> [!tip] My personal working space > The final version of this page is at https://atharkhan.com/glossary/2030-attorney-fees/ [[Cal. Fam. Code § 2030]] concerns access to [[Attorney|legal representation]] in dissolution, legal-separation and nullity proceedings, including related proceedings after judgment. The court makes findings about whether an award is appropriate, disparity in access to funds for counsel, and the ability of one party to pay for representation of both. If the findings demonstrate disparity in access and ability to pay, the court must make a fee order. This is broader than a comparison of salaries alone. > [!info] Amount and relative circumstances > [[Cal. Fam. Code § 2032]] requires a just and reasonable award under the parties’ relative circumstances. Having some funds to pay one’s lawyer is not itself a bar. A request does not automatically entitle a party to every fee charged. Section 2030 permits fees for services or costs incurred before or after commencement, and augmentation or modification as reasonably necessary. An unrepresented party may request fees to obtain counsel when the statutory conditions are met. Financial information matters; see [[Income and Expense Declaration (FL-150)]]. Review current filing instructions for all required papers. Compare [[271 Sanctions]], which address conduct, and [[How to find Family Law Assistance at No Cost or Reduced Cost]] for other paths to assistance. Sources: [Family Code section 2030](https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=FAM&sectionNum=2030.) and [section 2032](https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=FAM&sectionNum=2032.), California Legislative Information. Checked October 24, 2026.