Experienced Divorce Representation
In divorce law, the difference is truly in the details. At Rombro & Manley LLP in Manhattan Beach, our detail-oriented approach has helped us establish a formidable record of success representing clients in California divorces. We prepare early and thoroughly, making sure we have all the facts in hand. When disputes arise, we are prepared to resolve them through negotiation, mediation, arbitration or traditional litigation. If you are looking for a divorce lawyer to guide you through these trying times, you can trust in our compassionate representation.
Divorce In California
Getting a divorce in California like the dissolution of a business. The problem with this analogy is that a divorce is often one of the most extraordinarily emotional and distressing events a person ever goes through. Successful legal representation requires sensitivity to the emotional component along with the skills and experience to see that your rights are adequately represented.
What Are Grounds For Divorce?
California is a “no-fault” jurisdiction, meaning that one party does not have to prove misconduct on the part of the other to obtain a divorce. A divorce may instead be granted on the basis of irreconcilable differences between the parties. Issues such as marital infidelity or habitual drunkenness do not generally affect property division as they do in fault-based jurisdictions, although factors such as domestic violence can have significant impact on child custody and spousal support issues.
Understanding The Divorce Process
In a divorce, all marital property — credit and debt — is subject to division. The parties begin with a full and complete disclosure of assets and debts, and have an affirmative obligation to provide detailed information. The court may give temporary orders providing for child support or spousal support, or setting custody and visitation guidelines until a final order is entered.
If there are contested issues, the parties may attempt to resolve them through negotiation or mediation. If an agreement cannot be reached, the dispute must be resolved in court. Following a trial, the judge will decide issues such as property division, child custody and support, and spousal support. A divorce may be finalized as early as six months after a petition is filed if the parties are in full agreement; however, finalizing the divorce process can take longer where the parties do not agree and depending on how contentious the issues are.
Residency Requirements
One spouse must have been a resident of California for six months and a country resident for 3 months before filing for divorce in California. However, even if you haven’t been in California long enough to divorce, you can still file for legal separation. During a legal separation, the judge can grant temporary orders to protect your interests. After establishing residency, you can change the request from legal separation to divorce.
Be Sure That You Are Comfortable With Your Legal Representation
A divorce can be a difficult and extraordinarily emotional time for the people involved, causing severe disruptions to the finances and daily lives of the spouses. A qualified and experienced divorce attorney can be an invaluable asset, making sure that you are treated fairly and that the process goes as smoothly as possible. Contact a divorce lawyer to discuss your needs by calling 310-545-1900.