Alamo Divorce Lawyer

Alamo Divorce Attorney

Going through a divorce can feel like an uphill battle without the guidance of a dedicated Alamo, CA, divorce lawyer. A marriage dissolution is not just the end of a relationship. It also involves a separation of assets, which can tremendously impact your finances and lifestyle. If children are involved, it may also negatively affect your children’s welfare.

The seasoned attorneys at Tierney Law Group, PC, have deep knowledge of California family law. We support our clients in the Alamo community in successfully resolving divorce and financial support or custody issues.

Separation Process Explained

California divorce laws provide different avenues for legally dissolving a marriage or partnership that take into account the complexities of family dynamics.

To file for divorce in Alamo, you must meet residency requirements for the state and Contra Costa County. You are required to file your divorce petition in the County Superior Court.

Once a petition is submitted, a notice should be served to the opposing party (i.e., the other spouse).

A final divorce judgment is issued once matters of property division and child custody and support are negotiated between both parties or adjudicated by a judge.

Not all separation processes are the same, and depending on your unique situation, there may be additional steps or considerations you may need to take.

• No-fault divorce. In a no-fault state, either party in a marriage can file for a petition and receive a divorce regardless of the reason for the separation. All divorces are considered no-fault divorces in the state.
• Legal separation. A petition for legal separation allows an individual to request a division of finances, enforcement of child custody rights, and orders of child or spousal support. This option may serve couples who have not met the residency requirement for divorce or who, for personal reasons, do not want to pursue a divorce.
• Same-sex divorce. The state can process divorce petitions for same-sex couples who were married in the state but who live in a state that does not recognize same-sex marriage. A California court may not be able to handle property and child custody issues if the couple lives out of state.
• Collaborative divorce. Couples who have agreed to separate and are on the same page when it comes to custody or property division can pursue a collaborative divorce where they can come up with a divorce agreement instead of leaving the details of their separation in the hands of a family court judge.
• This is another option when both parties are interested in separating amicably but require the assistance of a qualified mediation attorney to draft a divorce agreement that satisfies both sides.

Each type of separation is unique. With the support of a skilled family divorce attorney with years of practice handling different types of legal separations, you can decide on the optimal way to pursue a divorce.

How an Alamo, CA, Divorce Lawyer Can Help You

Navigating the family court system is not simple. Judges and court staff are neutral parties in a divorce process, and although they can inform you about the various forms you have to fill out and what you may expect, they cannot provide legal advice.

With the assistance of a skilled Alamo, CA, divorce lawyer, you can rest assured that your interests are pushed forward while ensuring you are complying with state law.

A divorce attorney assists with:

• Completing the necessary paperwork and following up with court scheduling.
• Properly serving a divorce petition to the other spouse.
• Securing rights of members of the LGBTQ community who are going through a divorce.
• Pursuing discovery and assessment of marital property for a fair division of assets.
• Acting as mediators or representatives in a collaborative divorce.
• Representing you in court and advocating for your rights in a custody or support case.

It can be tempting to handle a divorce on your own. It may, however, be more costly if you are unable to secure the financial assets or spousal support you are entitled to. It may also create a further drift between both parties, which can negatively impact your children.

FAQs

Q: How Long Does a Divorce Take?

A: How long a divorce takes in California depends on the circumstances of the separation, including whether children are involved or if it is a high-asset divorce. There is a waiting period of six months before a divorce can be finalized in the state. However, it may take longer than this, especially if the separation is contentious.

Q: Can I Get a Divorce in CA Without a Lawyer?

A: You can get a divorce in the state without a lawyer. It is highly encouraged that you consult a divorce attorney, especially if you want to ensure your financial assets are protected or if you have concerns about child custody issues. A knowledgeable attorney may be able to help you resolve these matters to your advantage.

Q: Does the Husband Have to Pay for the Wife’s Divorce Lawyer?

A: A husband may or may not have to pay for a wife’s divorce lawyer in California. The same is true for a wife paying for a husband’s divorce lawyer. Regardless of a party’s gender, if an individual is facing financial hardship and is unable to pay for a divorce attorney, a family court judge may order the other person to pay for them.

Q: How Is Property Divided During a Divorce?

A: California is a community property state, which means that during a divorce, either the couple or the judge decides what constitutes marital property, including assets and debts, and divides them equally based on the law. There may be other factors that can influence the amount each party receives, including the existence of a prenuptial agreement.

Speak With a Seasoned Alamo, CA, Divorce Lawyer to Learn More

Not all divorces are contentious, but divorce is always more than just a simple separation: it entails the undoing of a life together. A trusted Alamo, CA, divorce lawyer can be the key to ending a divorce with peace of mind.

The family law practitioners at Tierney Law Group, PC, are equipped to handle different types of divorces. We are committed to taking care of your legal needs so you can focus on a new stage of life.

Contact us for a consultation to learn more about your options during a divorce.