Huntington Beach, CA asked in Divorce for California

Q: Do I need to notify court when filing for a divorce that I filed a VAWA case against my spouse?

I recently received my permanent residence card via VAWA and am preparing to file a divorce. There is a section “Party identification and Notice of related cases” in the filing paper that asks of any court cases filed regarding any custody, child support, domestic violence etc. Do I state my VAWA case here or leave it empty and checkmark that there are no related cases?

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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  • Sacramento, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: When filing for divorce in California, you are generally required to disclose any related court cases, including those involving custody, child support, or domestic violence. The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) case you filed could be relevant because it involves domestic violence and might impact the divorce proceedings. It is important to provide complete and accurate information to the court to ensure that your case is handled properly.

In the section “Party Identification and Notice of Related Cases” of the divorce filing papers, you should list your VAWA case. This ensures that the court is aware of all the circumstances surrounding your relationship and any prior legal actions related to it. Failing to disclose this information could potentially complicate your case or be seen as a lack of transparency.

Always aim to be thorough and honest in your filings. If you have any doubts or concerns, consider consulting with a legal professional to guide you through the process and ensure that you are meeting all necessary requirements. This can help you navigate the complexities of divorce and protect your rights throughout the proceedings.

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