Dissolution of Marriage

Dissolution of Marriage in the State of California

Divorce is never easy, but if you understand the requirements and the options available to you, then the divorce process can often proceed smoothly and with little interruption – and having an experienced attorney definitely helps!

The California Divorce Process

The State of California is a “no fault” state, which means that no one spouse can be “at fault” for the divorce. All marriages in California are dissolved due to irreconcilable differences. California is also considered a community property state, which means that all assets and debts are divided equally between the two parties. As such, the discovery and deposition process during the pre-trial and pre-settlement phases of your divorce is extremely crucial to the outcome of your divorce. The information discovered during this phase of the divorce is used to file motions and request orders. An experienced divorce lawyer can assist you throughout the divorce process to ensure that you do not miss any critical deadlines.

A San Diego County Divorce

First of all, In order to file for divorce in San Diego County, one of the divorcing parties must have lived in the State of California for six months and in San Diego for at least three months before filing for divorce in the county. Other states and counties could have other requirements – so please consult your state and local government.

If you or your spouse meets the residency requirements for terminating your marriage in San Diego, then there are several options available to you, including:

• Legal Separation – this option is available for couples who are not ready to terminate their marriage yet but want to be considered separate for legal and tax liability purposes.
• Annulment – this option may be sought in certain situations where marriages are considered void under California’s Family Code
• Dissolution of Marriage – this option is the “traditional” divorce available to most married couples
• Summary Dissolution of Marriage – this option is available to couples who have been married less than five years, have minimal assets, and no children

The San Diego divorce process can be long and difficult—especially without the right legal representation. As emotions run high, even simple decisions can seem impossible and divorcing couples often find it difficult to reach amicable agreements regarding the distribution of their assets and the custody and care of their children. During this tumultuous time, an experienced San Diego divorce attorney is essential to protecting your rights, your assets, and your family.

California Divorce Mediation – Another Option

Mediation is a popular approach to divorce resolution because it is often less expensive and faster than traditional divorce litigation. It also allows the divorcing couple the chance to maintain relationships and make the crucial decisions that involve their children and their assets. Unlike litigation, the divorcing couple controls the outcome of the divorce with the help of experienced mediators. In litigation and arbitration, many of those final decisions are made by a judge or arbitrator. Divorce mediation works well for couples who want to retain control over the final divorce decisions, those who need to work together to raise children, and those who wish to resolve their differences amicably. San Diego divorce attorney Shana Black can assist you with all of your San Diego mediation needs and concerns.

Shana Black – On Your Side

When you decide to divorce, there are many decisions that must be made, such as: Who will care for your children? Who will get the house? How will you determine life insurance, benefits, and taxes? As such, you need an experienced divorce attorney on your side from the moment you decide to file for a divorce.

San Diego divorce lawyer Shana Black understands the complications that can arise during the divorce process. As such, she works meticulously to protect your rights and your family’s future. She has successfully represented numerous divorcing couples and their families in San Diego through their divorce proceedings. Call 1-619-557-0122 or email info@shanablack.com to learn more about all of your San Diego divorce options.