Torrance Divorce Attorney
Tailored Legal Solutions For Your Divorce in LA County
At Michael D. Shook, Attorney At Law, we recognize that divorce is a challenging and emotionally charged divorce process. Our family law firm is dedicated to providing expert legal counsel to individuals in Torrance and beyond seeking assistance in resolving their marital matters.
With years of family law experience, our team is committed to guiding you through every step of the divorce process with compassion, proficiency, and a focus on achieving the best possible outcome.
Call Michael D. Shook, Attorney At Law, today at (310) 361-2977 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our divorce attorney in Torrance!
What is Divorce?
Divorce represents the legal termination of a marriage, signifying the conclusion of the marital union between two individuals. This process addresses various aspects of the couple's shared life, including property division, spousal support, child custody, and visitation rights. The complexities of divorce can be overwhelming, necessitating the expertise of a Torrance divorce lawyer to navigate the legal intricacies and safeguard your rights.
Understanding the Different Types of Divorce in California
When it comes to getting a divorce in California, it's essential to understand the different types of divorce available to couples. Whether it's a contested or uncontested divorce a summary dissolution, or a default divorce, each type has its requirements and procedures. Our experienced divorce lawyer in Torrance, California, can provide guidance on which type of divorce is best suited for your situation.
Some of the different types of divorce in California include:
- Contested divorce
- Uncontested divorce
- Summary dissolution
- Default Divorce
By understanding the differences between these types of divorce, you can make informed decisions about the best approach for your specific circumstances. Our team is here to support you through the entire process, ensuring that your rights and best interests are protected every step of the way.
California Divorce Requirements
To initiate the divorce process in California, certain prerequisites must be met. These requirements include:
- Residency: Either party filing for divorce must have been a California resident for at least six months.
- County Residency: The filing party must also be a county resident where the divorce petition is submitted for at least three months.
Understanding and fulfilling these residency requirements is essential. The experienced legal team at Michael D. Shook, Attorney At Law, is ready to assist you in navigating these crucial steps, ensuring that your divorce petition aligns accurately with California law.
Filing the Petition and Summons
To initiate the divorce, one spouse (the petitioner) must fill out and file:
- The Divorce Petition: This document will include information about the marriage. It will also include requests for orders about property division, child custody and support, spousal support, and other divorce terms.
- A Summons: This notifies the other spouse (the respondent) of the divorce and informs them that they have 30 days to respond to the summons.
If a couple has a child, the petitioner must also file a Declaration under the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA), which provides courts with information about a couple’s child/children and whether they are part of other pending court cases.
Requesting Temporary Orders
Sometimes, a petitioner or respondent might need support for themselves or their children during the divorce process. Additionally, couples might want to establish a custody agreement that provides guidelines for who will care for their child during the divorce and when. Temporary orders allow divorcing couples to settle these matters.
Unfortunately, seeking temporary orders and initiating a divorce can be complex. These involve filling out legal documents, engaging with courts, and negotiating with a spouse or attorney. Each presents challenges that can add to the emotional toll of deciding to file for divorce. This is why retaining a trusted divorce lawyer can be invaluable.
How Long Does a California Divorce Take?
The timeframe for concluding a divorce in California is contingent upon various factors, such as the complexity of the issues involved, the level of cooperation between the parties, and the court's caseload. Generally, uncontested divorces tend to resolve more expeditiously compared to contested ones. California has a mandatory waiting period of six months from the time the petition is served before the court can officially finalize the divorce.
What is a Wife Entitled to in a Divorce in California?
A wife in California is entitled to half of the marital assets and up to 40% of her ex-spouse's income for child support, spousal support, and other settlement terms. If you are going through a divorce, it is vital to explore a wife's entitlements and how the final settlements are determined.
It's crucial to emphasize that while expediting the process is desirable, it should not come at the expense of the quality of legal representation. At Michael D. Shook, Attorney At Law, our commitment is to prioritize efficiency without compromising the meticulous attention required to safeguard your rights and interests throughout the divorce proceedings.
Contact Our Divorce Attorney in Torrance Today
Attorney Shook's repertoire matches the wide range of disputes and complications that arise during California divorces. You can turn to him for these matters, from child custody and support to parental rights, paternity, and spousal support. There is a reason thousands of people throughout Los Angeles County have trusted their cases with Attorney Shook. He is a Torrance divorce lawyer who will prioritize the best interests of you and your family.
Contact Michael D. Shook, Attorney At Law, today to schedule a meeting with our divorce lawyer in Torrance!