Does California Require Separation Before Divorce?
Divorce laws vary from state to state. For that reason, many questions arise when a couple decides that divorce in inevitable in their situation. One common question divorcing couples ask is whether or not California family law requires them to separate before a divorce, and whether or not they need a legal separation. The answer to both of these questions is no. However, like most legal questions, the answer is…
Read MoreDoes Separation Always End in Divorce?
If you are contemplating a legal separation from your spouse, you may be curious about the risks and benefits of living apart. For instance, will legal separation automatically lead to divorce? While everyone’s marriage is unique, studies show that less than 15% of couples reconcile after a separation. Both spouses must work together to mend a marriage. Whereas only one spouse must choose divorce to terminate a legal union. What…
Read MoreA Modern Family Actress Has Separated From Her Husband: What Does This Mean?
Julie Bowen, who is currently best known for her role as Claire Dunphy on the hit sitcom Modern Family, is having some modern family troubles of her own. It was recently reported that Bowen and her husband, who have been married for 13 years have legally separated. Legal separation is generally the first step spouses will take when their marriage begins to fail. It often initiates the divorce process and…
Read MoreCan I get Financial Support in a Domestic Violence Case?
Domestic violence in the home can result in drastic changes to your living arrangements and financial viability. If you are a victim of domestic violence and have to leave the family home to be safe, you might need financial support to allow you to financially support yourself during this time. Or, if your spouse or partner is ordered to leave the family residence, as part of a restraining order, you…
Read MoreThe First Steps in Beginning Your Divorce Proceedings
Once you decide that you and your spouse can no longer make it work, you may be wondering what your first steps are. Your first steps will depend on how you will end your marriage. There are three options for ending a marriage or domestic partnership. You will file for one of these options depending on your case facts and the status of your marriage as it stands. Annulment; Annulments…
Read MoreAnnulments: Eligibility Criteria and Process
There are many different ways to end a marriage. For most people, they will go through the traditional divorce process. Some will qualify to file for a summary dissolution, which is a streamlined version of a divorce for short-term marriages with few assets and no children. Annulments are another option for ending a marriage however very few marriages will qualify to file for one. An annulment is what is considered…
Read MoreRights to Residence: Can I be Kicked Out of My Own House?
When a couple comes to the conclusion that they want a divorce, one spouse will usually move out. If there are children involved, whoever is the primary care taker will generally stay with the children in the family home. For the children’s sake, this is often the best move. Moving out at the point of separation is sometimes what is best for a couple, however it is not a rule…
Read MoreTemporary Support: Who Pays for What During Divorce Proceedings?
Often, when couples decide to divorce or separate, one spouse will move out. They do so for a variety of reasons, but rarely are they financial. When one spouse moves out, another household will have to be maintained, especially if children are involved. While it is not required one spouse move out at the point of separation, when and if they do, the courts have allowed for something called temporary…
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