Lurkis, Joyce & Del Bove
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Lurkis, Joyce & Del Bove
Lurkis, Joyce & Del Bove, LLP are experienced family law attorneys in the San Francisco Bay area. Our sole mission is to support you and the best interests of your family with dedication, skill and compassion. Family law matters require a unique mix of compassion, understanding, legal skill and the ability to negotiate over very private, personal matters.

Lurkis, Joyce & Del Bove is dedicated to providing clients with the best possible legal representation, while at the same time being sympathetic to the emotional and financial strain brought on by disputes related to a client's family. The firm provides uniquely personal service to clients and extremely rapid response to client inquiries and requests.
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We understand that this may be one of the most confusing, exhausting, and financially difficult times in your life. The end of a relationship is often emotionally draining and stressful, especially when there are children involved.

The process can become exponentially more difficult when you also have to resolve dividing assets, determining child custody and child visitation, figuring out how to make ends meet and all the other facets that can accompany a divorce.Our law practice is uniquely dedicated to helping you navigate this process so that you can make informed decisions that ensure the best possible outcomes for you and your children.
Child custody & visitation may be among the most contentious and frustrating issues you ever have to go through, and there may be deep disagreement as to the best interests of your children. Child custody matters can be doubly difficult as they typically coincide with a divorce or legal separation.
We understand that divorce and paternity determinations can have a profound effect on your children's financial well-being. Child support determinations are typically a fundamental component of a divorce settlement or custody action, and such proceedings are often fraught with anxiety around the potential impact on a couple's children.
Spousal support determinations are often a core element of a divorce settlement, and the emotional toll of divorce proceedings can be compounded by uncertainty about the ability to maintain the standard of living to which one is accustomed.

Changes in marital status and living arrangements, the financial status of either party, and issues surrounding compliance with a spousal support order are all factors that can develop over time and lead to ongoing alimony issues which may need to be resolved.
We understand that paternity questions can have a huge impact on the quality of your child's life, and your ability to be a part of it. Most paternity actions are a formality that do not require court proceedings, where both parties are able to agree about parentage as a prerequisite to child custody and support proceedings.
Reviews (25)
Richard Hurwitz
Richard Hurwitz
Jan 19, 2022
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In my wildest dreams, I would have never imagined being faced with the prospect of a divorce. How ironic is it that I am now writing a review of my attorney? That is because this very positive experience bears noting. Simply put, no one under such circumstances could possibly be in better hands.
I confidently state that my representation could not have been any better than it was. Sean Joyce and his assistant Aaron are simple at the top of their games. I assure anyone considering Lurkis, Joyce & Del Bove - particularly Attorney Sean Patrick Joyce - that there is simply no one better to represent
Meghan Wahl
Meghan Wahl
Apr 29, 2021
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Sean is a EXCELLENT attorney. I interviewed several family law attorneys and he was by far the best. I was so relieved that I was able to retain him, he has never steered me wrong. He knows several approaches on how to go about winning your case. It depends on your style and what you want. He is able to be the lawyer you need.
LAW: Sean is an expert in family law. There are so many times when my ex's counsel didn't know the law or was trying to do something shady, and Sean was spot on. He makes sure that the judge and other attorney's do the right thing. He fights for you and knows exactly what
Paul Kaye
Paul Kaye
Jan 22, 2021
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I worked with Sean over my divorce, and he made a painful time far less painful. My separation from my ex became a bit acrimonious as we argued over money and property, but Sean kept my eye on the ball and led me through everything in a manner that was fair and honest. It was very important to me that I never had the feeling that I was "getting over" on my ex, nor that I was being taken advantage of, and Sean fit the bill for this perfectly.
Sean knows California divorce law really well, and in the situations where he might not know something exactly, he does't make something up; rather, he pauses
Niyati D.
Niyati D.
May 12, 2020
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I reached out to LJD with an inquiry and they responded immediately and earnestly - they didn't have expertise in the area I was looking for, but gave me recommendations of other folks who I could work with.
Ken H.
Ken H.
Feb 25, 2020
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Sean Joyce is extremely ethical and at the same time will provide you with the best information and help you while you are going through this unfortunate situation. He under promises and over delivers. I never expected to be a top client for a San Francisco Family Law Attorney but if you find yourself in my position, Sean Joyce is absolutely the way to go. Ethical, Honest and Empathetic of your situation. His style is intuitive and right. He shows you that nice goys finish first.
Raymond Soudahh
Raymond Soudahh
Jan 28, 2020
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Sean and Aaron were nothing less then amazing during my divorce. I retained Sean after my first attorney was not cutting it. Sean and his team stepped in and took control in a every aspect. They provided quality information, amazing communication and the best outcome possible. They didn't sugar coat anything which made it so much easier. If you need help in a family matter Sean and his team is where you need to go.
They turned every rock over so no surprises happened and gave me the best quality service and attention with the matter at hand. Again I cant thank them enough for what they got me
J. Mike S.
J. Mike S.
Jan 28, 2020
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Sean Joyce served as my advisor for a mediated (no lawyers formally representing at the divorce proceedings). He and his team were responsive, thoughtful, thorough and incredibly helpful. Divorce - at least in the case of my 25 year marriage - is hard. Sean was a pillar of help in getting me through to a positive and responsible closure. I recommend him highly.
Marcelo Martinez
Marcelo Martinez
Dec 27, 2019
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Since the moment my divorce started I have worked with Sean. Two times I had to do modifications to my parental agreement and Sean helped me on every occasion always looking for the best interest of my daughter and me. He also looked for ways that could be beneficial for me in terms of not over spending money. He is also fast responding to emails and calls. On one occasion, prior to my meeting with the mediator and my ex at 9:00AM, he called me at 8:30AM to make sure I was ok for the meeting and to reassure me that things were going to turn on my favor if I followed his advice. That call made the
Ray S.
Ray S.
Oct 09, 2019
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So much to say but first thing grade A service in every fashion. I had an attorney prior to Sean but what a difference. Sean was on point and new his stuff. A divorce in general is hard enough and dealing with your unreasonable ex and her family which made it worse, Sean took the cake. Sean and Aaron his assistant were on top of everything. To make sure I was covered and protected at all times Sean and Aaron always got back to me and gave me all my options. I never had to wonder if they knew I knew.

I can't say enough about what an amazing job they did with a horrible situation. Sean
Stephanie The Stylist
Stephanie The Stylist
Aug 16, 2019
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Pragmatic, kind, responsive & articulate are just a few words that come to mind when I describe Sean Joyce. I feel very grateful to have Sean represent me as I navigate through the most difficult time in my life. He is upfront with costs and does not over promise what he cannot guarantee. He is very knowledgeable of the court system and most importantly has given me a sense of peace around the unknown.
Stephanie E.
Stephanie E.
Feb 09, 2019
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My daughter was a 7 month nursing infant when I left my toxic marriage and moved 3 hours north of SF. I was still maintaining a thriving business both completely overwhelmed and sleep deprived.
My ex and I choose the mediation route for our divorce. A few months into the the process I realized that mediation is not for everyone. I needed help with the paperwork. I really needed guidance on navigating through what seemed like perpetual impending doom. I needed help understanding what I was signing and what everything actually meant. I needed to feel confident!
THIS was my biggest takeaway
Lia W.
Lia W.
Jun 29, 2018
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Sean Joyce is the best. He won a difficult change of venue case for me.

He never over promised anything. Rather, he told me what my odds were for winning my case. When I spoke with him, he helped me to understand what was going on with my case. He never used legal jargon that I couldn't understand. He's a good guy, and I highly recommend him.
Liam C.
Liam C.
Oct 10, 2017
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Sean is definitely the person you want on your side in any divorce proceeding. I have a law degree so initially tried to manage this process on my own and am so happy that I finally came to my senses. Sean is incredibly knowledgeable, well respected, responsive and focuses on the important issues so that he doesn't rack up fees unnecessarily. He does a great job in court and is an excellent advocate for his clients. I cannot recommend Sean highly enough and feel incredibly fortunate to have found such a great guy to help me through what can be a very difficult process.
Ana G.
Ana G.
Jan 26, 2017
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Sean has been incredible at handling my case. He is one of the most honest people I have met and will work hard for you. His rates are beyond reasonable and he does everything in his power to make your time spent with him as efficient as possible. He will be honest, upfront, and no-nonsense. Will tell you what his expectations will be depending on the case and your chances of winning etc. He doesn't charge needless amounts of fees and will work to make those fees as less as he can humanly make them. He replies to emails, phone calls, texts whatever it is ...he's on top of it. I would
Erin Billy
Erin Billy
Jan 21, 2017
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Sean is awesome! We had a few small matters for him to help us with, and he took care of us quickly and efficiently, and keeping us updated every step of the way. I felt like he was our true advocate.
I especially appreciated Sean's intelligence, honesty, professionalism, experience, and of course, the outcome. He's a 'straight-shooter' kind of guy--honest about possible outcomes and what he can and cannot do, and super friendly, supportive, and non-judgmental.
He's also been extremely helpful in other matters as well--he's referred me to other colleagues he knows personally (and don't charge
P. Harris
P. Harris
Jun 20, 2016
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I was very happy indeed with the service provided by Sean (and also his paralegal Aaron). He was always very responsive, extremely knowledgeable and always had time for me. Sean helped me through my divorce in a cost efficient manner which I very much appreciated. I would absolutely recommend him to anyone going through the same thing.
Artemis C.
Artemis C.
Apr 03, 2015
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I just had a great experience with an attorney. How often does THAT happen? i am searching for a divorce attorney. Sean immediately responded to my online inquiry (after 9 pm!) and we set up a phone appointment. After patiently hearing my concerns he said that he probably was not the ideal lawyer for my case and offered to refer me. He gave me excellent advice and assistance, gratis.
He listened and offered relevant information. Just wish he WAS the right one.
Pouria M.
Pouria M.
Jan 24, 2014
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Few things really stand out about Sean aside from his great personality;
Ability to listen, analyze and offer a practical solution on the spot and not just repeating boring legal stuff
His dedicated way of reporting and updating clients.
I also found him super responsive specially through emails. My queries were responded within and hour and if follow up was required, Sean would take care of all of it.
Thanks Sean for your help with my case.
Pouria
Jm T.
Jm T.
Jun 17, 2013
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Sean Joyce is a very intelligent and savvy lawyer. Moreover, he is exceptionally caring and dedicates himself to getting the best outcome for his clients. I felt fully supported by Sean in my case and he went above and beyond to win our case. You are in great hands with Sean.
Charlotte J.
Charlotte J.
Aug 01, 2012
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Five stars will never be enough. Pull down the constellations because Sean is the Best. Lawyer. Ever. I contacted Sean after trying to resolve my custody issue for over a year in mediation and private talks with my Ex. I was broke, frustrated and more scared than I can begin to describe.

First and foremost...Sean was *kind*. He listened to me, explained my options clearly and compassionately, never misled me with inflated promises or expectations. Sean kept my feet firmly on the ground as he walked me through an incredibly scary process that included a custody evaluation. My knees were
Josh C.
Josh C.
Mar 17, 2012
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Sean was my defense lawyer in the case of a frivolous civil restraining order. He was one of many lawyers that I contacted for this case but because of his quick response time during the initial contact period, I decided to go with Sean.

Our first call and in-person meeting were both great experiences for my first dealings with a lawyer. He was quick to pick up on the basics of the case and, when we met face-to-face, his confidence and calm demeanor quickly put me at ease. He was familiar with cases of this nature and knew all policies and procedures that were necessary.

Sean was always
Kevin F.
Kevin F.
Apr 14, 2011
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I'm writing this before even knowing the outcome of my case because I don't want the review to be biased on the "resolution".

I can tell you that if I haven't talked to ALL Civil/Family lawyers in SF, I have talked to 90% of them. I even called the state bar to set me up with the "best" attorney for my case and the person they set me up with started lecturing me without even having read the case...

Sean is just a cool guy. It just happens that he is also an amazing lawyer. He was completely honest about the process, the cost involved, and took time to first
Holly H.
Holly H.
Mar 08, 2011
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Sean was a great stabalizing support during a stressful and upsetting time. I would recommend his services to anyone! He was always available to me (we corresponded quite a lot via email as he patiently answered all of my questions, no matter how small or insignificant they were.) He's very thorough and set realistic expectations for me, and all went SO smoothly! He's a gem, and though I hope I don't need the services of a lawyer in the future, he's the guy I'll call if I ever do!
O. C. R.
O. C. R.
Dec 03, 2010
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I hired Sean initially for a restraining order case and then for child custody case right after. Not only was Sean very professional, He was very considerate of my financial needs. His retainer fees were very affordable and his legal services were amazing. I accomplished everything I wanted. I was very stressed at first, but after working with Sean I felt a burden lifted of my shoulders. Before I retained Sean I interviewed 3 other sf law firms and I am so glad I want with him. If you need a great family law attorney make sure you hire Sean Patrick Joyce.. He was my last appointment and I can tell
Monty W.
Monty W.
Aug 05, 2010
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I hired Sean Joyce for a pretty simple eviction case. He was very knowledgeable, careful and thorough and everything went smoothly. He did a great job of explaining the process at the beginning, keeping me updated along the way and being very polite and clear. Legal services are never cheap, but his prices and billing seemed reasonable. I would definitely hire him again if I need an attorney.