Is My Ex Entitled to My 401K Plan in a California Divorce?
One of the most valuable assets possessed by spouses is their retirement savings. While 401K plans are treated much the same as other marital assets in a California divorce, there are factors to take into account when dividing these assets accurately. The following provides some general considerations and rules applicable to California property division, including 401K plans and pensions. For case-specific information, seek the advice of an experienced Los Angeles…
Read MoreWhat is a Divorce Decree?
A divorce decree is a legal document that finalizes the divorce process. Also known as a judgment, a divorce decree lays out any judicial orders specific to the final agreement between spouses or the court’s final rulings. A divorce decree is the written declaration of the court’s ruling ending the marriage. No divorce is final until a divorce decree is signed by the parties, the judge, and sealed by the…
Read MoreHow Much Does a Divorce Cost in California?
A divorce in California can cost as little as the $435 filing fee or hundreds of thousands of dollars. However, the average cost of a California divorce is around $17,500. This is slightly higher than the national average of about $15,000. The cost of a divorce in California depends on a number of factors, including: If the divorce is contested Whether there are minor children of the marriage If the…
Read MoreHow Long Does It Take to Get a Divorce in California?
There is no fast answer to how long a divorce will take in California. The most straightforward answer is it depends. No two California divorces are the same, even those divorces that are agreed upon. Divorces vary in complexity. Divorces with complicated issues like significant assets and children are typically disputed between the spouses. This slows divorce proceedings considerably. There is one rule that applies to all California divorces that…
Read MoreCalifornia Divorce Waiting Period
Every California divorce and dissolution of a domestic partnership is unique and follows its own timeline. However, California divorce law has a mandatory waiting period of six months for a divorce or dissolution of a domestic partnership that pertains to all divorcing couples in the state. California is strict regarding its six-month waiting period and allows no exceptions or methods to quicken a dissolution of marriage or domestic partnership. However,…
Read MoreGetting a Kick Out Order During a California Divorce
Domestic violence is a very real issue for many Californians. Domestic violence can often lead to separation, divorce, and the dissolution of a marriage. If you have been the victim of domestic violence, or fear that your spouse may become violent during a divorce, you may be able to seek protection from the state. California allows spouses to petition a court for protective orders during divorce proceedings. These orders can…
Read MoreUnderstanding How Social Media Can Affect Your Divorce
Social media has become an integral part of our everyday lives. If you survey your friends and family, chances are you’ll have a harder time identifying someone who does not use social media than identifying those who do. According to Pew, nearly 7 in 10 Americans use at least one social media platform. Many of us use social media to share our thoughts, feelings, interests, and activities. This can be…
Read MoreDividing Employee Benefits in Divorce
Most employers offer options for employees to participate in employee benefit programs as a way to reduce the amount(s) they pay in salaries each year. Many employee benefit plans offer great tax advantages for both employers and employees, so they tend to be incredibly popular. If you are considering a divorce in California you should understand how your employee benefit and retirement plans will be affected. Retirement Benefits Considered Community…
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