What you should know about divorce in California
You know when you want to get a divorce, whether it’s a gradual process or something you suddenly realize. However, once you come to the decision, you will want to understand what is ahead.
Envision Family Law provides Californians with answers about the divorce process. We show you what’s possible, what’s likely, and what can’t be done. The specifics of your divorce are going to be highly personal. However, there are some critical pieces of information that you may want to start with, such as:
How does divorce in California work?
California is a no-fault divorce and community property state. This means that either side of the marriage can ask for a divorce without needing to provide a reason and both sides equally own the marital estate.
There are essential waiting periods and several fees which you must pay. Overall, the process for the divorce should settle the major questions of custody, child support, property division and spousal support.
How long does a divorce take?
There is a minimum waiting period of 6 months after you and your attorney submit paperwork for a divorce. However, there is often a great deal of negotiation that can happen during this process. The judge even may pause the divorce should they believe there is a possibility of reconciliation.
What will happen with my kids?
Your child custody situation is a complicated topic, but the state will always make sure that the eventual agreement is in the best interests of your child. This means that if you’re pursuing individual legal and physical custody, you will have to make the case that this is better for your children than the alternative. This can be challenging.
Do I need a lawyer for a divorce?
Technically, you could do the work of a divorce – filing paperwork and negotiating custody and property division – yourself. However, taking that on alone leaves you wide open to the many pitfalls of the legal process that will make the divorce more complicated and much more expensive.
Get answers today
Our firm is here to assist you in getting the answers to your questions so you can move forward appropriately in your divorce. We provide compassion and advocacy to you every step of the way.