Recent Blog Posts

What is a Joint Petition for a Divorce?
In California, as in other states, divorces no longer need to be based on “fault,” such as adultery or cruelty–either party can petition for divorce simply based on a breakdown of the marriage. Only one party needs to file; the other party cannot stop the divorce simply by disagreeing. However, there are advantages to… Read More »

What is Common Law Marriage?
Many people have heard the myth that if you live together with your romantic partner for seven years, you are “common law married.” If you break up after seven years, the myth suggests, you can ask for alimony and property division. While common law marriage does exist, as with most things in the law,… Read More »

What is a Pro Se Divorce?
People facing the prospect of divorce have a lot to consider, and one of the main sources of concern is the cost. Divorces cost money, and it’s important to consider how to keep those costs low. Many people are aware that they can file for divorce “pro se” but are not sure exactly how… Read More »

When Are Drug Tests Used in Child Custody Cases?
California is a no-fault divorce state. Not only does California permit couples to divorce based on no-fault grounds (legally known as “irreconcilable differences”), California no longer even allows couples to file for divorce based on alleged fault. There are circumstances, however, under which certain bad acts can affect a divorce proceeding. Domestic abuse, criminal… Read More »

How Long Does California Military Divorce Take?
Divorce never comes at an easy time. If one spouse is an active-duty servicemember, the divorce proceedings can become that much more complicated. A number of issues unique to military divorces may arise which can complicate or delay the proceedings. Below, our knowledgeable Claremont military divorce attorneys discuss complications that can come up in… Read More »

What are the Current Alimony Tax Laws?
Reaching a favorable and fair divorce settlement requires a lot of care and consideration. It’s not enough to look at the relative income and assets of each party. It’s important to also take into consideration the additional consequences of all aspects of the divorce, including payment of mortgages and other debts, insurance costs and… Read More »

Difference Between Legal Separation and Divorce in CA?
Unlike many states, California has a process for “legal separation.” Legal separation is similar to divorce but different in key respects. Continue reading to learn how legal separation operates in California, and reach out to a seasoned Claremont divorce and separation attorney for advice and representation in a Southern California family law matter. What… Read More »

How to Get Marriage Annulled in CA
Annulment is significantly rarer than divorce. Whereas divorce ends a marriage, an annulment will make it as if the marriage never took place. Legally, the parties will revert to “single,” as opposed to divorced. There are specific requirements to obtain an annulment. Below, we discuss the grounds for obtaining an annulment and the procedure… Read More »

What are the Laws for Establishing Paternity in California?
Having a legal parental relationship with a child carries with it a number of legal rights and obligations, including rights for the child to medical insurance coverage and inheritance, the right for the parent to make medical decisions, as well as obligations concerning child support and child care. When a mother gives birth to… Read More »

What is Parental Kidnapping?
When the court issues a final divorce decree, the pronouncements in that order have the force of law. Preventing the other parent from exercising their custody or parenting time rights is a violation of the court’s order, carrying the risk of serious sanctions. In more serious cases, the conduct may amount to parental abduction,… Read More »