Malibu Divorce Attorney

Why Should You Hire a Malibu Divorce Attorney?

If you require a Malibu divorce lawyer, partners Steven Fernandez and Mark Karney are Certified Family Law Specialists with over 50 years of combined experience dealing with every element of divorce. Furthermore, they have a group of lawyers, paralegals, and support staff members devoted to accomplishing the best possible result for your unique circumstances. This experienced group includes partner Crystal Boultinghouse, who specializes in the litigation of high-conflict family law issues.

California Family Code § 2300 specifies divorce, or dissolution of a traditional marital relationship or domestic partnership of same-sexed individuals, as a judge’s order that successfully “restores the parties to the state of unmarried persons.” Once the individuals are declared single again, divorcees deal with significant, life-altering effects and modifications in their rights, responsibilities, and financial status.

A certified family law specialist firm, such as Fernandez & Karney divorce attorneys in Malibu, CA can help you navigate child custody and child support issues in your case. If you are wondering whether it is worth getting a divorce lawyer, schedule a free consultation with an attorney to learn more.

How Much Does a Divorce Lawyer Malibu Cost?

Since navigating the law can be tricky, in most cases, it is wise to hire a divorce lawyer in Los Angeles. Although individual cases vary, the total cost of the proceedings is between $12,500 and $15,300 (based on the hourly rates of the Malibu divorce attorney’s law firm). Simpler cases are often more affordable to resolve since less time will be required.

It’s important to note that cost isn’t the only concern when you’re getting divorced. You also have to make sure you meet California’s residency requirements. For a judge to approve a divorce in California, the partners should have been citizens of the state for six months, and in the county where they filed for a minimum of three months.

An exception to this guideline is allowed when it comes to nullity procedures, legal separation, or same-sex marital relationships.

Important Information about Divorce from Your Malibu Attorneys

In California, no divorce is final for a minimum of six months, so the more quickly you hire your Malibu divorce lawyers, the faster you can begin the next chapter of your life. This includes the filing of the divorce petition and summons having been served to the non-filing partner. In addition, if the respondent appears in court before, the six-month period may start from that appearance.

California is a no-fault divorce state, meaning the court will not designate blame for the disintegration of the marital relationship. Although evidence of misbehavior, such as cheating or domestic violence, might be considered when determining spousal assistance or child support, it has no bearing on the judge’s choice to approve the divorce. A basis for the dissolution could be a claim by one spouse that the marriage or domestic partnership is defunct or that “irreconcilable differences” exist.

The courts may also permit divorce or legal separation if one of the partners has become legally incapacitated. This is a complex issue that a Westlake Village law practice may be able to help you understand.

A divorce can encompass many different family law legal issues, including child custody and child support. That is why it’s crucial to have a certified family law specialist on your side. When you retain the services of Fernandez & Karney, you can rest assured that your case will be handled successfully and in a timely manner by a highly-qualified family law attorney in Los Angeles.

Family Law Attorneys Malibu or Santa Monica

Although family law attorneys in Malibu can assist you, it is the courts who decide the following aspects of your separation:

• Child custody
• The amount of child support
• The division of the property

Although the state’s primary goal is to make sure children have frequent contact with both parents, these family issues are not so straightforward in cases there is child abuse or threat to the child’s health. In child custody family law matters, courts also consider the best interest of the child.

Considering the cost of living in Malibu, California, establishing a proper amount of child support is crucial to parents. Both parents have equal responsibility for the support of their minor children. However, one parent can claim a deduction for hardship in certain circumstances. A court can also make a temporary order for the payment of support in case child support is the subject of dispute between the parents. A family law attorney can provide detailed information regarding these legal issues.

When it comes to the division of the property, many believe that a couple’s property is divided into equal halves. But, family law in Malibu, CA, is not that simple. Division of the estate and assets may depend on several factors, including when the property was acquired, how it was purchased, as well as whether a written agreement regarding the property exists.

To get a better understanding of how the court determines these things, peruse the resources on our site, or reach out to speak with one of our team. As a certified family Malibu divorce attorney, we provide a free assessment of your case. Contact us today.