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.
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.
Understanding the impact of domestic violence on child custody in California, the legal protections of children and survivors, and important components of custody cases is critical to dealing with these complicated circumstances.
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.
For business owners, a prenuptial agreement can offer critical protection by outlining ownership rights and ensuring the continuity of the business. These agreements, drafted before marriage, address key financial arrangements and serve as a safeguard against potential disputes.
When parents separate or divorce in California, one of the most important decisions they face is how to handle child custody. The court’s primary goal is to determine an arrangement that serves the child’s well-being. Understanding the differences between joint custody vs. sole custody in California, as well as the legal and practical implications of each, is essential for parents navigating this complex process.
In California, child support is a critical element of family law. It helps to ensure children receive the financial resources they need after their parents separate or divorce. Child support helps cover a child’s basic needs, such as housing, food, healthcare, and education. How child support is calculated in California involves several factors and formulas, which are designed to ensure fairness for both parents.
In high-conflict custody cases or divorces, the court’s main concern is the well-being of the child. In order to determine how important matters like visitations and custody are allotted, the courts may evaluate the mental health of one or both parents to ensure that they can provide a stable, nurturing environment.
Mental health evaluations (also known as psychological evaluations) play a crucial role in custody disputes. They can provide the court with an objective assessment of a parent’s psychological state and their ability to care for their child. Understanding how these evaluations work and why they are sometimes required can help parents navigate this challenging aspect of family law.
California’s family courts place a high priority on the safety and welfare of children. In certain situations, particularly with high-conflict child custody cases or that involve allegations of abuse, a judge may appoint a guardian ad litem (GAL) to advocate for the child’s best interests.
A GAL can potentially be assigned to any case, so parents should understand the role of a guardian ad litem — when one is necessary and what to expect during the process. Knowledge in this area can help families navigate the court system more effectively.
San Diego Divorce Attorneys Blog