Many people are under the impression that once a marriage reaches the 10-year mark, financial obligations like spousal support automatically become permanent. This is, however, not the case according to California’s 10-year rule. While the length of a marriage can impact how courts handle certain issues, it doesn’t guarantee lifetime support or automatic outcomes. Understanding…
For many people, a business is one of their most valuable assets. In a California divorce, business interests can be subject to division under community property laws. Without the right planning, a portion of your business could be awarded to your spouse or used to offset other assets. Understanding how to protect your business both…
In many California divorces, retirement benefits are among the most valuable assets to divide. For educators, CalSTRS (California State Teachers’ Retirement System) benefits can represent a significant portion of long-term financial saving and security. Having a solid understanding of how these benefits are classified and divided during a divorce is so important to help better…
Divorce is a stressful and emotional time. Oftentimes, people get so wrapped up in those emotions that they fail to also consider the legal and financial aspects surrounding the process as well. Many men find themselves reacting to the divorce after it’s already progressed, as opposed to preparing for it in the beginning, which can…
Receiving divorce papers can feel overwhelming and often very emotional. It’s important to understand that being served with divorce papers doesn’t signify the end of the case. In California, being served just means that your spouse has officially filed a petition with the courts for a dissolution of the marriage and the legal process has…
Marriage usually involves combining things like finances and property. While many couples don’t initially consider legal agreements that control these factors, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements can provide a sense of security and protection in the case of divorce. In California, community property laws usually require an equal division of assets, and these agreements can play…
In California, divorce doesn’t automatically mean that every asset is divided in half. While community property is commonly split evenly, separate property can stay in the possession of an individual as long as the right legal steps are taken to protect it. What Is Separate Property Under California Law? California is a community property state…
When a court issues a custody or visitation order, both parents are legally required to follow it. If your ex denies or refuses to comply with the order, then you do have legal options. First and foremost, it’s important to understand that time orders are legally binding. One parent can’t solely decide to restrict the…
Military divorces are often complex since there are elements that civilians don’t encounter, specifically when it comes to benefits and long-term financial support. The 20/20/20 rule comes up and usually has misunderstandings surrounding it. What is the 20/20/20 Rule? The 20/20/20 rule is listed at the federal level that can be applied through certain military…