Contra Costa and Alameda County Divorce Lawyers
In California, it may seem tempting to try to divorce on your own. But foregoing the advice of an experienced divorce attorney can actually end up costing more money and time in the long run.
At Law Offices of John A. Guthrie, we have seen far too many clients trying to save money handling their own case. People often end up spending much more time and money hiring a divorce lawyer to sort out the legal chaos. We have a commitment to securing the rights of clients with cost-effective legal services the first time around.
To learn how we can help you, email our office to set up a meeting today, or call 925-271-4342. Our firm’s divorce attorneys in Pleasanton and Danville offer free initial consultations to discuss your family law concerns.
Comprehensive Divorce Attorneys Providing Effective Solutions
If you are considering a divorce or need to respond to divorce papers, you are dealing not just with legal issues. Emotional issues often are in play during a separation or divorce — especially in a contested divorce. You need a divorce attorney who can effectively advocate for your interests throughout the process. At the Law Offices of John A. Guthrie, our legal team will help you address your legal issues, so you can focus on your emotional concerns.
Legal Separation Vs. Divorce
In California, couples may pursue a traditional divorce or a legal separation. A divorce ends the marriage, severing legal ties and setting the spouses off on their individual paths. However, in some situations, it can be more beneficial to preserve those ties but still live separate lives.
A legal separation, a formal arrangement allowing couples to live apart while remaining legally married, offers a possible solution. It involves negotiating and signing an agreement similar to a divorce settlement that outlines terms for property division, child custody and related matters.
Many opt for a legal separation to maintain marital benefits (health insurance, etc.) or adhere to personal or religious beliefs opposing divorce.
Divorce Process Timeline
The divorce process in California can vary in duration depending on the complexity of the case and the level of cooperation between the parties. Here is a general outline, but remember these are loose estimates:
- Filing petition and response (1-2 months): One spouse files a petition, the other responds within 30 days
- Temporary orders (2-3 months): Establishes child custody, support and additional temporary orders
- Discovery phase (3-6 months): Spouses exchange financial and other information
- Settlement negotiations (3-9 months): Spouses attempt to reach an agreement
- Trial (1-2 months): If no settlement, a judge makes final decisions at trial
The timeline of your divorce will depend on factors such as the complexity of your situation, the ability to cooperate and any disputes that may arise.
Filing Requirements And Procedures
To file for divorce in California, certain requirements and procedures must be met:
- At least one spouse must have lived in California for six months and in the county where the divorce is filed for three months.
- The petitioner files legal documents, like the Petition (FL-100) and Summons (FL-110), plus financial disclosures and child custody forms if needed.
- The petitioner must serve the divorce papers to the other spouse, who then has 30 days to respond.
Filing for a divorce also involves paying court fees, which vary by county but generally range around $435. Fee waivers are available for those who qualify.
We Collaborate With Other Professionals To Serve Your Divorce Goals
Whatever issues are involved in your divorce, the details matter.
We will take the time to explain the factors the courts consider when making child custody decisions. Often the toughest decisions in a divorce are child custody and visitation schedules. If necessary, we work with investigators and psychologists. These experts establish important facts to reach a resolution that meets the best interests of the children.
When it comes to property division, we have a commitment to ensuring that you receive a fair property award. In divorces that involve complex asset portfolios, such as stock options, closely-held businesses, vacation properties or valuable art or jewelry collections, we address the issues head-on. It may become necessary to work with experts to reach a correct valuation. California follows a community property approach, which we can explain in more detail in regard to your unique situation.
The family law legal team at Law Offices of John A. Guthrie has experience with a wide range of issues that arise in divorce and separation, including domestic violence disputes. Our job is not always completed with a final court order, we often assist with post-dissolution matters such as modifications or enforcement of spousal support.
Is An Amicable Divorce Solution Possible?
When you and a former spouse want to limit conflict, collaborative divorce provides a tool. We can discuss the collaborative law model with you, which is designed to address your legal needs outside of litigation.
Our law firm also offers mediation as a cost-effective service for settling family law disputes.
Set Up A Consultation Today With A Well-Regarded Divorce Law Firm
Our firm’s divorce attorneys in Pleasanton want to listen to you and help address your pressing legal concerns. Send us a message, or call 925-271-4342 today to schedule a free initial consultation at our Pleasanton or Danville office. We serve clients in Alameda County, Contra Costa County and throughout the Bay Area.