Family Law FAQ

We do not. Each and every meeting with a client—new or existing—is an investment of our time, attention, and resources. This way, you get the full benefit of our expertise right from the start.

Technically, no. Some folks do handle very simple divorces on their own. However, the breakup of most marriages involves complicated financial and legal issues. Just as you would see a doctor for a serious medical problem, let a legal professional guide you through your divorce.

The shortest amount of time the process can take in California is six months from the date the petition was filed.

One spouse must have lived in the state for six months and in the county (where the petition was filed) for three months.

Spouses may receive two different kinds of financial support: temporary vs. permanent. The court may order temporary spousal support, which is based on an official formula and both spouses’ incomes. Permanent support is usually given near the end of a divorce and is determined based on a wide array of factors.

Temporary support usually lasts from the initial filing for divorce to the final resolution of the case. Permanent support is usually dependent upon the length of the marriage.

Just like spousal support, whether you receive child support and the specific amount depends on your situation. However, it’s calculated based on a formula that takes into account both spouses’ income and the time each parent spends taking care of the children.

Parents can expect to pay support until their child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever is later. If the child is still in high school past 18, then the support can continue up to age 19. Support can also last longer if the parent agrees to it.

Aside from a divorce, an annulment is the only other way to end a marriage. An annulment basically erases the marriage, declaring that it was never legally valid. Either spouse can file for one. Requirements vary by state, but some of the common grounds for annulment are bigamy, forced consent, fraud, mental illness, etc.

Aside from a divorce, an annulment is the only other way to end a marriage. An annulment basically erases the marriage, declaring that it was never legally valid. Either spouse can file for one. Requirements vary by state, but some of the common grounds for annulment are bigamy, forced consent, fraud, mental illness, etc.

Community property is essentially any thing of financial value that you acquired (or earned) during the marriage. Some common examples include your house, cars, furniture, stocks, etc.

Separate property belongs completely to one spouse. They’re usually things you purchased or owned before the marriage, but not always. For instance, if you bought a ski cabin in your single days, that would be separate property. However, if you received an inheritance during your marriage, that could also fall under the same category.

Both spouses have a legal right to stay in the home. Unless you’ve worked out an agreement on sharing the house or deciding who will move out, you cannot force your spouse to move. However, if you have minor children living in the home and can show that it would be in their best interests if the other parent left, the court can grant a temporary order. If you don’t have kids, but your spouse has made serious threats, you can also appeal to the court.

For specific answers to all your family law questions, please call us today at 415-300-0411.