Seasoned Divorce Attorney in Redondo Beach, CA
Going through a divorce can be one of the hardest and most emotional events of your life. It’s vital that you do whatever you can to protect yourself, your assets, and your children. It’s common for a vindictive spouse to try to take everything from you, and if you aren’t prepared, they could. A divorce is a chance to choose yourself and prioritize your own future happiness. A reputable and experienced Redondo Beach divorce lawyer can help you accomplish that.
The legal team at Kramer & Zitser, LLP knows how complicated and overwhelming a divorce case can be for a family. Having a qualified Redondo Beach divorce attorney in your corner can be an invaluable resource. Our firm is a combination of two highly skilled and dedicated attorneys who can bring a combined 50 years of experience to your divorce case. We know how to help you.
The Most Important Elements of a Redondo Beach, California Divorce
If your Redondo Beach divorce is decided in court rather than through mediation, then your case is handled by the Los Angeles County Superior Court, Southwest District, more specifically, the Torrance Courthouse in nearby Torrance on Maple Avenue.
Divorce cases are quite common throughout California, despite a marriage rate of 5.5 per 1,000 people. In fact, 10.1% of California women and 7.1% of California men are divorced.
Every divorce case is different. Each divorce has its own unique contributing factors that must be taken into consideration. Depending on how you choose to proceed with your divorce, it could end up being a lengthy, expensive, and stressful situation. It’s important that you consult with a well-versed divorce attorney to learn about your options going forward.
A Redondo Beach divorce lawyer can identify the most important legal elements of your California divorce case and explain how they may affect the outcome for you. Some of the most common and contested areas of divorce cases are listed below:
- No-fault grounds. California is a no-fault divorce state, which means that neither party is required to prove any wrongdoing that led to the end of the marriage. The only legal grounds to file under are irreconcilable differences or permanent legal incapacity. If there was wrongdoing, such as infidelity, it shouldn’t impact the financial split.
- Asset division. California’s divorce laws favor a 50-50 split. In a community property state, marital assets are split evenly between both spouses. Any separate property, such as assets owned before marriage, inheritances, gifts to one spouse, personal injury settlements, or earnings accumulated after the date of legal separation, is not subject to division. However, if it was commingled with marital assets, it can be tricky to identify.
- Child custody. Determining custody can be one of the hardest parts of a divorce. California child custody laws prioritize the best interest of the child. California family courts favor joint custody when possible. Redondo Beach divorce attorney can be a great resource in helping resolve child custody issues within a divorce case.
- Spousal support. Depending on each spouse’s financial situation, the higher-earning spouse may be required to pay the lower-earning spouse a certain amount in ongoing spousal support, or alimony. The court considers the total length of the marriage, the standard of living established by the marriage, and each spouse’s financial needs.
California Divorce Residency Requirements
Anyone filing for a California divorce must meet the residency requirements set forth in the California Family Code. Either one of the parties needs to have resided in the state for at least six months prior to filing. In addition, either spouse needs to have resided in their current county for at least 90 days prior to filing. Without proper guidance on legal details like this one, a divorce can take much longer if mistakes are met with delays.
FAQs
What Is the Average Cost of a Divorce Lawyer in California?
There is no average or estimated cost of a divorce lawyer in California. Every divorce lawyer charges differently for their services. Also, many factors can affect the cost of a divorce, including whether the divorce is contested or uncontested, the lawyer’s experience and education levels, or the spouses’ willingness to compromise. The longer a divorce takes, the more it’s going to cost.
Who Loses the Most in a Divorce in California?
In a California divorce, the spouse who loses the most tends to be the one who isn’t the primary breadwinner. The spouse who sacrificed a career to raise a family and hasn’t worked on their own in a while generally suffers considerably in the immediate aftermath of a divorce. This is the main reason courts often order spousal support to be paid by the higher-earning party to the lower-earning party.
What Is the First Thing I Should Do if I Want a Divorce?
The first thing you should do if you choose to divorce your spouse is get your finances under lock and key. Secure, inventory, and organize your financial documents as quickly and quietly as possible. Don’t try to hide assets, as that’s illegal, but secure your money in plain sight. When your spouse learns of your plans to divorce, they may try to empty your accounts. Set up a separate bank account to establish independent financial stability.
Should I Hire a Divorce Lawyer?
Yes, you should hire a divorce lawyer. Divorces in California can be unpredictable and financially devastating, especially if your spouse believes they are entitled to more than they are by law or you think they may be hiding assets. Even if you have a prenuptial agreement, a good family law divorce attorney can help protect your assets.
Connect with a Local Redondo Beach, CA Divorce Attorney
Going through a divorce can be a very difficult time for you, especially if you were not the one who filed. It’s understandable to feel betrayed, angry, confused, and even scared about the future. Throughout it all, you need to be prepared to defend your position and challenge your spouse for what you feel is right. At Kramer & Zitser, LLP, our Redondo Beach family lawyers can help you prepare, plan, and carry out your case. Contact us to speak with a team member about your divorce.
