Whether your case is simple and amicable or complex and contested, The Law Collaborative is here to help. We understand that a divorce is one of the most painful and traumatic life experiences that most people will ever face. The decisions you make during this process will have a long-term effect on both you and your family. It is imperative that you choose a skilled divorce lawyer to advocate for your rights. If your situation is urgent, or you would like to schedule a confidential consultation today, call us at (818) 348-6700 or fill out a Case Evaluation Form.
We handle all divorce related issues, including:
Divorce Mediation
Spousal Support (formerly known as Alimony)
Child Custody
Post-divorce Support & Custody Modifications
Second Opinion on an Existing Divorce or Family Law Case
The Law Collaborative boasts an accomplished team of attorneys, divorce coaches, and financial planners who will help you create a plan for your family’s future and assist you through the legal process. We will design a unique strategy for your individual case depending on your personal needs and goals. We place a strong emphasis on the resolution of issues outside of court, but when necessary, we provide superior representation in court.
Most people don’t realize that going to court doesn’t get you a fair deal. California is a no fault state, which means that even if you think your spouse is entirely at fault for the divorce, the judge won’t care. “No fault” means no one is at fault, no matter the circumstances. What you get in court is distributive bargaining: The judge is going to look at what you have and split it how they see fit. Do you really want a stranger to decide your future? Probably not.
Our skilled family law attorneys understand that divorce is really about starting over. More and more people are turning towards less expensive, more effective out-of-court divorce solutions to keep their private lives out of the public record and decisions about their future in their own hands. Our staff is committed to helping you save time, money, and heartache. There are many divorce options to choose from in California, but here are the top Seven Options for Divorce.
Our office provides a large list of unbundled legal services that include everything from paralegal services and second opinions to the newest cost-effective divorce alternatives. Not only do we help clients achieve the results to which they are entitled, but we support their mental health and wellbeing throughout the process. We create an environment of respect and diplomacy as we help clients to be their healthiest selves, enable smoother transitions, and preserve positive memories of the marriage, while ensuring a less traumatic experience for the children.
Contested Divorce
In the event that your case cannot be resolved through some form of negotiated settlement, The Law Collaborative’s experienced litigation team is prepared to fight for you even through the most complex and contentious family law matters. If you are in need of a strong hand to walk you through the process of a contested divorce or other family law matter, our attorneys have unmatched courtroom experience in Los Angeles. We will provide expert guidance and careful attention to detail. Our family law lawyers utilize advanced analytical skills, a vast knowledge of the law, and creative problem-solving techniques to ensure that your family, your assets, and your interests are protected.
Division of Assets & Debts
Once you have begun the legal process of dissolving your marriage, you need to figure out what there is to divide. California is a community property state, which means that anything accumulated during the marriage, whether income, debt, a house, or a kitchen appliance, is presumed to belong to both parties. Yet there are some things that may not be considered community property, such as gifts or an inheritance. “During marriage” is that period between the wedding date and Date of Separation. These are complex issues governed by statute and ever-changing case law. They require thorough analysis by an experienced family law attorney.
During your divorce, one of the most important processes you will go through is the discovery process – the formal process by which the parties disclose their assets so that a court or the parties can decide how the community property will be divided. In most cases discovery will lead to the division of the family residence, bank accounts, credit card debt, vehicles, and loans. In more complex cases, retirement accounts, investment accounts, royalties, patents, or private businesses may be divided by complex formulas involving the date of acquisition and whether or not the asset was enhanced by the community in some way. For example, a business started prior to marriage but which grew during the marriage, or a house purchased with an inheritance but with payments made by community income.
Oftentimes, couples disagree on the value of an asset, whether it was acquired before or during the marriage, or they might fail to take into consideration important tax implications. All too often divorcing couples make deals without considering future financial consequences. At The Law Collaborative we help ensure that nothing is overlooked. We have substantial experience handling intricate property divisions. We understand the importance of addressing immediate financial concerns as well as long-range financial planning. When appropriate, we utilize financial experts such as Certified Divorce Financial Analysts and/or Forensic Accountants to provide detailed and accurate valuations, recommendations on the allocation of financial resources, preparation of budgets and money management, and to provide important tax advice. We are committed to designing winning strategies that will protect your and your family’s interests and allow you the fresh start you deserve.
To speak to an experienced family law attorney about divorce and/or the division of your marital assets and debts, email us at [email protected], call us today at (818) 348-6700, or fill out a case evaluation form.