Divorce is never easy, and when children are involved, the stakes feel even higher. A major question parents face is, Who gets the house in a divorce with children? Your home is more than just a property: it is a place where your children feel safe and secure. The thought of losing it can be overwhelming. If you struggle...
Continue ReadingDivorcing without splitting assets in California depends on what kind of property you have and whether both spouses agree. California is a community property state, which means property and debts acquired during marriage are generally treated as belonging to both spouses. In most cases, community property must be divided equally unless the spouses reach a valid agreement. That does...
Continue ReadingAlimony in California, also called spousal support, is not automatic. A spouse may be denied support, receive reduced support, or lose support later depending on income, earning ability, marriage length, remarriage, cohabitation, agreements, domestic violence, and other court factors. Some situations can end support completely, such as remarriage of the supported spouse unless the parties agreed otherwise. Other situations,...
Continue ReadingIf you are going through or considering a divorce in California, you are likely aware that financial preparation is a crucial step in the process. Some research suggests that California stands out as the costliest state for divorces. So, how much does it cost to file for divorce in California? The actual cost can vary significantly, depending on several...
Continue ReadingDivorce can be particularly intimidating for unemployed spouses who often face significant financial uncertainty during the already stressful time. Thankfully, California law offers protections for unemployed spouses throughout the divorce process. This article discusses the rights of unemployed spouses in a divorce in San Francisco, including spousal support, a just division of marital assets, and the role of protective...
Continue ReadingMarriage can be one of life’s most rewarding relationships, but it can also come with complex challenges. In California, a state known for its diversity and fast-paced lifestyle, many couples face struggles that ultimately lead to divorce. Understanding the top five reasons for divorce in California can offer clarity for those trying to make sense of their own marital...
Continue ReadingThe short answer is yes, you can absolutely get a divorce in California without a lawyer. California law does not require you to have legal representation to dissolve your marriage. If you and your spouse agree on everything and have relatively simple finances, handling the process yourself—often called a “DIY divorce”—can save you thousands of dollars in legal fees....
Continue ReadingWhen people decide it is time to end their marriage, many wonder, What is the first step when you want a divorce? You might think that filing your divorce petition is the first action you should take. But your first step may come way before you file. You might have a premarital or marital agreement, or you might be...
Continue ReadingDivorce is rarely a celebration, especially if one spouse does not want to end the relationship or, at least, does not want to complete the legal separation process. If you or your spouse are considering divorce contrary to the other’s wishes, you may wonder, What happens if I refuse to sign the divorce papers? What happens if they refuse?...
Continue ReadingIn California, a divorce cannot become final until at least six months after the other spouse is served or first appears in the case, whichever comes first (Family Code section 2339). Here is when that clock starts, what you can do while it runs, and the new 2026 option for couples who file together. If you need help with...
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