The Divorce Process in California
San Diego Divorce Attorney
The prospect of divorce inevitably brings clients to our office with a wide range of emotions. We are very sensitive to those going through a marital breakdown. We understand that this may mean that you have lost a source of support, comfort, and familiarity—both financially and emotionally in many cases.
As a San Diego divorce attorney, Deanne Arthur has handled many divorce cases with competence, compassion, and personalized attention. Hiring an attorney early in the process often prevents the mistakes that occur when parties to divorce represent themselves before the court. We know this because we handle many cases where individuals have tried to handle their divorce themselves and later came to us when they can no longer navigate their way through the legal system.
Getting legal help early in the process can prevent the many mistakes our clients make trying to handle things themselves. It can also avoid the stresses that accompany those mistakes. Trust your case to our team!
What Makes Deanne Arthur Qualified to Help You?
Her firm handles all aspects of divorces in California, including legal separation and dissolution of marriage, property settlements, child custody and visitation arrangements, as well as child support and spousal support issues.
Whether you are considering divorce or you have been served with divorce papers, contact us to determine your best outcome. Call 619-564-8386.
She wants to help you protect your rights and avoid common divorce mistakes. For detailed information about California divorce law and the divorce process, call our firm today.
Division of Marital Assets in California
California is a community property state, meaning all assets acquired during the marriage – including increased value of assets brought to the marriage – are part of the “marital pot.” Our Los Angeles divorce attorneys are experienced in the valuation and division of assets in property division matters , while retaining forensic accountants and other professionals to value pension plans, stocks/stock options, homes, other real estate, and business ownership interests.
What California Law Says About Spousal Support
Spousal support, or better known as “alimony,” may be granted when one partner’s income exceeds the other, especially if the party receiving support has less education or a lower earning capacity. The amount of spousal support depends on many factors, including the income levels of both parties, custody arrangement, housing situations and more. The duration of spousal support depends upon the length of the marriage and other factors. If the marriage has lasted more than 10 years, support might be granted indefinitely until the death or remarriage of the receiving spouse.
Settling a Divorce vs. Divorce Litigation
California is a no-fault divorce state. This means that either party may file for divorce simply due to irreconcilable differences. Property settlements are not affected by the behavior of either spouse – although child custody and visitation may be. Despite the emotions often involved in divorce, it is in the best interests of both spouses to work out an agreement and avoid divorce litigation. Settlement affords more control than going to court, where the final decision lies with a judge. It can also allow a couple to resolve their case quicker and more affordable. If an agreement cannot be reached, however, we vigorously defend our clients’ interests in court to ensure a fair divorce settlement.
Deanne Arthur often recommends mediation with a neutral third party to work out disagreements, particularly when children are involved. We advise clients on legal strategies and recommendations for workable, out-of-court, custody and visitation agreements. We stand by our clients until the healing and recovery process of divorce where we refer a network of trusted family counselors to help them. No matter the specific concerns you have, we can assist with every aspect of divorce.
