The California divorce process begins with one spouse filing for divorce. Papers will be served on the other spouse, who must file a response with the court within a specific period of time. Decisions will be made on custody, asset division, responsibility for marital debts, spousal and child support, and the judge will also dissolve the marriage, or marital status. Issues of spousal fiduciary duties will also be examined during the case.
While it sounds simple and straightforward, anyone who is considering ending a marriage knows that the process can be emotionally difficult and legally complicated. It is essential that you understand your rights, make informed choices and protect yourself throughout the process. Brown & Charbonneau, LLP is here to help.
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We can help in the following areas:
- Divorce & Legal Separation
- Spousal Support
- Child Support
- Same Sex Marriages & Domestic Partnerships
- Breach of Fiduciary Duty
- Division of Assets
- Domestic Abuse & Restraining Orders
- Marvin and “Palimony” Claims
- Modifications
- Mediation Services
Getting Help from a California Divorce Lawyer
Brown & Charbonneau, LLP provides the compassionate and skilled legal representation you need during your divorce. Our attorneys have more than 75 years of collective experience representing clients ending their marriages. Although we have the skills, resources and abilities of a big law firm, we provide the personalized and attentive services of a boutique firm.
Our lawyers are award-winning, have a track record of successfully representing clients during divorces, and offer evening and weekend hours so we can work on your schedule. Our rates are competitive and we focus on providing low-cost legal solutions. We also offer Spanish language services.
If you need a divorce attorney who will help you to make the best choices throughout the divorce process, now is the time to act. Call today at 714-505-3000 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you.
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Your California Divorce Settlement
When a divorce occurs, it is preferable for the couple to negotiate the terms of a divorce settlement outside of court. Spouses may work together with the help of their lawyers, a mediator or a collaborative divorce coach to come to an agreement on issues relevant to their divorce.
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No one knows better than you what property is most important to you or what custody arrangement will work best for your child and your family. With the help of your Orange County divorce lawyer, you can create a divorce settlement agreement that works for your family. Your lawyer will advise you on how the court is likely to decide issues so you can make informed choices during settlement negotiations.
At Brown & Charbonneau, LLP, we have helped many clients create a settlement agreement that protects their interests, while also avoiding the money, stress and time associated with going to court. There are many other issues as well, like who stays in the house? Or, who pays the attorneys fees?
If you cannot agree on a divorce settlement, then our Orange County, divorce attorneys will help you to make the most compelling arguments possible to persuade the judge to rule in your favor on the terms of your divorce.
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California Divorce Laws
California law has clear guidelines for how judges must make decisions if your case goes to court. For example:
- The California child support formula determines a set amount of support a parent is to pay based on, among other things, family income. A parent’s support obligation will also be affected by other financial obligations and time spent caring for the children.
- California rules for spousal maintenance (also known as alimony) consider factors including the length of the marriage, the parties’ work history and education, each party’s salary , and the earning potential of each spouse. Maintenance may be temporary or permanent, if it is awarded at all.
- California uses the “best interests of the child” standard and awards custody to parents based on what is best for the children. Many factors are used to determine what is best for the children, including the health, safety and welfare of the child, and which parent is the parent that will promote frequent and continuing contact with both parents.
- Being a community property state, California statutes strive to ensure an equitable and equal division of property acquired during the marriage.
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Your Irvine divorce lawyer at Brown & Charbonneau, LLP will explain how these laws apply to your divorce and will do everything possible to help ensure your finances and important relationships are protected.