The decision to divorce is rarely an easy one. However, whether you are initiating the dissolution or your spouse is, you need to take steps to protect your interests. One of the best ways to do this is to contact a Northridge family law attorney at Diarian & Bociaga.
Why Choose Us at Diarian & Bociaga?
At Diarian & Bociaga, we offer more than 20 years of combined legal experience to support you through your separation or divorce. Additionally:
- Our boutique-sized firm allows us to pay close attention to every case
- We always strive to resolve your case as quickly as possible
- We provide unbiased legal guidance to help you make decisions to meet your goals
Divorces can be incredibly emotionally intense, and we are here to guide you through it, providing support and protecting your legal rights.
What Should I Consider Before Filing for Divorce in Northridge?
If you are initiating a divorce, you may want to consider some of the following:
- Make sure you meet residency requirements, that one of you has lived in California for at least 6 months, and in Los Angeles County for at least 3 months
- Consider your financial situation, and try to get as much of your documentation in order as possible
- If you have dependent children, consider how you plan to discuss the situation with them and consider what you want the parenting plan to look like
- If you are leaving because of domestic violence or abuse, you should consider a safety plan before you leave
It can be a smart move to consult with a lawyer before taking any steps. Some things, like moving out of the family home, can reflect poorly on you.
What Are Some Examples of Situations Where I Might Need a Divorce Lawyer?
Many lawyers may tell you that you always need a divorce lawyer. While you are almost always best prepared by working with an attorney, some circumstances can present a higher need than others.
If you suspect your spouse is going to contest the divorce, or that you will not be able to agree on matters of the separation, you should speak with an attorney to protect your rights and help you retain what you need to start a new life.
If you are facing problems like domestic violence, you should speak with an attorney who can help you safety plan for when you leave, and take steps to proactively protect your legal interests and physical safety.
Similarly, if you and your spouse have significant debts or assets, a divorce attorney can be integral to getting fair and accurate valuations. These valuations can ensure you recover a fair amount of assets obtained during the marriage
How Long Does a Divorce Take in California?
Married couples in California who are looking to divorce will face a 6-month waiting period. This means that regardless of whether you and your spouse agree to terms quickly, you cannot finalize the divorce until the end of that waiting period. However, if you have a contested divorce, the process can take much longer.
Call Our Northridge Divorce Attorneys Today
If you are considering divorce, you may benefit from speaking with our Northridge Divorce Attorneys to get an understanding of what is required and how you may best prepare. However, we are happy to help you at any stage of your divorce, whether this is before you file or if you realize you need us in the middle of the process. Call us today to schedule your consultation and learn your options.