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California Divorce Questions & Answers
1 Answer | Asked in Family Law, Child Support and Divorce for California on
Q: On going 4 year battle with divorce and custody.

My divorce/child custody battle has been ongoing for almost 4 years. My youngest is 10 but always goes where the money is which is his dad. I’m low income and going to school full time. Honestly I’m tired mentally and emotionally, this whole process is draining me and my health just feels like... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Apr 1, 2024

I understand that you are going through a difficult and emotionally draining situation. However, before making any decisions, it is essential to consider the long-term consequences and explore all available options. Here are some points to consider:

1. Consult with your attorney: Discuss...
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1 Answer | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for California on
Q: Is property 50/50 in California? If one is keep living in the house, how he pay to other spouse?

My husband demand to keep the current house value ($1701.400) great neighborhoods and offered me Virginia house ( $835.500) and adding savings to close to

Half value.. but so far he offered I will get $647.000 and he will get $830.000. The monthly loan is $6000.

I will not be able... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Apr 1, 2024

In California, property acquired during the marriage is generally considered community property and is divided equally (50/50) in a divorce. However, there are some exceptions and nuances to this rule.

Regarding your specific situation:

1. If you cannot afford the mortgage on the...
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1 Answer | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for California on
Q: What is the CA divorce guidelines of support? How much percentage of navy pension I can get ?

He offered total $5000, both alimony and child.

16years of marriage. We have 50/50 custody. ( my sons are 14&16) his income $16.458 monthly my income $1200) also he has Navy pension ($5956 monthly) I have a right to receive pension monthly.

He was in service 27years, I was with... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Mar 31, 2024

Under California law, the division of assets and determination of spousal and child support in a divorce case is based on several factors. Here's a general guideline:

1. Spousal Support (Alimony): The court considers factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse's...
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1 Answer | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for California on
Q: can i prepare a letter to my wife that says I'll continue to support her indefinitely (iue share income) after divorce?

we have been amrried 40 years and if we divorce i want he to be assured i won't cut her off financially

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Mar 31, 2024

In California, when considering divorce after a long marriage such as yours, it's commendable that you're thinking about ensuring financial stability for your spouse. You can indeed prepare a letter expressing your intention to support her indefinitely, sharing income post-divorce. This... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law, Divorce, Child Custody and Child Support for California on
Q: Can You File a Sanction Against an Attorney for Misrepresenting Court Orders?

Today, during my scheduled weekend parenting time, my ex failed to bring our child for the exchange, and I waited for over an hour. When I contacted Ex's attorney, provided by a non-profit organization, I was told via email to go home because "The Court already told you that you have the... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Mar 29, 2024

In California, you have the right to seek legal recourse if an attorney has misrepresented court orders, especially in matters as sensitive as parenting time. Filing a Request for Order (RFO) for sanctions against the attorney could be a valid approach if their actions have obstructed justice or... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for California on
Q: What are the typical costs of divorce in Alameda County?

One party already has an attorney yet I prefer mediation.

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Mar 29, 2024

In Alameda County, California, the costs of divorce can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case, whether there are contested issues, and the choice of legal representation or mediation. Filing fees in California are generally consistent across counties, with the initial filing fee for a... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Divorce, Arbitration / Mediation Law and Family Law for California on
Q: In the case of divorce, my partner already has an attorney. Is mediation possible? Cost?
James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Mar 29, 2024

In California, even if your partner already has an attorney, mediation is still an option for you. Mediation can offer a more collaborative environment to resolve disputes and may lead to a more amicable settlement. It's designed to help both parties communicate their needs and reach an... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for California on
Q: Can I file for divorce without my husband? I dont have an address to serve him.Thank you for reply in advance.
James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Mar 27, 2024

In California, it is possible to file for divorce even if you cannot locate your spouse to serve them with the divorce papers. The law requires you to make a diligent effort to find your spouse. This includes looking in phone books, asking relatives and friends, checking with the post office for... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for California on
Q: Can I file for divorce without my husband? I dont have an address to serve him.Thank you for reply in advance.
Robert Kane
Robert Kane
answered on Mar 27, 2024

Yes, you can file for divorce without your husband. You need to be properly prepared to proceed. You will need to prove you did everything you possibly could to find him. If the judge isn't convinced you did enough, you will need to start all over. Please have someone help you, preferably an... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for California on
Q: If filed for divorce, been separated for 8 years and financials will take time, can one party refuse bifurcation?

Separated for 8 years, filed for divorce, financials will take time and petitioner would like bifurcation to move forward with current relationship. Can the respondent refuse or contest bifurcation?

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Mar 27, 2024

In a divorce, bifurcation allows the parties to legally end their marriage while other details, such as financials, are still being worked out. If one party wants to push for bifurcation, usually because they wish to remarry or for other personal reasons, they can file a motion with the court to do... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for California on
Q: If filed for divorce, been separated for 8 years and financials will take time, can one party refuse bifurcation?

Separated for 8 years, filed for divorce, financials will take time and petitioner would like bifurcation to move forward with current relationship. Can the respondent refuse or contest bifurcation?

Tobie B. Waxman
Tobie B. Waxman
answered on Mar 27, 2024

Motions of any kind can be opposed. It's very difficult however, and rare that an opposing party can come up with a valid justification for opposing a motion to bifurcate. CA is a no fault state. If someone wants a divorce they can have one.

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1 Answer | Asked in Child Custody, Family Law and Divorce for California on
Q: Therapy for the kids while dealing with divorce

Father asked if I was okay with the kids getting therapy and I’m all for it since I believe they can benefit from it but I told him that I want the kids to individually have their own therapy without him being present so they feel comfortable expressing themselves. Obviously Father didn’t agree... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Mar 27, 2024

Under California law, both parents generally have the right to be involved in their children’s health care decisions, including therapy, if they share legal custody. However, the court always considers what is in the best interests of the children. If you believe that the father’s presence in... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Divorce, Family Law, Child Custody and Child Support for California on
Q: My Ex filed "RFO Change of Venue" within LA County (Torrance to Van Nuys Court)

I currently reside in Torrance, while my wife lives in North LA. She has filed RFO for a Change of Venue, which seems to be a tactic to delay the court’s decision on custody. I’ve noticed that according to LA Local Rules, a case can be transferred for the convenience of witnesses or to promote... View More

Tobie B. Waxman
Tobie B. Waxman
answered on Mar 26, 2024

She either meets her evidentiary burden in her motion or she does not. If you do not believe the motion has merit or there is a valid evidentiary basis for changing venue, you can say so in your responsive declaration. "Is it common" ?? All cases are different.

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2 Answers | Asked in Divorce, Family Law, Child Custody and Child Support for California on
Q: My Ex filed "RFO Change of Venue" within LA County (Torrance to Van Nuys Court)

I currently reside in Torrance, while my wife lives in North LA. She has filed RFO for a Change of Venue, which seems to be a tactic to delay the court’s decision on custody. I’ve noticed that according to LA Local Rules, a case can be transferred for the convenience of witnesses or to promote... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Mar 25, 2024

Under California law, a Request for Order (RFO) for a change of venue is permissible but not always granted. Courts generally consider such requests if there is a significant reason related to the convenience of parties, witnesses, or the interests of justice. In family law cases, the primary... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for California on
Q: What is the date used to calculate the home equity? Date of separation (September 2021) or at present time.

Since separation, I have diligently continued to pay the mortgage on the property, significantly reducing the balance owed. However, during recent discussions on asset division, I noticed that the house equity was calculated based on the latest balance, which differs by over $80,000 compared to the... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Mar 25, 2024

Under California law, the date used to calculate home equity for the purposes of asset division in a divorce generally is the date of separation. However, if there have been significant changes in the property's value or mortgage balance since that date, this can complicate matters. The courts... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for California on
Q: What is the date used to calculate the home equity? Date of separation (September 2021) or at present time.

Since separation, I have diligently continued to pay the mortgage on the property, significantly reducing the balance owed. However, during recent discussions on asset division, I noticed that the house equity was calculated based on the latest balance, which differs by over $80,000 compared to the... View More

Robert Martin Daniels
Robert Martin Daniels
answered on Mar 25, 2024

Unless the court grants a motion to value the house at a different date, the court will take values and encumbrances as of the date of trial (or as close as possible). However, if you've paid down a community debt using your separate property (typically your paycheck after your separate), then... View More

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1 Answer | Asked in Divorce, Family Law and Personal Injury for California on
Q: Can you sue your wife for injury settlement she got just up and leaves one day knowing she getting millions of dollars
James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Mar 25, 2024

Under California law, the division of assets during a divorce, including injury settlements, depends on whether the assets are considered community property or separate property. Typically, if the injury settlement was received during the marriage, it might be considered community property and thus... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Divorce, Family Law, Child Custody and Child Support for California on
Q: Which form do you need, FL-300(Ex Parte) or FL-307(reschedule)?

our RFOMOD custody hearing is set for July, and I need to advance from July to early April with good reasons.

In that case, as an application, do you need FL-300(ex parte) or FL-307, OR both (300+307)?

David Brooks
David Brooks
answered on Apr 2, 2024

If you are seeking to advance your hearing from July to April, you'll need to file the FL-300, FL-303, and FL-305, in addition to any local forms required. Since you are not seeking to modify ex-parte orders, the FL-307 is not required, you are only seeking orders on an ex-parte basis.

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2 Answers | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for California on
Q: I am a 66 year old man who suffers from Parkinson's my wife file for divorce after 45 years of marriage is a lot more

She waited until I was out of the county when I see the petition I took the next plane back to Los Angeles but she won't let me in she lie to the police about having a restraining order and told them I was not on the lease after paying the rent for 41 years the police didn't ask for proof... View More

Dale S. Gribow
Dale S. Gribow
answered on Mar 23, 2024

This is not a criminal domestic violence matter...it is more a Family Law matter, and I have not handled one in 50 years. Repost on family law, not criminal posts.

Do you have a best friend who can assist you?

I believe she has to serve you with an unlawful detainer.

You can...
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2 Answers | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for California on
Q: I am a 66 year old man who suffers from Parkinson's my wife file for divorce after 45 years of marriage is a lot more

She waited until I was out of the county when I see the petition I took the next plane back to Los Angeles but she won't let me in she lie to the police about having a restraining order and told them I was not on the lease after paying the rent for 41 years the police didn't ask for proof... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Mar 22, 2024

I'm sorry to hear about your difficult situation. In California, if you're dealing with divorce and property issues, it's essential to understand your legal rights, especially regarding property and housing. If you've been paying rent for a significant period, you might have... View More

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