What Exactly Is a ‘Legal Separation’ in California?
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.
San Diego Divorce Attorneys Blog


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.
Family violence is terrible, particularly in relation to child custody. Children’s safety and welfare are never weighed against custody claims in California courts. Evidence of abuse can strongly sway these decisions, and, in some cases, limited or monitored visitation is given to the abusive parent.
Divorce can be a tense and painful affair, especially when it’s a high-stakes divorce with disputes over property, child custody, or child support. Mediation can be a solution to litigation, but in California, it’s about getting along and being open. Mediators help divorcing couples reach an agreement that is right for both of them, and the mediation process saves both time and money.
Attorney-client privilege is a foundational aspect of legal representation that allows clients to share information with their attorneys in confidence. In family law cases that often involve sensitive issues like child custody, allegations of abuse, and estate division, understanding this privilege can help clients navigate their cases effectively.
In California, divorce proceedings can have significant impacts on family-owned businesses. The state’s community property laws dictate that marital property be divided equitably between both spouses. If both parties cannot agree to the division of a family business, the courts may get involved and order that the business be liquidated.
Child custody and visitation rights for unmarried parents in California can be complex and often differ from those experienced by married couples. While the law prioritizes the best interests of the child, it is essential for unmarried parents to understand their legal rights and how custody and visitation arrangements are determined in the state.
Parental relocation and child custody in California can be one of the most challenging issues to navigate when it comes to divorce. When a parent wants to move away from their current location, it can greatly impact the custody arrangements and the relationship between the child and the other parent.