Los Angeles Divorce Attorney

When Should You Consult a Divorce Attorney?

Deciding to hire a divorce attorney can feel like a significant step, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you have to file for divorce immediately. Engaging with a legal professional early on can provide you with valuable insights and prepare you for the next chapter of your life, whether that involves counseling, separation, or divorce.

If you are contemplating divorce or have been taken by surprise by your spouse's decision to file, it’s crucial to consult with a Los Angeles divorce attorney at the first sign of trouble. Early legal guidance can help you understand your rights and responsibilities, ensuring you are well-prepared for the process ahead.

A knowledgeable Los Angeles family attorney can help you:

• Protect your assets
• Prepare your children for the transition
• Gather necessary documentation
• Solidify your financial position

Feel free to ask your divorce attorney any questions about the costs, legal procedures, potential impacts on your business, your children’s living arrangements, and your finances. Addressing these concerns early can help ease the stress of the divorce process. For further pricing information, we offer a tailored fixed pricing structure that you may discuss with your attorney. 

Understanding the Divorce Process in LA County

Every divorce is unique, and while we cannot predict the exact course your case will take without a detailed consultation, the divorce process generally follows a standard framework.

Here are the primary steps involved in filing for divorce in California:

1. File for Divorce & Pay the Fees: Obtain a divorce packet from the court clerk or download it online. Complete the necessary paperwork (it’s advisable to have legal assistance) and return it to the court clerk along with the required filing fees.
2. Serve Divorce Papers & Obtain Proof of Service: After filing, you must serve copies of the divorce papers, known as the "Petition and Summons," to your spouse. This cannot be done by the person filing; it must be carried out by a process server, a Sheriff's Deputy, or a trusted individual over the age of 18. The server must then file the "Proof of Service" with the court.
3. Response to the Divorce Summons: The recipient of the divorce papers, known as the "Respondent," has 30 days to file a response with the court.
4. Discovery: Following the filing of divorce papers, both parties must disclose relevant information and documents regarding assets, property, and other necessary details to prepare for negotiations or trial.
5. Mediation and/or Litigation: Many uncontested divorce cases can be resolved outside of court through mediation or alternative dispute resolution (ADR). However, contested cases may require litigation, where a judge will make final decisions on asset division, child custody, support, and more.
6. Finalizing Your Divorce: Once all issues are resolved, either through mutual agreement or a judge's ruling, the divorce is finalized with the judge's approval and signature on the final judgment.

Are There Alternatives to Divorce Court?

Not every divorce needs to go through the court system. Many couples can achieve a resolution through mediation, collaborative law, or alternative dispute resolution (ADR).

Have questions about how to initiate the divorce process? Don’t hesitate to reach out to our Los Angeles divorce attorneys at (800) 655-4766 today.