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.
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.
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.
Finding the right family law attorney can make all the difference when it comes to resolving your divorce or child custody dispute on favorable terms. The consultation can provide some of the most important insights into a prospective lawyer. This initial meeting is where attorneys learn about your case and offer insights and ideas about how they can help your case.
There is no obligation for the client to sign on with an attorney. The initial meeting is an opportunity for the potential client to feel out whether they want to work with a specific lawyer. Coming prepared with questions can help you make the most of that time. If you are unsure about what to ask an attorney during your consultation, consider these Top 6 Questions.
Divorces and child custody disputes can be highly emotional periods in your life. In some cases, those court disputes can bring out damaging accusations from one or both spouses. One party may make false allegations that the other party is addicted to drugs or physically or emotionally abusive. When your child custody rights are on the line, it is important to understand tips for fighting false allegations in family court.
San Diego Divorce Attorneys Blog