California Divorce Law
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Frequently Asked Questions about California Dissolution of Marriage
Q: What is dissolution of marriage?
A: Rather than referring to "divorce," California law refers to "dissolution of marriage." There is no fundamental difference between what is called "divorce" in another state and what is called "dissolution of marriage" in California. Both terms refer to the process by which a marriage between parties is terminated and their respective legal rights and obligations regarding property, child custody, and child and spousal support are determined.
Q: Because California is a so-called "no-fault" divorce state, does misconduct by either spouse ever come into play in the final judgment of the court?
A: Perhaps, in some circumstances; for example, under California law, when making a custody determination, the court must consider whether there is evidence of domestic violence. Also, a determination of whether one party will be awarded spousal support may hinge on the issue of a domestic violence conviction. California law also provides that in making a property award, the court may consider misappropriation of an asset by one party to the detriment of the other.
In recent years, more than 60% of California marriages have ended in divorce. If you have questions about how California law may address the issues in your marriage, contact a California family law attorney.
Experienced Los Angeles, California, Divorce Attorney
Divorce in California is unlike any other state. Your attorney will need experience and skills working with judges and executing court procedures properly. The lawyers of Feinberg & Waller provide a full range of divorce and family law services based on experience and skilled preparation. Under the direction of California board-certified family law specialist Marshall Waller, our lawyers have earned recognition for helping our clients protect their interests in divorces that often include complex financial settlements, spousal support and child custody arrangements.
Our firm Link to Firm Overview page serves the family law needs of communities throughout the Los Angeles metro region. We invite you to learn more about California divorce on this page. Contact us to schedule a free consultation at our Calabasas or Beverly Hills offices.
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California Dissolution of Marriage - An Overview
The breakdown of a marriage is likely one of the most stressful times in a person's life, and divorce is a daunting task to undertake alone. An experienced California family law attorney from Feinberg & Waller in Beverly Hills, Calabasas, California, can guide you, professionally yet compassionately, through this often difficult time. If you are contemplating dissolution of marriage, call Feinberg & Waller today.
Many individuals experiencing divorce find themselves so involved in the emotional and psychological aspects of the breakup of their family that they are unable to focus on the fact that the process of dissolution of marriage is a legal process. It is wise for parties to have a working knowledge of the legal issues involved in the divorce to avoid being overwhelmed by the emotional aspects. An experienced California dissolution of marriage lawyer will work to protect your legal interests, allowing you to focus on yourself and your family.
Division of Property
Because classification of property and its division can become one of the most contentious issues in a divorce, seek the advice and assistance of a California dissolution of marriage attorney familiar with the particulars of California community property law.
Domestic Violence and Child Custody
Even though California is a no-fault state for dissolution of marriage, evidence of domestic violence in a marriage can play a major role in decisions regarding the children of the parties.
Spousal Support
In California, married persons have a right and an obligation to support each other during their marriage. Depending upon numerous factors taken into consideration by a court in a dissolution case, this obligation may extend beyond the marriage.
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in California Dissolution Cases
In California, parties wishing to lessen conflict and work toward more win-win solutions to their disputes can take advantage of many modes of alternative dispute resolution (ADR), including, in the larger counties, conciliation court (in larger counties), mediation and collaborative law.
