Unmarried couples who move in together often assume the law will treat them fairly if the relationship ends, but California offers almost none of the automatic protections spouses receive, which is exactly what a cohabitation agreement is designed to fix. Key Takeaways: California does not recognize common law marriage, which means unmarried partners have no automatic right to property division or support when a Read More

Getting divorced changes far more than your marital status, and an outdated estate plan can quietly undo decisions you thought you'd already settled. Key Takeaways: California law automatically revokes certain provisions naming a former spouse in a will after divorce, but that protection does not extend to every document, including many retirement accounts and life insurance policies. Beneficiary Read More

Executive Summary: AI chat conversations are generally not protected by attorney-client privilege and may become relevant in a divorce case if they contain information related to finances, custody, support, or other disputed issues. California divorce cases require extensive financial disclosure, and modern discovery can include many forms of electronic communication. If you're involved in a divorce, be cautious Read More

Spousal support is one of the most significant and frequently misunderstood financial issues in a California divorce, and understanding how courts approach it can help you make informed decisions about your case from the very beginning. Key Takeaways: California courts consider a list of factors when determining spousal support, and there is no single formula that automatically produces an outcome — the result Read More

When a divorce is filed in California, the months between filing and final resolution are not a pause in real life, and temporary orders are the legal framework that keeps things stable, fair, and enforceable while the process plays out. Key Takeaways: Temporary orders are court-issued directives that govern critical issues like child custody, spousal support, child support, and property use from the time they Read More

If you suspect your spouse is hiding assets during your divorce, understanding your legal rights and the tools available to uncover concealed property is essential to protecting your financial future. Key Takeaways: California law requires both spouses to fully and accurately disclose all assets, debts, and income during divorce proceedings, and failing to do so carries serious legal consequences. There are Read More

When facing a divorce, emotions can run high, especially when adultery is involved. Since California is a no-fault divorce state, adultery has no bearing on whether or not divorce is accessible. However, that doesn’t mean that infidelity has no impact on the divorce process. Key Takeaways: California is a no-fault divorce state, meaning adultery doesn’t directly affect the grounds for Read More

If you are going through divorce in California, understanding how retirement accounts are divided can help you protect your financial future. Key Takeaways: Retirement accounts earned during the marriage are typically considered community property in California and may be subject to division. Not all retirement assets are divided the same way; some require special court orders like a QDRO to divide them Read More

Dividing assets in a high-net-worth divorce in California requires careful planning and a comprehensive understanding of the financial implications. It's not just about splitting property; it involves complex issues like business valuations, real estate, investments, and spousal support. Key Takeaways: Dividing assets in a high-net-worth divorce often requires expert valuation of business interests, Read More

Divorce is never easy. In fact, it’s one of the most stressful things anyone can go through, whether you’ve been married for a few years or a few decades. There’s the emotional toll, the financial considerations, and, of course, the logistics of untangling a life you’ve built together. But did you know there’s more than one way to divorce?  Depending on your situation, you might have options that can make the Read More