One of the important steps in finalizing a divorce is determining how to divide property between the two spouses. In some cases, the division of property can be simple and straightforward. However, it’s possible for complications to arise. It can be helpful to understand the top five ways to protect your assets during a divorce in California to avoid these situations.
Going through a divorce can be a daunting experience, even if you and your spouse agree on everything. Divorce, or dissolution, is one of three ways to end a marriage or domestic partnership in California, and it can feel overwhelming to go through the process. One of the first questions you may ask yourself is, “Do I have to go to court to get a divorce in California?”
The short answer is no. You do not have to go to court to get divorced in California if the case is uncontested. This means both spouses agree on all aspects of the divorce, including child support, custody, property division, spousal support, and any other relevant factors pertaining to your relationship.
A partner in a long-term unmarried relationship may question their eligibility for financial support like alimony upon the relationship’s termination. California refers to financial support for unmarried partners as palimony. Courts do not automatically award palimony like they do spousal support, and establishing entitlement to palimony in California requires complex legal evidence.
Individuals from long-term, non-marital relationships need to understand California’s palimony laws to protect their financial security after separation.
The process of divorce presents unique challenges for married couples of all ages, yet it can be more complex for older couples who pursue what is known as a “gray divorce.” During a gray divorce, older adults face distinct legal and financial situations when they decide to end a long-term marriage due to reasons like growing apart or infidelity. Understanding the legal considerations for divorcing later in life is essential.
Older couples who initiate divorce must understand California’s divorce laws regarding retirement account division and healthcare and estate planning to make knowledgeable decisions.
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Leaving an abusive spouse through divorce represents one of life’s most challenging and hazardous decisions. Any type of abuse becomes more dangerous when the victim decides to leave the abusive situation. California provides legal protections and resources that assist individuals in navigating this process with maximum safety. Below are some safety tips when divorcing an abusive spouse in California.
Blended families experiencing a divorce can face unique challenges when it comes to child custody and support. All the factors normally considered, such as custody arrangements and who pays child support, may not be as straightforward as they seem in standard divorce cases due to the fact that stepparents do not share the same legal responsibilities as biological parents.
At Bickford Blado & Botros, we want to break down some of the important points when it comes to child custody and support for stepparents. You need answers from how courts view your relationship with your stepchildren to who’s responsible for child support.
In California, ‘legal separation’ means that a married couple can live independently without fully and formally dissolving their marriage. There are some benefits and disadvantages to obtaining a legal separation. A seasoned attorney who is familiar with legal separation cases can further discuss all options for dissolving a relationship.
When considering filing for a divorce in California, setting yourself up for success right from the start is crucial. You might want to take a few important steps before you file. A knowledgeable California family law attorney who is familiar with divorce matters like yours can be invaluable throughout the entire process.
Spousal support, or alimony, isn’t mandatory following a California divorce. Yet, divorce is a complicated process, and if one partner makes more money than the other, a California court may require alimony payments. Post-divorce settlements may call for spousal support that impacts your finances over the long term. A knowledgeable family law attorney can help discuss specific spousal support requirements in California.
Moving with a child if you’re divorced is no easy task, especially in California. If the parenting plan is permanent, and you are planning to move to another state, you must get permission from the court. Judges take into account a child’s best interests for any decision that affects them, including their relationship with the other parent.
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San Diego Divorce Attorneys Blog