Calabasas Divorce Lawyer

Calabasas is one of the most affluent communities in the San Fernando Valley, so when a couple in the area decides to divorce, the case is likely to involve numerous complex financial issues. If you are preparing to end your marriage, a Calabasas divorce lawyer will be an invaluable asset throughout all stages of your case. The team at Hoffer Family Law Firm is ready to provide compassionate support in this difficult situation.

Experienced Divorce Counsel in Calabasas, CA

The right attorney can have a tremendous positive impact on the outcome of your divorce case in Calabasas. Jeffrey Hoffer wrote Ending Your Marriage in California: A Guide for Divorcing Wisely to provide a comprehensive primer for those facing this difficult situation. While this book can offer valuable tips for starting the process and point out things to keep in mind, you need to hire a divorce lawyer you can trust to guide you through your case.

Our team takes time to learn as much as possible about each client we represent. You can trust us to identify your greatest areas of concern for your divorce case, address the most complex financial details you must consider, and provide ongoing support as the case unfolds. You may have more options than you initially expected, but you need to hire a divorce lawyer with proven experience to reach a positive outcome.

The US Census reports that about 10.5% of women and about 7% of men in California are divorced. While California’s divorce rate is lower than the national average, there are still hundreds of divorce petitions filed in Los Angeles County each year. Whether you expect to face difficult courtroom proceedings at the Stanley Mosk Courthouse in downtown LA or you want to explore alternative dispute resolution, a Calabasas divorce lawyer can help.

Preparing for Divorce in Calabasas

Divorce is more than just ending a marriage contract. It is also a formal process of assigning ownership rights over the couple’s shared property. If they have children, they must also determine custody. Every divorce case is unique, so it’s vital to hire a divorce lawyer who can address your individual concerns for your case.

One of the most important parts of every divorce is financial disclosure. Both divorcing spouses must submit financial disclosure statements that include complete and accurate financial records. These statements are then used to resolve other financial issues like child support and spousal support. Your Calabasas divorce attorney can help you complete your statement, ensuring it is detailed and accurate.

If you are facing a child custody determination, this can easily be the most difficult aspect of your divorce case. The court is required to rule in favor of the child’s best interests, and you will need a skilled attorney’s help to make the strongest possible case for the custody rights you hope to secure. Your custody order will include child support terms that ensure your child receives adequate financial support from each of their parents.

Many disputes could arise during your case, and some divorce cases can take many months to complete. The fastest you can finalize a divorce in California is six months from the date you filed your divorce petition. This mandatory waiting period applies to every divorce filed in the state. Ultimately, having an experienced Calabasas divorce lawyer representing you is one of the most effective ways to ensure a positive outcome.

The team at Hoffer Family Law Firm can provide comprehensive legal support for all aspects of your divorce case in Calabasas. We have an extensive record of successful divorce representation in Calabasas and the surrounding communities of the San Fernando Valley, and we are confident we can help you resolve your divorce efficiently. Reach out to our firm at your earliest convenience to learn more about our legal services.

FAQs

Q: Does it Matter Who Files a Divorce Petition in Calabasas?

A: No, it does not matter who files a divorce petition in Calabasas. All divorces in California are processed on a “no-fault” basis on the grounds of “irreconcilable differences,” meaning the marriage has broken down beyond hope of reconciliation. Being the filing party offers no legal advantage. Some people mistakenly believe that being the one to file means the court will view you as the “victim,” and you will have a more favorable outcome if you file the divorce petition.

Q: What Is the Fastest Way to Divorce in California?

A: The fastest way to divorce in California is through joint summary dissolution. You can qualify for this if you and your spouse have been married less than five years, you do not have children, and you share limited assets. You will need the help of a Calabasas divorce lawyer to gather necessary forms and draft your divorce agreement, and this type of divorce is still subject to California’s mandatory six-month waiting period.

Q: How Is Property Divided in a Calabasas Divorce?

A: In a Calabasas divorce, property is divided under California’s community property law. All property and debts acquired by either spouse during their marriage typically qualify as community property and will be subject to strict 50/50 division in divorce. Each spouse has the right to keep separate property, which may include gifts given to them, property they owned prior to marriage, and inheritances.

Q: Why Should I Hire a Divorce Lawyer in Calabasas?

A: You should hire a divorce lawyer in Calabasas to have a better chance of resolving your divorce efficiently and securing favorable terms. Do not assume that you can resolve your divorce on your own. You could encounter various unexpected challenges, and if your spouse has legal counsel, you will be at a tremendous disadvantage.

The team at Hoffer Family Law Firm can provide compassionate legal counsel for your divorce in Calabasas. We take time to get to know every client so we can develop an individualized legal strategy to help them achieve their goals. If you believe your marriage is ending, it’s important to hire a divorce lawyer at your first opportunity, so contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn how we can help.