Nobody enters into a marriage expecting it to end in divorce. The reality is, however, that a dissolution of marriage may be necessary to help you move forward in your life. If you are considering filing for divorce in Los Angeles, you need to speak with a family law attorney as early in the process as possible.
For more than three decades, Stolar Law Group has provided Southern California individuals and families with high-quality advocacy combined with a genuine desire to protect our clients’ well-being. Knowledgeable and responsive, our experienced attorneys build strong cases to protect the best interests of our clients and call on experts when needed.
Our lawyers know the ins and outs of the divorce process, from the reorganization of financial matters to the restructuring of legal issues. When you come to Stolar Law Group, you can be confident knowing we remain focused on you from start to finish. Contact our office at (424) 421-0009 today to schedule a confidential consultation.
Are You Facing a Contested Divorce in Beverly Hills or Sherman Oaks?
One of the most common types of divorce in California is a contested divorce. A contested divorce occurs when the two parties do not agree on one or more of the issues or terms of the divorce. It is strongly recommended that both parties work with an attorney to resolve disputed terms of the divorce.
At Stolar Law Group, we handle a wide variety of matters involving divorce, including:
Whether your divorce is contested or uncontested, you should consult with an attorney prior to signing an agreement. An attorney can help ensure that your interests and assets are protected. Divorce is never easy, but the process can be made smoother.
What Are California’s Divorce Laws?
California is a no-fault state. A couple need only cite “irreconcilable differences” to end their marriage. This means that a spouse does not need to show cause in order to get a divorce. However, in order to get a divorce in California, the law requires you to meet certain criteria.
First, you or your spouse must meet residency requirements. To file for a divorce in California, you or your spouse must have lived in the state for the past six months. You must also have lived in your county for the past three months.
Next, you will need to file the appropriate paperwork. You will have to file a Petition - Marriage/Domestic Partnership and a Summons (Family Law). The summons notifies your spouse that you have filed a petition for divorce and gives them 30 days to respond.
Finally, you will need to determine any additional filings that need to be made in your case and file them with the appropriate court. The divorce process can be complicated and made more challenging if the paperwork is not properly filled out or filed. An attorney can help ensure that all legal requirements are met, saving you time and money.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Divorce in California?
The amount of time it takes to get a divorce in California may vary depending on the circumstances of your case, particularly if you have a contested divorce versus an uncontested divorce.
California is one of the few states with a set waiting period, which is six months, beginning after the spouse is served with divorce papers. Therefore, you will have to wait a minimum of six months before your divorce will be finalized. Contested divorces could take a year or more to resolve.
Do I Need a Divorce Lawyer in California?
If any issue or term of your divorce is disputed, you should consult with an attorney to determine the best course of action. Contested divorces can be contentious and should be handled with the help of a legal advocate.
When a couple is able to come to an agreement about the terms of their divorce, including property division, child custody, spousal support, and other related matters, the divorce is considered uncontested. However, just because a divorce is uncontested does not preclude the need for an attorney. Various issues may arise, especially concerning the long-term impact of any decisions made.
At Stolar Law Group, we can help:
- Review the terms you have agreed to and ensure that all necessary points have been considered
- Draft the divorce agreement
- Finalize and submit the agreement to the court on your behalf
There are serious hazards in DIY divorces, and we sincerely feel our clients benefit from our services. At Stolar Law Group, we can guide you through the process of getting a divorce and protect your rights throughout the process. We will clearly explain the steps and your rights so you can make informed decisions at every stage of your divorce.
How Much Does it Cost to Get a Divorce in Beverly Hills or Sherman Oaks?
At a minimum, each spouse will need to file a $435 filing fee to get a divorce in California. You will each need to also factor in photocopying and mailing fees. If you hire a divorce attorney (and it is recommended that you do), the additional cost depends on the lawyer’s fees and the complexity of the case.
Our firm can assist with:
Our firm will help do everything possible to resolve your divorce favorably as quickly as possible. Contact our firm today to schedule a confidential consultation.
Contact Stolar Law Group Today
If you are considering filing for divorce in Beverly Hills or Sherman Oaks, contact Stolar Law Group to speak directly with an attorney about your case. All consultations are confidential and provided without obligation to retain our services.
Stolar Law Group founder, Steven R. Stolar is well-versed in handling even the most complex divorce cases. He has over 40 years of experience and has dedicated his practice to family law matters. Contact the firm today at (424) 421-0009 for the client-focused representation you need and deserve.
