Being served divorce papers can be a traumatic experience, especially when you didn’t see it coming. If you are served papers, read them because all legal papers contain a deadline and need immediate action. If you decide to procrastinate or ignore the situation, you are asking for trouble. Failing to act or do as directed,… Continue reading →
Posts Tagged ‘alimony’
Spousal support & Divorce
Protect yourself from possible financial disaster! Spousal support is normally awarded so the recipient spouse can have some degree of financial independence. He or she can continue with the lifestyle they have been used to while the marriage was intact. Depending on the circumstances, spousal support can be awarded for a limited time or indefinitely…. Continue reading →
What is spousal support?
Not all divorces require one spouse to pay spousal support to the other. If there is a significant income disparity between the couple and they have been married for a long time, the chances of one paying the other spousal support are great. The family court judge retains jurisdiction over the spousal support issue. If… Continue reading →
Dividing retirement accounts
California, being a community property state, calls for pension plans, 401k plans, IRAs, and other types of retirement accounts to be divided equally. Next to the family home, retirement plans are one of the biggest assets of the marriage. Retirement accounts are divided in one of two ways: 1. Qualified Domestic Relations Order 2. Divorce… Continue reading →
Can I collect alimony?
Alimony or spousal support is designed to provide the lower-income spouse with money for living expenses. This is in addition to any child support that is awarded. The judge looks into several factors when considering alimony. Examples include the spouse’s ability to work, age, health, length of the marriage and if he or she was… Continue reading →
Divorce mediation
Going through a divorce can be a devastating experience and an emotional rollercoaster. Because disputes between the couple can turn bitter and ugly, the practice of mediation can be of great help. With the help of an experienced Orange County Divorce attorney, couples can discuss their thoughts regarding division of assets and custody. In order… Continue reading →
Responding to a divorce petition
Have you been served with a divorce petition? If you have, you have 30 days to answer or file a response. If you don’t respond, you may forfeit your rights to contest certain issues, such as child custody or property division. When you respond, you are acknowledging receipt and able to respond to any allegations… Continue reading →
Enforcing the terms of your divorce
The conclusion of a divorce does not always mean the end of the legal process. A divorce can be a long, difficult process. When you receive your final divorce agreement, you will have specific orders that you are required to follow. These orders are regarding child custody and support, visitation, property distribution, spousal support, etc…. Continue reading →
Messy prenuptial agreement cancels wedding
Did you hear about the couple who pulled the plug on their wedding two hours before it was set to begin? It seems an investment banker was set to marry a hotel heiress when their lawyers made a mess of everything. Apparently the 33-year old and 28-year old couple reached an agreement but a day… Continue reading →
What is a marital separation agreement?
A marital separation agreement is a written contract that divides marital property, details your rights during this time, and details issues such as spousal support and custody. It may be drawn up before or after you file for divorce. If you decide to initiate divorce proceedings, the agreement can be attached to the divorce papers… Continue reading →