Divorce, by its very nature, is a process fraught with emotional turmoil and legal complexity. When it escalates into a high-conflict situation, the emotional and financial toll on both parties can be enormous. High-conflict divorces are characterized by ongoing disputes, deep-seated animosity, and the inability to reach amicable agreements. Such conflicts not only prolong the process but also affect the mental well-being of the individuals involved and, if present, their children. However, with the right strategies and a proactive approach, it is possible to navigate these troubled waters mor ..read more

Despite their name, child custody disputes often become about the parents rather than the best interests of the kids. When this happens, it’s all too easy for children to wind up in difficult or even harmful situations without easy access to legal recourse. That’s why California, like many states, has recognized the importance of ensuring that children’s voices and best interests are represented during these proceedings.  One of the key mechanisms for giving kids a voice is through the appointment of a Guardian ad Litem (GAL). This article explores the role of Guardians ad Litem in Califo ..read more

Divorce is a challenging process that becomes even more complex when it involves issues of immigration and property ownership. If you’re navigating a divorce in California and either you or your spouse is an immigrant, it’s essential to understand how these factors can affect the division of property. California’s laws on divorce, property division, and immigration can impact your rights and obligations. Here’s what you need to know about asset ownership in the context of a divorce involving immigration issues. California: What It Means to Be a Community Property State California is a communit ..read more

Divorce is a complex and emotional process that involves untangling not only personal relationships but also financial ones. In California, understanding community property laws is crucial for anyone going through a divorce, as these laws significantly impact the division of assets. Here’s how these laws work and how to address them in your divorce.  What Is Community Property? Community property refers to the legal notion that both spouses jointly own most assets and debts acquired during the marriage. This concept is based on the idea that marriage is a partnership where both parties co ..read more

Temporary orders are common in California divorces, but they’re often misunderstood. These short-term orders play a pivotal role in outlining the rights and responsibilities of each party during the divorce proceedings before everything is finalized. Let’s delve into the various types of temporary orders, their potential impact on those going through a divorce in California, and how to request one in your split.  What Are Temporary Orders? A temporary order is a legal decision made by a court during the divorce process, intended to address important issues while the divorce is being final ..read more

Divorce is a significant decision that impacts various aspects of life. For those contemplating the end of their marriage in California, timing can play a crucial role in the process. A common question that surfaces is whether it’s better to file for divorce in December or wait until January – after all, there’s a whole calendar year of difference.  The date on the calendar may not have as much of an impact in California as you’d expect, though. The state’s mandatory divorce waiting period could throw things off, especially if you’re expecting tax benefits. Let’s explore California’s wait ..read more

In today’s digital age, social media has become an integral part of our lives. We use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok to share our thoughts, experiences, and moments with friends and followers.  While social media can be a great way to connect with others, it can also have unintended consequences, especially when it comes to legal matters like divorce proceedings. Let’s explore how social media can affect divorce proceedings, when it may have a smaller impact due to California’s no-fault divorce laws, and provide tips on how to protect yourself during this challeng ..read more

As parents increasingly put their children first in divorce, a number of new child custody arrangements have arisen. One interesting possibility is “nesting,” in which the children stay put while parents trade off living with them.  However, nesting is a complex and often emotionally difficult option for parents. Let’s explore how it works and how to determine if it may suit your family’s needs.  What Is “Nesting” in Child Custody? Nesting, in the context of child custody, is an arrangement where divorced or separated parents take turns living in the family home with their children w ..read more

Same-sex marriage has become commonplace, but it is important to remember how short its history really is. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that same-sex marriage should be recognized nationally in the case Obergefell v. Hodges just eight years ago, and the Respect for Marriage Act (RFMA) only repealed the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) in 2022. Even in progressive California, same-sex marriage has only been legal since 2013.  If that seems like a short timeline, it’s no wonder that same-sex divorce is still relatively uncharted territory. While there is no legal difference between heterosexu ..read more

It’s hard to escape the message that the holiday season is about family and togetherness. While that’s a noble sentiment, it can be painful to hear if you’re preparing for a divorce this winter. The constant focus on family relationships can make a holiday divorce more stressful, especially if you have kids.  However, you are strong enough to weather this storm. With the right approach and preparation, you can keep your divorce on track and find new ways to make the holidays satisfying. Keep reading to learn our five biggest tips for anyone getting ready to end their divorce this winter ..read more