California Senate Bill (SB1427) – Key Policy Architect

California Senate Bill 1427 modernizes the divorce process by introducing a new joint petition process option for spouses who wish to proceed cooperatively. SB 1427 amends Family Code Sections 2330 and 2331, and adds Family Code Section 2342.5.  Effective January 1, 2026, these new statutory provisions allow both parties to file together as joint petitioners, which eliminates the traditional petitioner/respondent adversarial dynamic and - for the first time in California - encourages couples to partner in their divorce proceedings. This new pathway expands access to a more respectful, efficient, and non-adversarial process. By prioritizing collaboration over conflict, the new joint petition process represents a meaningful shift toward a more humane and forward-thinking approach to family law in California.

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RECOGNITION 

• EUREKA AWARD, Collaborative Practice of California (CPCAL 2025)

• Straus Institute Entrance Fellowship (Pepperdine University)​

• Wendy Landes Recognition Award for Excellence in Family Law Dispute Resolution Studies (California State Bar, Family Law Section)​

• CALI Award for Advanced Mediation Seminar (Pepperdine University)