Protect Your Family and Your Future With the Best Divorce Lawyers in Orange County
Separation and divorce are ugly processes that no one wants to go through, but unfortunately, many people are forced to do so when they realize that their marriage is beyond repair and will never be healthy or happy again. When you are going through this process, you will want experienced Orange County Divorce Lawyers fighting on your side. They will do everything possible to ensure the best possible agreement and arrangement for your family that protects your future and keeps your children happy and healthy.
Gather information, procedures and documents
If you are considering ending your marriage, the first step is to consult with the best divorce lawyers in Orange County. They will actually be able to tell you whether or not you have genuine grounds for a case and, if so, what your chances are of getting alimony, fair arrangements, or custody of your children.
You will need to provide evidence which may include photographs of abuse, text messages from your spouse threatening you or the children, recordings of disagreements between you and your spouse about money, or anything else that may be relevant. You can’t make these decisions on your own! It is important to find the right attorney to represent you and ensure that all of your rights are protected.
Before you can file a divorce, make sure you qualify
To file for “dissolution” in Orange County, you must be a California resident for at least six months. Then, a resident of the county in which you wish to apply for three months. Therefore, you must have lived in O.C for at least 3 months.
Then, after the initial filing, California law requires parties to wait six months before the court may issue a final judgment of dissolution. It is imperative that you have an attorney who understands your needs but also the most reasonable and realistic outcome possible. Contact us so we can provide you with all legal resources.
community property
Under California family law, any assets obtained after marriage are considered “community property.” The law says: “Except as otherwise provided by law, all property, real or personal, wherever located, acquired by a married person during the marriage, while domiciled in this state, is community property.” (Family Code §760). As in any case, the law does not say things in black and white. It is best to speak to a legally trained professional who can advise on what to do about your asset problem.
Separate Property
There is the opposite of community property, known as separate property.
This is the property you brought to the marriage. If you inherited your house or paid for your car and then got married, you may have separate property. Separate property is any property you acquired without financing from your partner. But nothing is set in stone. In the law, nothing is guaranteed, and in divorce, there is a chance that your partner will have a right to your home, even if he brought it into the marriage. Additionally, someone’s retirement plan can be independently owned, community owned, or a little of both.
Assessing the value and ownership interest of property requires a trained professional. The best way to avoid any risks is to speak with a trained professional. The best way to protect your rights in marriage is through an agreement either before or during the marriage. Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements can help protect you. Even when a dissolution is imminent, a postnup can clean up the divorce before it begins.
Divorce is never an easy task when any type of disputed asset is at stake. Sometimes there is no dispute over assets or who gets what. If you do not fall into this minimum category or simply need help with some of the items in dispute, an attorney can still help you. This may fall under limited scope representation.
Divorce under California law
To obtain a divorce in California, you and/or your spouse must meet the residency requirements established by the state law. The California Family Code states that a person must reside in California for at least 6 months before being eligible to file for divorce. Additionally, the petitioner must also reside in the county where the petition is filed for at least 3 months.
In the absence of any of these mandates, California courts will not consider any divorce petitions. In reality, the law differs slightly for LGBT couples. They can request a divorce even if they have not met the above requirements, if:
- The couple got married in California and
- The couple’s state of residence refuses to allow them to divorce.
In the event that you or your spouse do not meet the residency requirements, you can always request legal separation.
What is the waiting period for a divorce in California?
There is a waiting period for every couple who wants to separate. The law establishes a minimum waiting period of six months to ensure that the couple wishes to dissolve their marriage.
Even if you and your spouse mutually agree to divorce, the waiting period remains the same. You can search the web with terms like divorce lawyers near me, or get rid of all this hassle and call us today.
How much does it cost?
Divorce is never an easy process and can be quite expensive, especially if you do not have the right lawyer. When choosing a divorce attorney in Orange County, it is important to find one who has the experience you need and knows the area well. The average cost of a divorce attorney in Orange County varies depending on their experience and the type of case they are handling. However, you’ll want to ask about costs up front before hiring them because this way there are no surprises along the way.
Our legal staff at the James Sowers Law Firm have represented clients in family court disputes for years. From custody arrangements and divorce cases to child support agreements, we have successfully handled all aspects of family law. Our reasonable fees and flexible payment options make our legal services accessible to all clients. Contact us immediately for more details!
California is a no-fault divorce state
California is actually a no-fault divorce state, meaning that no one should be blamed for a failed marriage that ends in divorce. In legal terms, the parties do not have to explain why they are divorcing. There are two general considerations for obtaining a divorce in California:
- Mental incapacity of a spouse, and
- Irreconcilable differences
The couple simply has to explain to the court that the differences between them are irreconcilable and that the differences between them cannot be overcome. The court would recognize that due to the differences between the couple, their marriage simply can no longer function.
James Sowers can help you with all aspects of a divorce
Divorce is a difficult time in anyone’s life and an experienced Orange County divorce attorney can make the difference in your case. They can expertly guide you through all the stages of a divorce and tell you your best options.
James Sowers will help you accept the situation and take advantage of the best option that benefits you and your family.
At Spanish Child Custody Attorneys, our attorneys have decades of experience handling family law disputes in Orange County. We are led by James Sowers, who is exceptionally qualified and is a certified family law attorney. We are fully prepared to represent your interests in a variety of family law matters, such as child custody, property division, spousal support, and much more.
Here’s how our experienced Orange County divorce attorneys can help you:
Contested and uncontested divorce
A contested O.C divorce occurs when the parties truly cannot reach an agreement or amicable terms. Several issues, such as child custody and visitation, cannot be agreed upon, in which case going to court is the last resort left to the parties.
Alternatively, when both parties agree to the terms of the divorce, the divorce is considered uncontested. In any case, you should speak with a legal expert and discuss your case and the best way forward.
Child support
During a divorce, it becomes very difficult for the children, both financially and emotionally. The children’s future can also become a source of friction between parents. An experienced Orange County divorce attorney like James Sowers can help you secure your children’s financial future. Contact us to discuss your case and learn your rights.
Child custody
Child custody is another important aspect of a divorce. It is imperative that parents put aside their differences and determine what is best for their children. If they do not do so, the courts will ensure the welfare of the children.
James Sowers understands that child custody disputes are often the most complex part of a divorce. That’s why she and her legal team are here to find a way that protects your rights while serving the best interests of the children. Contact us today and secure the rights of your children.
The importance of having experienced representation
Divorce is difficult for everyone, but when you are getting divorced and have children or property, it can be even more complicated. It is important to have the right legal representation to help you make wise decisions that will protect your family and your future. An experienced attorney will know what is best for you in each situation and how to get what you need from any settlement.
It can be difficult to make decisions in your divorce, such as whether you should fight for custody of your children or what type of property division is fair, without the guidance of a professional. A good divorce attorney knows how to present each side of an argument so you get what you deserve. The sooner you retain the services of an attorney, the better off you will be.
James Sowers Orange County Divorce Lawyers – Dominant Representation in Difficult Times!
Whenever you are involved in a family dispute and don’t know how to proceed, trust a compassionate, experienced litigator who has a deep understanding of California law. Led by James Sowers, who brings extensive experience to your side, we can win the best possible settlement for you and your family.
We seek to thoroughly understand our clients’ circumstances and situations so we can map out a strategy that gives them an advantage in the courtroom and at the negotiating table.
Discuss your case one on one with our Orange County Divorce Lawyers with complete confidentiality. We will use our legal wisdom to offer a free evaluation of your case. Call us at (714) 733-7065 or email info@lopezscca.com for expert legal assistance and the best divorce attorneys in the County from Orange.
The Benefits Of Working With Accomplished Divorce Lawyers In Los Angeles
• Access to Professional Legal Advice: One of the most significant advantages of hiring an experienced Orange County family lawyer is their ability to provide you with professional legal advice. An accomplished lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal system, provide you with comprehensive legal guidance, and help you make informed decisions.
• Reduction of Emotional Stress: Divorce is an emotionally taxing process that can take a toll on your mental health. An Orange County family lawyer can ease your emotional stress by providing you with support, compassion, and guidance. They can help you deal with challenging issues & assist you in reaching a favorable resolution without causing unnecessary harm.
• Advocacy and Representation: An accomplished Orange County family lawyer will act as your advocate and provide representation on your behalf. They can really help you fight for your legal rights and work tirelessly to protect your interests.
• Negotiation Skills: An experienced Orange County family lawyer possesses strong negotiation skills that can help you resolve family disputes without resorting to costly litigation. They can assist you in reaching a mutually beneficial agreement and avoid unnecessary litigation costs.
• Timely and Efficient Resolution: A seasoned Orange County family lawyer can help you resolve your legal matter efficiently and promptly. They understand the nuances of the O.C. legal system & know how to navigate through it to achieve the desired outcome.
Overall, working with an accomplished Orange County family lawyer can be beneficial in various ways. From providing professional legal advice & answering vital questions like “How much does a divorce cost in California” to advocating & negotiating on your behalf, a skilled family lawyer can help you achieve a positive outcome while minimizing unnecessary expenses.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Do I need a lawyer for my divorce?
If your divorce is uncontested, meaning you and your spouse agree on everything, you may not need an Orange County divorce attorney. However, divorce is a complicated topic, so it is highly advisable to consult with a divorce attorney before taking the next step.
2. How Much Does a Divorce Lawyer Cost in Orange County?
The filing fee for a divorce in California is $435, and the attorney’s fee depends on the complexity of your case. However, most Orange County divorce attorneys, like Dolores Lopez, offer a free initial consultation session where you can get expert legal guidance at no cost.
3. What are the reasons why I can get divorced in California?
California is a “no-fault state,” meaning neither party can blame the other for the divorce. Spouses must cite ‘irreconcilable differences’ or ‘mental incapacity’ in order to divorce in California.
4. How long does it take to get divorced in Orange County?
Depending on the nature and level of conflict between you and your spouse, a divorce can take anywhere from a few months to years. If you and your spouse disagree about aspects of the divorce, such as child custody, property division, etc., the process can take a significant amount of time in court.
5. Does California have residency requirements for divorce?
Yes. California law requires the petitioner to be a resident of the state for at least six months before filing for divorce. Additionally, you must be a resident of the county where you are filing the petition for at least three months before doing so.
6. What is the difference between legal separation and divorce?
The divorce and legal separation process is the same, but the end result varies. In divorce, your marital status is revoked and both spouses are considered single. Under legal separation, spouses live separately, although the marriage is not dissolved.
7. Can there be an out-of-court settlement during a divorce in California?
Yes, if both spouses agree to handle the divorce matters at any time before the trial begins, the matter can be resolved without court intervention. Both parties must sign the divorce settlement agreement, which will be reviewed and approved by a judge before the final order is entered.