Ellen Winick Stross, Child Custody Attorney in San Mateo, California

Ellen concentrates on child custody, child support, family law, and real estate. Each area below outlines the kind of case Ellen handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Child Custody

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• Child Support

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• Family Law

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• Real Estate

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Ellen's primary office is at 155 Bovet Road, Suite 202, San Mateo, CA, 94402. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new child custody attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Ellen usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Ellen discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in child custody practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Ellen for a child custody case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Ellen walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Ellen offer a free consultation?

  Ellen charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Ellen's office. Some child custody attorneys offer free consults — check Ellen's current terms during booking.

• How long do child custody cases in California typically take?

  Simple child custody matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Ellen gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Ellen take my case if I'm outside San Mateo?

  Ellen is licensed in California. Matters governed by California law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Ellen will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Ellen?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Ellen will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Ellen accepting new child custody clients right now?

  Ellen's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.