Divorce is not a decision easily or arbitrarily reached. When you made your vows to your spouse, you did not believe that they would one day expire. However, when you find yourself in the position where it’s time to call the marriage off, you need legal counsel who can support you through to the end. Our San Jacinto divorce lawyers recognize that you are going through a trying time, and we want to use our knowledge and experience to help you get back on your feet with what you need to start the next phase of your life.
The lawyers of The Grey Legal Group have over 75 years of collective experience helping our clients meet their divorce goals. We put the effort of our whole team behind you so you can count on comprehensive guidance. Reach out to schedule a free initial consultation and learn more about how we can help you look out for your own best interests throughout this process.
What You Need To Know About Divorce In California
When you are getting divorced in California, there are two main approaches you might take. These approaches can be broken down like this:
- Uncontested divorce: This type of divorce is generally considered the easier approach. If you and your spouse are in agreement over how you want to handle the terms of your divorce, you don’t have to fight it out in court or submit to the decision of a judge. Since there is no reason to fight, this type of divorce is typically quicker and less expensive.
- Contested divorce: On the opposite end of the spectrum, contested divorce occurs when you and your spouse are not in agreement on how the divorce will proceed. If the two of you cannot come to a consensus and make your divorce uncontested, you will have to go to court and fight for your case.
Keep in mind that mediation is a great step that can turn contested divorce into uncontested divorce. If you and your spouse share the care of a minor child, California requires mediation as a step in your divorce with the intention that you mutually create a parenting plan that is in the best interest of your child. In the event that you are divorcing due to extreme circumstances, such as abuse, this step can be waived. Our firm can represent you no matter what your divorce looks like!
How Our San Jacinto Divorce Lawyers Can Help
There are so many issues that you have to settle in divorce proceedings. Evaluating and protecting your interests can be a battle that takes up so much mental energy, and you need someone who can help you get organized. Some of the issues that our San Jacinto divorce lawyers can help you settle include:
- Who will keep the house? Will you decide to sell it?
- How will you break down child support, custody, and visitation?
- Will either of you pay alimony and, if so, how much?
- Who will keep your pets?
- Do you co-own a business and, if so, how will ownership be resolved?
- How will your high net worth assets be divided?
Since California is a no-fault divorce state, you do not need to prove that wrongdoing led to your divorce. However, if there was some fault that led to the breakdown of your marriage, providing evidence in court can mean that one or more of these issues is decided in your favor. If your partner has been adulterous or abusive, for example, a judge might be more willing to side with you regarding the issues you find important.
The Grey Legal Group Can Help Guide You Through Divorce Successfully
The lawyers of The Grey Legal Group work with you closely to get to know your goals for divorce and craft legal strategies that are personalized to your needs. Reach out to schedule a free initial consultation with a member of our team and learn more about how we can make a difference in your divorce.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I leave my marriage if I am concerned for my safety?
If you are concerned for your safety after leaving your marriage, you have options. Take measures such as creating a go bag, arranging for your financial readiness, and securing your personal documentation. After you have left, you can request a protection order which will prevent your spouse from contacting you.
How is property divided in California?
California is a community property state, meaning that most property (with some exceptions) acquired during a marriage is legally owned by both spouses and should be split fairly.
I earn less than my spouse. Can I get alimony from them?
Whether or not you are entitled to alimony will come down to a decision by a judge. If alimony is an important aspect of your divorce goals, we will work with you on strategies that will optimize your likelihood of having it granted.
