Abogado de Divorcio en Los Ángeles

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Our Los Angeles Divorce Attorneys Are Board Certified in Family Law with Over 50 Years of Experience

 

Our founding partners, Steven Fernandez, are Board-Certified Family Law Specialists with over 50 years of combined experience  handling every aspect of a divorce. This includes child custody, property division, and spousal support. Additionally, we have a team of attorneys and paralegals committed to helping you obtain the best possible outcome for your Los Angeles family law case. If you have specific questions, call us today to discuss your situation. We offer a free consultation at your convenience.

California Divorce Summary

California Family Code § 2300 defines   divorce, or dissolution of marriage, as a court order that effectively “restores both persons to the status of unmarried persons.” Once declared single again, divorcees face far-reaching, life-altering consequences, including changes in their rights and activities.

The effect of divorce on  property rights  has been a major topic of tabloid coverage in many celebrity cases. Not surprisingly, a Wikipedia page lists the  most expensive divorces . Its impact on parental rights is handled in the context of bitter  custody battles , and divorce has acquired a reputation as a highly traumatic family law experience.

Residency Requirements for a Divorce in California

Under  California Family Code § 2320  , for a judge to grant a divorce in California, one spouse must have been a resident of the state for six months, and a resident of the county where the divorce is filed for at least three months.

An exception to this rule is in the case of annulment proceedings, legal separation, or same-sex marriage.

For same-sex marriages, the following circumstances shall apply:

  • They both formed their formal relationship in California, or
  • The current residence in the state refuses to dissolve the union.

Speak with a Los Angeles family law attorney at the Fernandez Law Group if you have questions about California residency requirements.

The Waiting Period for Divorce

In California, no divorce is finalized until at least six months have passed since the divorce petition was filed and the summons has been served on the spouse or representative. If the representative appears in court before such service, the six-month period may be counted from the first appearance ( California Family Code § 2339 ).

No-Fault Divorce

Divorce in Los Angeles

California is a  no-fault divorce state.  As such, evidence of misconduct, such as infidelity, has no bearing on the judge’s decision to grant a divorce. However, evidence of misconduct can be relevant to other family law decisions, such as the calculation of  spousal support . “No-fault” simply means that the court will not blame anyone for the disintegration of the marriage.

A claim by one spouse that the marriage or domestic partnership is unworkable will suffice as grounds for dissolution. The phrase ” irreconcilable differences ” epitomizes this idea. Additionally, Los Angeles courts also allow this for divorce or legal separation if one spouse permanently lacks legal capacity.

Decisions Before the Court: The Scope of Divorce Proceedings

While a divorce is in progress, California courts may decide:

  • Who will have custody of the children,
  • How much will be the amount of child or spousal support, and
  • How to divide property.

Likewise, the courts can issue judgments regarding property rights and child custody in connection with a legal separation, without dissolving the marriage. We can help you with any aspect of family law related to divorce, including:

Since a divorce can encompass many different aspects of family law matters, it’s important to have an experienced Los Angeles attorney with a proven track record on your side.

Common-Law Couples and Same-Sex Couples Can Also Seek Divorce in California

Same-sex couples’ rights have a turbulent history in California, but the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in  Obergefell v. Hodges  found that not allowing gays and lesbians to marry was an unconstitutional violation of the Fourteenth Amendment. Since 2003, registered partnerships have the same rights and obligations as couples in California, including the right to terminate the relationship.

Dissolving a Marriage or a Common-Law Partnership

The law provides three different ways to terminate or alter the rights and responsibilities that accompany marriage, including same-sex marriage or common-law marriage:

  1. Annulment
  2. Dissolution of marriage (divorce)
  3. Legal separation

In some cases, dissolution can be completed with an accelerated procedure.

Alternatives to Divorce

Under certain circumstances, divorce may not be your best option. Two alternatives are annulment and legal separation.

Annulment is only appropriate when there is doubt about the validity of the marriage. Grounds for annulment include:

  • Fraud,
  • A spouse is under the age of majority to give legal consent, or
  • Use of force to compel marriage.

Someone might choose legal separation when the residency requirement for divorce has not been met, to maintain certain benefits, or for religious reasons. Generally, Los Angeles, California, courts cannot approve a legal separation without the consent of both parties. Spouses can later convert the separation into a divorce; in such cases, the California residency requirement cannot be waived.

Types of Divorce Matters We Handle

High Value Divorce

Money makes a divorce complicated. When you and your spouse have high-value assets, it can be difficult to figure out how they should be properly divided between the two of you. There may be arguments over whether certain high-value assets should be classified as separate or community property. It can be difficult to place a value on business interests and intellectual property rights.

It’s crucial to work with a  West Los Angeles divorce attorney  who has extensive experience handling  high-value cases . At Fernandez Law Group, our attorneys have developed valuable relationships with some of the most reputable appraisers, forensic accountants, and financial experts in the Los Angeles area. As your attorneys, we will ensure that your financial interests are protected throughout your divorce. Call us today to schedule a free consultation.

Disputed Divorce

When you divorce, you and your spouse must agree to the terms of the division. This includes family law issues such as child and spousal support requirements, custody agreements, and property division. When you cannot agree on one or more of these issues, the result is what is known as a contested divorce.

Just because your divorce is contested doesn’t mean you’ll have to go to a Los Angeles, CA, court to resolve the issues. It’s important to try to reach an agreement on your part with as little assistance as possible. Processes such as mediation, arbitration, and collaborative divorce can help you find mutually agreeable resolutions to any family disputes you may have. Our Los Angeles family law attorneys are skilled negotiators and know how to navigate emotionally charged family law matters. Call us today to find out how we can help you resolve your legal issues today.

Celebrity Divorce

Celebrity relationships don’t always stand the test of time. The pressures that come with fame and fortune can devastate a marriage. Unfortunately, celebrities often find their private relationship issues, including details about their separation and divorce, making headlines nationwide. At Fernandez Law Group, our attorneys in Los Angeles, CA, understand that divorce is an intimate family and personal matter  that shouldn’t be public knowledge. This is why we go to great lengths to ensure the details of our clients’ celebrity divorces remain confidential. Our Los Angeles celebrity divorce attorneys use alternatives to family law court to resolve celebrity divorce
cases   quietly. Private proceedings, including arbitration and mediation, can be conducted behind closed doors. Any resolution can be filed with the court privately for your protection. We will do everything in our power to protect the privacy interests of our celebrity clients. Call us today to speak with our legal team, receive some legal advice, and learn more.

LGBT Divorce

California has had expanded rights for common-law couples and marital rights for LGBT couples for several years. In 2015, the right to marry was cemented into American law. Just because gay couples have the right to marry doesn’t mean their relationships will last. In California, LGBT couples also enjoy the right to dissolve their legal relationships.

If you are in a legal LGBT marriage and want a divorce, it is important to hire an attorney who understands this complex area of law. While LGBT couples have the right to end a marriage, it can be difficult to resolve some family law issues that may be relevant to the divorce. If children are involved, determining custody and support can become complicated. You will need a Los Angeles, CA, attorney who understands the stakes and knows how to navigate these delicate matters.

At Fernandez Law Group, we are committed to providing all clients, regardless of their sexual orientation,  with the best possible legal representation during their divorce. Call us today to schedule a free consultation. We are here to provide legal advice, help protect your interests, and give you what you want from your  LGBT divorce.

Military Divorce

If you or your spouse is in the military, getting a divorce can be incredibly stressful. Unlike civilian divorces, there are additional legal issues you’ll need to consider. Where should you file your divorce papers? What types of military benefits can be shared by the non-military spouse after the divorce? How can child custody issues be resolved if the spouses live on opposite sides of the country or the world? To answer these three questions correctly, you’ll need the help of an attorney who understands  both military  and civilian divorce issues.

At Fernandez Law Group, our divorce attorneys in Los Angeles, CA, have handled military divorce matters for over 50 years. We understand that military service can be complicated, overwhelming, and emotionally draining. As your family law attorneys, our goal is to help you fight for what you want, protect your financial interests, and find the best outcome for your family. Contact our family law attorneys today to learn more.

Uncontested Divorce

Divorces do not have to be contested in Los Angeles. It is possible for the spouses to either not care or (b) agree on the terms of the separation. When a spouse simply fails to respond to the divorce papers, it is known as a default. When the spouses agree on the terms of their divorce, it is known as an uncontested divorce.

When you have an uncontested divorce, you still need to put the details of your separation into writing. You’ll need to provide the court with detailed information about your child support and custody agreements, property division, and alimony (if applicable). The court will review the proposed terms and sign off on them if they believe they are fair and legal. It may be important to hire a Los Angeles family law attorney to help you with the forms you’ll need to submit to the court. As your attorney, we’ll ensure the agreement is fair and that your rights are protected. Call our Los Angeles family law attorneys today to schedule a free consultation.

Complex Division of Ownership

Unless you have a prenuptial agreement that stipulates how assets will be divided, state law gives each spouse equal interests in marital property. In other words, spouses are entitled to half of all property owned by both spouses and/or acquired after the marriage. When you and your spouse have property that is difficult to assess, it can be difficult to figure out how these assets can be divided equitably. Things like partnership interests, intellectual property, and retirement benefits can pose a problem when you divorce.

Es importante asegurarse de que tiene a un equipo financiero con buena reputación de su lado cuando enfrenta problemas de división compleja de propiedad. En Fernandez Law Group, nuestros abogados en Los Angeles CA han desarrollado relaciones cercanas con auditores respetados, evaluadores, y expertos en finanzas forenses. Trabajamos de cerca con estos expertos para darle el mejor valor para sus activos. Una vez que hemos identificado el valor, podemos aprovechar la mesa de negociación. Determinaremos cuáles activos quiere mantener, cuales dejar ir, y pelear para mostrar sus expectativas. Llame a nuestro abogado de división compleja de propiedad en Los Ángeles hoy para aprender más.

Manutención Conyugal

Cuando se divorcia tiene el derecho de mantener el nivel de vida que tenía durante su matrimonio. En el matrimonio, por otro lado, no es común para un cónyuge ganar significativamente más que el otro. Esto puede ser un problema cuando la pareja ya no está junta. La manutención conyugal puede adquirirse para ayudar al cónyuge con ingresos más bajos a mantener su estilo de vida y seguir adelante después de la disolución del matrimonio.

En Los Ángeles, California, una variedad de factores se incluyen al calcular la manutención conyugal. Esto incluye ganancias, habilidad de ingresos, contribuciones al matrimonio, sacrificios del otro cónyuge, edad y necesidades financieras y de salud. La manutención conyugal es un problema muy disputado frecuentemente. En Fernandez Law Group, nuestros abogados de Los Angeles CA están preparados para ayudarle a pelear o para impugnar una solicitud de pensión alimenticia. Revisaremos con cuidado los asuntos de ley familiar y desarrollaremos un argumento que apoye su posición. Llámenos hoy para aprender más.

Custodia Infantil

El divorcio se hace mucho más complicado cuando los hijos están involucrados. En Los Angeles, California, ambos padres comparten un derecho igual para estar presentes en la vida de sus hijos. Cuando los padres deciden separarse, no es común que las disputas de ley familiar sobre con quien y donde el niño debería vivir, surjan. Cualquier decisión sobre la custodia infantil debe hacerse en base al mejor interés del corazón del niño. Puede ser importante para los padres poner sus sentimientos personales de lado y hacer lo que es mejor para su hijo pequeño. Sin embargo, hay veces que las batallas sobre la custodia se hacen negativas y adversas. Es importante tener a un abogado de ley familiar con experiencia en Los Ángeles de su lado para asegurarse que su familia está protegida.
En Fernandez Law Group, nuestros abogados de custodia infantil en Los Angeles pelearán para hacer lo que sea mejor para usted y sus hijos. La mejor solución típicamente involucra sentarse con un tercero neutral, que identifique los intereses de ambos padres y los niños, y trabajar en un acuerdo mutuo accesible. Si esto no funciona, buscaremos evidencia para apoyar la búsqueda de la custodia. Llámenos hoy para saber más.

Manutencion Infantil

Cuando los padres se divorcian es importante asegurarse que las necesidades financieras de los niños se cumplan. De hecho, las cortes de Los Ángeles, California se aseguran de que una orden válida de Manutención Infantil se disponga antes de que la disolución del matrimonio finalice. Mientras que ambos padres tienen la obligación de brindar a los hijos, los requisitos del apoyo tienden a caer en los hombre del padre que:

  • Gana más dinero y/o,
  • Pasa el menor tiempo con el niño.

En Los Ángeles, California, la manutención infantil es determinada usando una Directriz Uniforme Para Todo el Estado. Esto es básicamente una fórmula que analiza una variedad de factores, incluyendo los ingresos de cada padre, contribuciones no financieras, y tiempo invertido con el niño. La única manera de aumentar la manutención de la custodia es cambiando los factores que van en esta ecuación.

Usted necesita a un abogado de ley familiar con experiencia en Los Ángeles que se asegurará de que cualquier determinación con la manutención infantil sea calculada usando la mejor información posible. En Fernandez Law Group, haremos justo eso. También nos aseguraremos que otros aspectos relevantes, incluyendo la custodia del niño y el porcentaje de tiempo compartido son finalizados teniendo las obligaciones de apoyo en mente. Un problema de divorcio puede afectar a otros. Es importante trabajar con un abogado de ley familiar que entienda el proceso enredoso proceso del divorcio. Llame a un abogado de manutención infantil en Los Angeles CA hoy para agendar su consulta gratis.

Herramientas Para Ayudar el Proceso del Divorcio

Divorciarse le afectará a usted, a su cónyuge, y a su familia por el resto de sus vidas. Es importante saber la importancia de las decisiones que toma a través del proceso del divorcio. Mientras que la corte de Los Angeles CA puede intervenir en las decisiones sobre su futuro y el de su familia, siempre es mejor intentar resolver los problemas por su cuenta. ¿Por que? Hay tres razones: control, costo y privacidad.

Control: Cuando la corte toma decisiones en su nombre, usted no tiene control del resultado. Negociar privadamente los términos de sus problemas de ley familiar con su cónyuge le permite mantener al menos cierto grado de control.

Costo: Ir a la corte es caro. Una gran manera de minimizar los costos de su divorcio u otros asuntos de ley familiar es tomar las decisiones por su cuenta.

Privacidad: Muchos cónyuges que se están divorciando, particularmente celebridades y personas de alto valor, no quieren que los detalles de sus vidas personales sean públicos. En la elección de las negociaciones privadas, los cónyuges pueden mantener un escudo de privacidad sobre los procesos de ley familiar. Cualquier acuerdo enviado a la corte puede ser sellado para su protección.

Cuando se divorcia, nadie espera que usted y su cónyuge estén atentos a todo. Hay una razón por la cual están terminando su matrimonio. Afortunadamente, hay herramientas disponibles que están diseñadas para ayudar a los cónyuges a encontrar un camino en común, identificando cuestiones de gran imagen, y tomar decisiones que funcionen para la familia entera.

Mediación del Divorcio

La mediación puede ser su mejor opción si usted y su cónyuge pueden estar de acuerdo en algunos pero no todos los aspectos de su divorcio. En la mediación, usted y su cónyuge (y su abogado de ley familiar, si usted quiere) se sientan con un tercero neutral conocido cómo mediador. No es común para un mediador ser un abogado de ley familiar retirado y/o juez.

El mediador trabaja con usted y su cónyuge, ambos, individualmente y juntos, para ayudarles a llegar a soluciones de un acuerdo mutuo. Su trabajo es identificar problemas, encontrar un bien común y llevar las negociaciones en una dirección positiva. Usted y su cónyuge mantienen el control al 100%. Si ustedes pueden estar de acuerdo en los términos de su divorcio, el mediador elaborará un contrato obligatorio. Una vez que se firme, estarán obligados a cumplir con sus términos.

Divorcio Colaborativo

El divorcio colaborativo no es cómo una mediación. Sin embargo, en lugar de trabajar con un tercero neutral, usted y su cónyuge confiaran en su abogado de ley familiar para resolver sus problemas. Esto le permite mantener control sobre el resultado de su divorcio. Durante este proceso, ambos abogados tienen el derecho de ofrecer evidencia y presentar testigos que puedan apoyar el caso de su cliente.

The collaborative divorce process requires a signed commitment from you. Once you decide to pursue this option, you both must agree to resolve your family law issues without going to court. If you can’t resolve your issues, you’ll have to start from scratch. You’ll need to hire a new family law attorney and begin negotiations from scratch.

Arbitrary Divorce

An arbitration is essentially a private trial. You, your attorney, and your spouse meet for a formal hearing before a neutral third party known as the arbitrator. Both parties have the opportunity to offer arguments, question witnesses, and present evidence.

The arbitrator has the authority to make unilateral decisions about your future. As a result, you will essentially have to give up the right to make decisions that will affect your life. Any decisions made by the arbitrator will be detailed in a formal contract. Once you and your spouse sign it, you will be legally bound to comply with its terms.

Speak with a Los Angeles Divorce Attorney at Fernandez Law Group Today

At Fernandez Law Group, our divorce attorneys have over 100 years of combined experience.  Additionally, attorney Steven Fernandez is a Board Certified Family Law Specialist with experience handling complex divorce cases. If you need further assistance, please contact us today for a free consultation by calling 310-622-9434 .

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