If you are experiencing a divorce, it can be difficult to navigate the complex legal processes while also making it through the disruption to your family and home. Particularly for families with children, divorce can be a challenging and overwhelming prospect. However, by working with a qualified and experienced Orange County divorce lawyer, you can work toward a favorable outcome for you and your family.
The Hatherley Firm focuses exclusively on family law cases, helping individuals through the complexities of divorce proceedings, including spousal support, division of property, child support, child custody and visitation, and even issues of domestic violence.
Every family’s needs and situation are different, so we understand that each case is different as well. That’s why we offer personalized representation that is tailored to each individual client. We can walk with you through each step of the process and help you meet your goals.
The process for filing for divorce is both lengthy and potentially complicated. It is highly recommended that you work with an Orange County divorce attorney as soon as possible once you’ve decided you want to pursue a dissolution of marriage. The following outlines the general steps in the process:
While this outline demonstrates the steps involved in filing for divorce, it is important to understand that Orange County, California has a mandatory waiting period of six months between the time that a petition is filed and when it can be finalized.
While couples may proceed with negotiations, mediation, and other processes, no divorce can be finalized before this waiting period has elapsed. Even couples who agree on all terms and conditions for their settlement agreement must wait for this period to complete.
The actual fee for filing for a divorce in Orange County is about $435. This is a mandatory fee that is paid to the court when you initially file for the divorce. However, the process of completing a divorce may include additional costs, such as fees for serving divorce papers, mediation, attorney fees, and court fees. The cost of hiring a lawyer is often offset, however, by the ways in which an attorney can help save you money.
The cost of hiring a California divorce lawyer can vary significantly based on the complexity of your situation and the experience of your attorney. Many lawyers require a retainer fee to reserve their services and additionally charge by the hour. Contested divorces tend to cost more than uncontested divorces, as they require more time and mediation.
In some cases, the courts in California may order one spouse to cover the attorney fees of the other spouse in divorce proceedings. This can happen when there is a significant income disparity between the spouses or if one spouse is guilty of some type of misconduct. For instance, if there is a history of domestic violence, the abusive spouse may be required to cover the fees. Generally, the court seeks to ensure equitable access to legal counsel.
Legally, you are not required to get a lawyer to file for divorce in California unless your case goes to court. However, navigating the legal system can be quite complex, requiring significant time, energy, and investment.
Additionally, those who choose self-representation are more likely to miss important legal considerations regarding property division, spousal support, child support and child custody, which could have significant financial consequences and impacts on family life as arrangements are determined. Seeking legal counsel is, therefore, highly recommended.
If you are facing a divorce, it is important to work with an Orange County divorce lawyer who can walk you through the process as soon as possible. The Hatherley Firm is dedicated to helping families with the transition as they navigate establishing new arrangements. To discuss the details of your case and determine how an attorney can help you obtain a favorable outcome that matches your needs and goals, contact our Orange County office today.
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