What is a Divorce Decree?
A divorce decree is a legal document that finalizes the divorce process. Also known as a judgment, a divorce decree lays out any judicial orders specific to the final agreement between spouses or the court’s final rulings. A divorce decree is the written declaration of the court’s ruling ending the marriage. No divorce is final until a divorce decree is signed by the parties, the judge, and sealed by the…
Read MoreDo Sperm Donors Pay Child Support?
If you or your loved one are discussing sperm donation, you may be wondering about the rights and responsibilities associated with being a sperm donor. One responsibility of parenthood in California is child support. Does this apply to sperm donation? If so, in what situations? Privately Arranged Sperm Donation There are numerous circumstances under which men donate their sperm. They may do so through a clinical setting, or a non-clinical…
Read MoreWhat is a 730 Evaluation?
If you and your spouse have minor children and are going through or considering divorce, it is imperative you know about and understand the importance of a 730 evaluation. California family courts use a 730 evaluation as one of its many tools to settle custody and visitation disputes between parents. The courts do so in a way that serves the best interests of the minor children, not necessarily the parents….
Read MoreWhat is a Proxy Marriage?
When a couple would like to get married but are not able to be physically in the same place at the same time, they may be candidates for a proxy marriage. In a proxy marriage ceremony, a substitute, known as a proxy, stands in for the missing party. The proxy performs the wedding vows on behalf of the missing party and observes any signing and notarizing of official wedding documents….
Read MoreFiling for Bankruptcy After Divorce
Divorce is often more than an emotional struggle. It comes with many challenges, including personal and financial obstacles. When one household must divide into two separate, functioning entities, there can be issues paying bills, spousal support, child support, and other obligations. If you are considering bankruptcy before or after your divorce, the following provides a brief legal overview of the effect of bankruptcy on final divorce orders. For specific advice,…
Read MoreDo Stepparents Have Visitation Rights?
Although many stepparents consider their stepchildren to be their own children, they do not have the same legal rights as biological parents during a marriage or in the event of a divorce. The only way a stepparent has the same legal rights as a biological parent is if a stepparent adopts their stepchildren. However, it is possible for stepparents to obtain visitation rights upon divorce. The following offers general guidance…
Read MoreWhen are Drug Tests Used in Child Custody Cases?
Sadly, we must all be concerned about the misuse of drugs in our communities. However, if substance abuse is a threat to our children, it is cause for immediate action. If you suspect your co-parent of drug use or fear it may be used as a tactic against you in a custody battle, the following offers basic information about drug tests in child custody cases. Drug Testing Requires Proof Drug…
Read MoreWhen Does Child Support End in California?
Both parents are expected to support their children financially and provide for their children’s basic needs. When parents divorce, separate for any reason, or have a child outside of marriage, the court may order one parent to pay the other child support payments. Whether you are a parent paying child support in California or receiving child support, it is imperative you know how your child support is determined and at…
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