility was.
1. Jennifer S. Morrison — Law Offices of Jennifer S. Morrison
- Address: 776 E Shaw Ave Suite 204, Fresno, CA 93710, United States
- Phone: +15592254300
With over 25 years of Central Valley experience, Jennifer Morrison is known for direct communication and aggressive courtroom advocacy. Her responsiveness sets her apart in a system where delays are common.
- Reputation: Tenacious, prepared, and highly responsive
- Specialty: High-asset division, contested custody, complex support
2. Zeppy Attashian — Law Office of Zeppy Attashian, PC
- Address: 225 W Shaw Ave #101, Fresno, CA 93704, United Statess
- Phone: +15592333355
Widely regarded as both a compassionate listener and a tough negotiator, Zeppy Attashian encourages resolution where possible but is fully capable of litigation when needed.
- Reputation: Honest, realistic, and settlement-focused
- Specialty: Collaborative divorce, restraining orders, paternity
3. Lerandeau & Lerandeau LLP — Antoinette & Paul Lerandeau
- Address: 265 E River Park Cir #490, Fresno, CA 93720, United States
- Phone: +15592302600
With more than 60 years of combined experience, the Lerandeaus are among the most respected family-law practitioners in Fresno. They frequently handle the Valley’s most complex financial divorces.
- Reputation: Principled, seasoned, and deeply trusted
- Specialty: Sophisticated property division, long-term spousal support
4. Leslie A. Soley — Leslie A. Soley, Attorney at Law
- Address: 907 Santa Fe Ave STE 101, Fresno, CA 93721, United States
- Phone: +15592654292
Operating from downtown Fresno, Leslie Soley is known for her mediation-first philosophy. She is often chosen by families seeking resolution without escalating conflict.
- Reputation: Compassionate and solution-oriented
- Specialty: Mediation, adoption, custody modifications
5. Amanda K. Moran — Moran Law Firm
- Address: 1330 L St suite a, Fresno, CA 93721, United States
- Phone: +15592642688
Recognized as a 2026 Rising Star, Amanda Moran has quickly earned trust for her professionalism and familiarity with Fresno judges. Clients often note her calming presence during stressful proceedings.
- Reputation: Dependable, knowledgeable, and reassuring
- Specialty: Divorce, custody, and asset division
Types of Divorce Cases These Lawyers Handle
- High-asset and long-term marriages
- Child custody and parenting-time disputes
- Spousal and child support litigation
- Agricultural and family-business property division
- Domestic violence restraining orders
- Mediation and collaborative divorce
How to Choose the Best Divorce Lawyer in Fresno
Fresno judges value substance over showmanship. The best lawyer here understands local expectations, prepares thorough disclosures, and knows when negotiation is more effective than trial. Ask how your lawyer handles Joint Petitions, financial disclosures, and custody mediation—those are the pressure points in Fresno County.
Cost of Hiring a Divorce Lawyer in Fresno
- Hourly rates: $250 – $550+
Initial retainers:
- Uncontested / Joint Petition: $3,500 – $6,000
- Moderate conflict: $6,000 – $12,000
- High-conflict or custody litigation: $12,000 – $25,000+
Experts (if required):
- Business or property valuation: $4,000 – $20,000+
- Custody evaluator: $3,000 – $8,000+
- Forensic accountant: $200 – $450/hour
Conclusion
Divorce in Fresno in 2026 is defined by local knowledge, preparation, and credibility. The law now provides tools to reduce conflict, but only for those who use them correctly. Whether your case involves custody, complex property, or long-term support, the lawyer you choose will shape the outcome long before trial.
The attorneys listed above represent Fresno’s most trusted paths—from firm courtroom advocacy to mediation-driven resolution. In a court system that rewards clarity over conflict, choosing the right counsel is decisive.
FAQs
Q1. Can we use the Joint Petition if we own farmland or a home?
Ans: Yes. There are no asset limits under SB 1427.
Q2. Are Fresno judges strict about disclosures?
Ans: Yes. Incomplete disclosures frequently derail cases.
Q3. Does Fresno favor mediation?
Ans: Strongly, especially in custody matters.
Q4. Is spousal support automatic in long marriages?
Ans: No. Duration and amount depend on multiple statutory factors.
Q5. Can custody cases still go to trial?
Ans: Yes, but courts expect meaningful settlement attempts first.
