Julie M. Maneker, Esq.

Julie M. Maneker, Esq. Divorce with Dignity– Orange County

740 S. Harbor Blvd., #1085
Santa Ana, CA 92704

P: 714-251-6626

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Meet Julie M. Maneker

Hi! I’m Julie Maneker, an attorney and neutral divorce facilitator and mediator. Despite having been an attorney for over 24 years, when it came to the time in my life when I needed to leave my marriage, I was completely lost. I already knew divorce attorneys would be expensive, especially in a major city, because they make their living by “doing the maximum,” oftentimes costing their clients untold thousands of dollars by creating even more legal conflict, in addition to the emotional conflict inherent in the divorce itself. Aside from the cost, I also didn’t want a long, emotionally-charged and exhausting divorce proceeding. That’s why I chose Divorce with Dignity- San Francisco for my own divorce. They provided us with a calm, clear path toward an amicable resolution to our differences without court involvement. This experience was the impetus for me to provide individuals and couples with an amicable and holistic approach to their own divorce with Divorce with Dignity- Orange County. I deeply understand how this process can be painful and confusing, and I am grateful to those who have entrusted me to guide them through such a sensitive time in their lives.

Divorce with Dignity approaches divorce from a holistic and amicable standpoint, placing emphasis on active participation of both parties, ensuring that each side feels safe, heard and involved in all decisions, thus avoiding court intervention. If you are seeking a California licensed attorney, not representing either party, to serve as a neutral facilitator and mediator for your divorce, I’m happy to assist you with this process. I am also happy to assist with the preparation of forms and filings to finalize your divorce.

Strategic. Compassionate. Results-Driven.

Julie M. Maneker is an attorney known for her clear communication, strategic thinking, and steady guidance. Clients often describe her as compassionate, detail-oriented, and responsive — someone who:

  • Guides individuals and couples toward real solutions that align with their current and future needs

  • Takes the time to understand your situation before advising next steps, ensuring that all decisions remain in your hands

  • Explains legal options in a clear, straightforward way

  • Approaches each matter with understanding, professionalism and care

Julie brings over 24 years of legal experience, enhancing her ability to analyze complex legal issues and effectively assist couples making challenging decisions for themselves and their families.  

She understands first-hand that a divorce process can feel overwhelming, and she is committed to providing steady support and informed guidance throughout the process.

If you’re seeking knowledgeable representation paired with a calm, thoughtful approach, she’s here to help.

What We Can Work Through Together In Mediation

  • Parenting plans and schedules
  • Division of property and financial agreements
  • Child and/or spousal support discussions
  • Co-parenting communication tools and problem-solving
  • Post-divorce adjustments and agreements

Additional Services

When appropriate, I also offer support outside the mediation process, including:

  • Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements

  • Filings with the Court

  • Coordination with professional specialists

  • Collaboration with family law attorneys

  • Estate planning for family protection

Every family is unique. Your solution should be too.

 

 

How the Divorce with Dignity Path Serves You

Every family deserves a process that feels supported, organized, and human. You choose the level of guidance that fits where you are today — and I stay alongside you with clarity, steady support, and the information you need to make the best decisions for you and your family. 

1️⃣ Paperwork Support For Those Already in Agreement

For couples who are already in agreement, I provide neutral support to help you prepare the required court forms to facilitate your divorce, in addition to taking the necessary steps of filing the paperwork and ensuring all applicable laws are followed so you are not stuck guessing what happens next.

2️⃣ Mediation Only

If decisions still need to be made, I facilitate a calm, structured path to help you communicate productively and reach meaningful agreements that serve all involved.  

We work through the topics that matter most — asset division, co-parenting plans, financial support both now and in the future, and practical tools to navigate difficult discussions that might arise post-divorce, with a focus on reducing conflict and building an agreement that works for everyone.

3️⃣ Combined Mediation + Paperwork

Most families prefer an all-inclusive path, which includes both a holistic and neutral approach toward mediating important issues, as well as the preparation, filing and service of court forms, taking the guesswork out and replacing it with clarity and the assurance it is done correctly.  

From our first conversation to final Judgment, you will get responsive communication, reliable information, and a steady guide through each phase.

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More Than Documents – A Supported Holistic Process

No matter your needs, you’ll receive a process that is clear, efficient and human in the process, including

  • Structured steps to maintain momentum and reduce stress
  • Careful consideration and guidance through financial and logistical decisions
  • Child-centered planning that prioritizes stability
  • Connection to trusted, specialized support when helpful, such as therapists, financial professionals, attorneys, and advocates for disabled parents and children.  
  • Consistent communication and check-ins so you’re never wondering what happens next

You will never be handed a stack of papers and sent on your way — this is a supported transition, not a transactional one.

You stay in control — with clarity, informed guidance, and real support from beginning to end.

Specialties

  • Out-of-court divorce facilitation from a licensed attorney

  • Neutral divorce mediation

  • Marital Settlement Agreements

  • Legal guidance for divorcing couples

  • Co-Parenting plans

  • Asset division

  • Estate planning

More about Julie

EDUCATION:


New College of California School of Law, San Francisco, CA.

EXPERIENCE:

 

Julie Maneker is a California-licensed attorney with over 24 years of legal experience who now serves as a neutral divorce facilitator and mediator. Julie brings both professional expertise and deep empathy to help couples resolve their divorce amicably, efficiently, and with dignity—without unnecessary conflict or court involvement.

FUN FACTS ABOUT Julie M:

A dedicated animal advocate, Julie enjoys volunteering her legal services for those involved in litigation with respect to their pets, as well as fundraising for various animal rescue organizations.

FAQs

 

What does it mean that Julie is a neutral divorce facilitator and mediator?

As a neutral facilitator and mediator, Julie does not represent either spouse individually. Instead, she works with both parties together to help them reach fair, informed agreements on all aspects of their divorce, including finances, property division, and parenting arrangements.

What is Divorce with Dignity, and how is it different from a traditional divorce process?

Divorce with Dignity is an out-of-court process, which facilitates an amicable divorce focusing on cooperation, transparency, and mutual respect. Unlike traditional litigation, the Divorce with Dignity path avoids emotional court battles and excessive legal fees by encouraging both parties to actively participate in decision-making with the attorney-led guidance of a divorce facilitator and neutral facilitator.

Do I need to go to court if I choose Divorce with Dignity?

In most cases, court appearances are avoided. The process is designed to resolve all issues outside of court, with the final agreement submitted for approval. This helps reduce stress, cost, and time while maintaining privacy and control over the outcome.

Is Divorce with Dignity right for my situation?

Divorce with Dignity is well-suited for couples seeking a respectful, low-conflict approach to divorce, including uncontested or relatively amicable situations. It is especially helpful for those who want to avoid lengthy court proceedings and prioritize clear communication and thoughtful decision-making.

Contact Julie M.

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