About Paul D.
Paul D. Spear is a lawyer whose academic path spans two California institutions and more than two decades between degrees. He studied economics at the University of California, Los Angeles, earning a B.A. in 1985. He later completed his legal education at the University of West Los Angeles, receiving his J.D. in 2007.
Spear is admitted to practice before the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. His credential as a Certified Family Law Specialist from the State Bar of California marks a formal recognition of experience in family law matters. That certification is awarded to attorneys who meet specific experience, education and testing requirements in family law.
Throughout his career he has concentrated on disputes that reach family courts and federal filings where appellate practice is required. He handles cases that typically involve divorce, child custody and support, spousal support, and the division of assets. He works in both contested and negotiated settings and appears in hearings and trials when necessary.
Those who work in family law must manage legal issues and human ones. Spear’s practice requires attention to procedural detail and an ability to explain options to clients facing emotionally charged decisions. He prepares pleadings, represents clients at hearings and mediations, and manages the discovery that family law matters often demand.
His education at UCLA in economics informs how he approaches financial issues in family cases. The J.D. from the University of West Los Angeles provided the legal training that shaped his courtroom practice. The combination of those academic experiences supports work on complex property division and support calculations.
Colleagues and opposing counsel know him for methodical preparation and steady courtroom demeanor. He has handled matters that require both litigation and negotiated settlements. He is comfortable taking cases through trial and addressing legal questions on appeal in the Ninth Circuit.
In recent years his work has centered on family law practice in California courts and related appellate matters. He maintains his certification as a Family Law Specialist and continues to represent clients in divorce, custody, support and related family law proceedings. His current practice focuses on family law and appellate work in the Ninth Circuit and California state courts.
