Parent sitting alone

How Stanislaus County Courts Can Address Parental Alienation in Child Custody Cases

Parental alienation is a growing concern in California family courts—especially in high-conflict custody cases. When one parent intentionally undermines the child’s relationship with the other, the long-term emotional harm can be significant. In Stanislaus County, family courts have tools available to address this behavior and protect the best interests of the child. At Scott Mitchell…

Police lights

Got a Traffic Ticket in San Joaquin County? You’re Not Alone—And You Still Have Options

Getting pulled over can feel like it comes out of nowhere. One moment, you’re driving—maybe just trying to make it to work or get through a long day on the road—and the next, you’re being handed a citation by a CHP officer on the side of Highway 99 or Interstate 5. It can be frustrating,…

Glass of beer, car keys and judge gavel on a wooden table

DUI with a Commercial Driver’s License in California? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL) in California, a DUI arrest can have serious and often career-ending consequences. Unlike regular drivers, CDL holders are held to stricter legal standards, and a conviction can mean losing not just your license, but your livelihood. At Scott Mitchell Law, we understand what’s at stake. Here’s what…

traffic stop

Cited for a Traffic Violation in Merced County? You Have Options

Getting pulled over and cited for a traffic violation—especially while driving through Merced County—can be stressful and even a little overwhelming. Whether you were stopped along Interstate 5 or Highway 99, a citation can feel sudden, frustrating, and sometimes even unfair. You might be asking yourself: “Will this raise my insurance?”“Could I lose my license?”“How…

Bankcrupty Chapter 7 text on Document form and Wooden Gavel on office desk.

Is Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Right for You? A Personal Guide to Getting a Fresh Start

Facing overwhelming debt can leave you feeling trapped, anxious, and unsure where to turn. If you’re drowning in credit card bills, medical debt, or facing collection lawsuits, Chapter 7 bankruptcy may offer the relief you need to reset your finances and get a true fresh start. But Chapter 7 is not a decision to take…

father with his kids sitting on the couch

When and How to Modify a Child Support Order in California: What Every Parent Needs to Know

Life changes—and sometimes, so should your child support order. Whether you’ve lost your job, taken a pay cut, your child’s needs have changed, or your custody schedule looks different than it used to, you might be wondering if it’s time to modify your California child support order. The answer? Maybe. But before you make a…

Wooden Figures Representing a Family Near a Gavel and Law Books

How to Obtain a 50/50 Custody Timeshare in California: A Parent’s Guide to Shared Parenting

Navigating a child custody case in California can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re trying to do what’s best for your child. Many parents come to us at Scott Mitchell Law with one main goal: to spend equal time with their children. In many cases, a 50/50 custody timeshare is not only possible but encouraged, as long…

Gavel with an alcoholic drink and handcuffs

What Signs May Indicate That I am Driving Under the Influence by a Police Officer?

You had a drink or two at your best friend’s party and are now heading home. You’re pretty certain you aren’t over the legal limit, but what if you happen to swerve over the line and get pulled over? Will the officer automatically suspect that you’re driving while intoxicated? The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration…