Important Topics in Divorce Cases in California

Divorce and annulment are the two legal mechanisms for ending a marriage under California law. The majority of couples must obtain a divorce settlement agreement. Annulment is only applicable in specific cases. A divorce settlement agreement will typically resolve legal issues regarding child support, property valuation, spousal support, and child custody rights.

If domestic violence has occurred during the marriage, you may need to petition the court to issue a restraining order or other forms of legal protection. If the parties cannot agree on a settlement of legal issues, then the court may have to determine issues related to child custody and property division.

Mediation is a common method of resolving legal disputes in a divorce proceeding. During mediation, a neutral third party will facilitate discussions between the parties and attempt to bring the parties to some level of compromise regarding contentious matters over which the parties disagree.

Hire a Divorce Lawyer

Working with a divorce lawyer can help you feel less anxiety and stress regarding how you can protect your legal rights during a divorce case. When you hire a divorce lawyer, you are hiring an advocate who can represent you in and out of court. A skilled divorce attorney can file motions on your behalf, engage in legal arguments, and cross-examine witnesses if your case goes to trial.

Cases in Moreno Valley are handled by the Superior Court of California, County of Riverside. Family law documents related to divorce, child custody, and support orders are public records in California. Our firm is also equipped to handle family law matters for Spanish-speaking clients across Moreno Valley.

About Us

E. Steve Najera earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Santa Cruz. He earned his law degree from Western State University College of Law in Fullerton, California. He has worked as a deputy trial attorney at the Orange County Public Defender’s Office, and he is the lead counsel at Najera Law Group, APC, on all family law matters. He also represents clients at Domestic Violence Restraining Order hearings.

Divorce Statistics

In 2023, approximately 672,502 divorces occurred in forty-five states and the District of Columbia. A third of adults in the United States who have ever been married have also experienced divorce.

FAQs

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Divorce Lawyer in California?

The cost to hire a divorce lawyer in California will depend on the complexity of the case and how many years the attorney has been practicing law. Most divorce lawyers charge a retainer or an hourly rate for all legal work performed in a divorce case. To get an estimate of how much it may cost to hire a divorce lawyer in California, you should speak to an attorney about your case during a consultation.

Why Is Moving Out the Biggest Mistake in a Divorce?

Moving out of the home during a divorce in California is often considered a mistake because it can damage child custody arrangements, cause financial strain due to paying for two households, and weaken your claim to the residence. The remaining spouse may be considered the primary caregiver, and this can make it more difficult for you to secure the home in a final settlement.

Does My Wife Get Half My Debt in Divorce?

California is a community property state, and your wife is typically responsible for fifty percent of debts incurred during the marriage until the date of separation. This applies even if the debt is only in your name. Debts incurred before the marriage or after a separation are considered separate property. Loans, household expenses, and credit cards acquired during the marriage are typically split equally.

Who Has to Leave the House in a Divorce in California?

Under California law, neither spouse must leave the family home after a divorce petition is filed with the court. California is a community property state, and both spouses have equal rights to the home, even if the residence was purchased before marriage or only one spouse is on the deed. Without a court order, you cannot force your spouse to leave, and your spouse cannot force you to leave.

Reach Out to a Moreno Valley Divorce Attorney Today to Schedule a Free Consultation

Divorce is often an emotionally draining and stressful experience. If you are considering retaining a divorce lawyer in Moreno Valley, then you should focus on working with an experienced, skilled, and knowledgeable legal professional. Retaining legal counsel can allow you to understand the legal options available to you during your divorce case.

If you are searching for a divorce lawyer, contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We can examine the facts of your case and review potential case strategies to help you protect your assets and your legal rights. We have years of experience representing clients in Moreno Valley, both in English and Spanish. Reach out to us so we can begin working on your family law matter.