169. Divorce Advice From Celebrity Attorneys and Judges

When you’re in the middle of a divorce, one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make is hiring the right attorney. In this powerhouse episode of How Not to Suck at Divorce, hosts Andrea Rappaport (comedian) and Morgan Stogsdill (head of family law at the largest firm in the U.S.) sit down in Los Angeles with celebrity divorce attorneys and judges to uncover what really matters when it comes to navigating high-stakes cases.

From avoiding the “shark attorney” trap to protecting your kids and learning how to negotiate like a pro, this episode is full of real talk and insider advice. Oh, and yes—we spill some behind-the-scenes tea from our LA adventure, hotel fiascos included.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode 🎧

• Why hiring the wrong lawyer can ruin your case
• (and why “sharks” only guarantee that lawyers win—not clients).
• What judges look for when deciding if an attorney is a good fit for your case.
• The “beauty pageant” of divorce attorneys — and how to shop smart without rushing.
• Communication mistakes that cost thousands, like adding one little jab (“jerk”) to an otherwise harmless text.
• How to protect your kids from being dragged into custody disputes or used as messengers.
• Negotiation secrets: why making the first offer usually leads to a better deal.
• The role of forensic accountants and when you really need one.
• Celebrity divorce lessons: what everyday people can learn from the way stars protect their privacy and brand.

Expert Voices in This Episode

You’ll hear from some of the most respected celebrity divorce attorneys and judges in Los Angeles, including:

• Chris Melcher – High-profile family law attorney known for representing celebrities.

Celebrity lawyer Christopher C. Melcher is ranked as a best family law attorney in California 2023 (Band 1 Chambers High Net Worth) and is a partner of top family law firm Walzer Melcher Yoda

• Commissioner Gretchen Taylor – Hon. Judge bringing empathy and sharp insights from the bench.

Prior to her tenure on the Los Angeles Superior Court and the Riverside Superior Court, Hon. Gretchen W. Taylor, a Certified Family Law Specialist since 1991, was a successful Beverly Hills Family Law attorney for 18 years.

• Judge Dianna Gold-Saltman – Family law judge offering candid advice on communication and expectations.

Hon. Dianna Gould-Saltman (Ret.) is a well-respected family law attorney and was a Los Angeles Superior Court judge. In her first year as a private neutral, Judge Gould-Saltman was named one of 24 leading family law private judges in the State of California by Doyle’s Guide.

• Steve Mindel – Renowned attorney breaking down negotiation, financial pitfalls, and the psychology of divorce.

With over 30 years of experience in family law, Steven A. Mindel is the Managing and Founding Partner of FMBK and a Certified Family Law Specialist*, dividing his time between leading one of Southern California’s premier family law firms and representing clients in complex matters. 

Why This Episode Matters

Most people panic-hire the first lawyer they meet. But the right attorney won’t just tell you what you want to hear—they’ll push back, set realistic expectations, and protect your long-term stability. This episode arms you with the questions to ask, the red flags to spot, and the strategies that save time, money, and your sanity.

Resources & Links Mentioned

• Divorce Crash Course → A step-by-step guide on hiring the right attorney and avoiding costly mistakes. www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com

"You Got This and We Got You" Hats! https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/gifts

• Soberlink → Alcohol monitoring to keep kids safe during parenting time. soberlink.com/notsuck
• Levitt Quinn- The services that they offer in LA county help so many who otherwise would not have access to legal representation  https://levittquinn.org/

Our Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck20

And last, but not least, please go check out the FABULOUS SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills, tell them How Not to Suck at Divorce podcast sent you! They'll be extra nice!

SLS Beverly Hills

👉 Listen now to hear what celebrity judges and attorneys want you to know about divorce—and how to avoid the biggest mistakes.

Friends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.

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Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorce

Follow Andrea: @theandrearappaport

Follow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicago