Rancho Santa Margarita Divorce Attorney

Family law issues are difficult and emotionally charged. Divorce is usually followed by matters like child custody, asset division, child support, and alimony. Put together, all these disputes can easily spiral out of control, leading to lengthy and costly court battles. Trying to navigate the legal system on your own can be risky, and may lead to unfavorable outcomes. But you are not alone. The experienced Rancho Santa Margarita divorce attorneys at Jos Family Law are here to help you every step of the way.

At Jos Family Law, our team of attorneys has 55 years of combined experience serving the Orange County community. We understand how difficult divorce can be, so we strive to simplify things as much as possible. In many cases, we're able to resolve issues outside the courtroom. But, if litigation becomes necessary, we are ready to protect your rights tirelessly at court. Contact us for a confidential case consultation to learn how our Rancho Santa Margarita divorce attorneys can help.

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The Divorce Process in California

Divorce can be overwhelming and emotionally taxing. It's essential to take the right steps to ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible. The divorce process in Orange County follows the steps below:

• Eligibility

  To be eligible for divorce, either spouse must be a resident of California for at least six months and the county for at least three months.

• Filing for Divorce

  Either spouse files a Petition for the Dissolution of Marriage in the Superior Court of California in Orange County. The petition outlines the grounds for divorce the desired outcome of child custody, child support, asset division, and alimony. At Jos Family Law, we will ensure all documents are completed and filed on time.

• Serving your Spouse

  Next, the petitioner must file the divorce papers with their spouse. This can be done by a process server, the sheriff, or any other adult involved in the process. Once served, the respondent has 30 days to file a response.

• Response

  The respondent will file their own Response to the petition, either agreeing or disagreeing with the terms of the petition.

• Financial Disclosures

  Both parties must disclose and exchange complete financial information, including income, expenses, assets, and debts. This financial transparency is critical to ensure a fair division of assets and determination of support.

• Negotiation & Settlement

  Many divorces are settled outside the court by a mutual agreement between the parties. Both parties negotiate the terms of divorce to reach an agreement on child custody, support, and asset division. Jos Family Law specializes in helping clients reach a fair settlement via negotiation or mediation, striving to make the process as smooth as possible.

• Hearing

  If an agreement isn't possible, the court will decide on the divorce matters. The judge will listen to both sides and make decisions based on the evidence presented under California law. At Jos Family Law, our Rancho Santa Margarita divorce attorneys will present a compelling case, advocating for your rights and ensuring your side of the story is heard.

• Divorce Decree

  Once the issues are resolved, the judge will issue an order for the Dissolution of Marriage. This legal document finalizes the terms of the divorce agreed upon by the parties or ordered by the court.

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Understanding the Common Types of Divorce

1. Contested Divorce- A contested divorce is when both spouses fail to agree on key issues and leave the matter to the court and the judge's decision.
2. Uncontested Divorce- Both spouses agree on major issues of divorce, entering into an agreement for faster and cheaper resolution.
3. Mediated Divorce - A neutral third-party mediator facilitates communication and helps both parties reach a mutually beneficial agreement.
4. Collaborative Divorce- Both parties and their attorneys negotiate a settlement outside the court.
5. Default Divorce- When one party wilfully refuses to be a part of the divorce proceedings, the case proceeds as a default divorce.
6. Summary Dissolution- Summary dissolution is when both parties meet specific criteria, such as a short marriage without children or significant assets. This process is quicker and simpler than traditional litigated divorce.

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Full-service Divorce & Family Law Attorneys in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

Family law encompasses a variety of legal aspects. Depending on your unique situation, your divorce may include several areas, like child custody & support, asset division, and alimony. At Jos Family Law, our attorneys specialize in each of them. Our Rancho Santa Margarita divorce attorneys specialize across all areas of divorce & family law, including:

• Divorce Mediation
• Child Custody
• Child Support
• Spousal Support
• Asset Division
• Domestic Violence
• Paternity
• Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements
• Modification of Orders
• Parent's Rights
• Move Away Orders
• Attorney's Fee

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Skilled Divorce Attorneys in Rancho Santa Margarita Can Help

Jos Family Law understands the complexities of divorce. We are committed to providing quality and compassionate guidance and robust representation to our clients. Our Rancho Santa Margarita divorce attorneys will help you throughout the process, including:

Paperwork & Filing

Our attorneys will ensure all documents are filed timely and accurately.

Negotiation or Mediation

We will help both parties reach an agreement or negotiate with your spouse for a fair settlement regarding child custody, child support, asset division, & spousal support.

Representation at Court

If your case goes to trial, we will represent your interests and protect your rights in court.

Child Custody & Child Support

If you have children, our attorneys will advocate for your parental rights and your child's best interests.

Spousal Support

We can help you obtain or defend against a spousal support claim.

Asset Division

Our attorneys will ensure a fair division of all assets and debts and protect your separate property.

At Jos Family Law, we make the divorce process as simple and smooth as possible, providing continuous guidance and support to our clients. Our aim is to alleviate stress and ensure you emerge victorious through this challenging time.

Contact our Rancho Santa Margarita divorce attorneys today for a private, no-obligation consultation and let us guide you through your divorce with confidence.

Let us help you Navigate Divorce.

Don't take matters into your own hands. It may result in costly errors that can affect your life for many years. Our Rancho Santa Margarita divorce attorneys have extensive knowledge of California statutes and experience in Orange County courts. We're here for you from the initial consultation to the final verdict.

Divorce can be daunting! Let our attorneys make it simple for you.