Best Los Angeles Divorce Lawyers

We are different from other family law firms.

Our attorneys make sure that they oversee all of the aspects of your case. You won’t have to worry about inexperienced staff members handling your case. We aim to make sure that everyone has the best representation possible.

Los Angeles Divorce Lawyers

The Spodek Law Group is a premier, divorce law firm, with an emphasis on positive outcomes for their clients. Todd Spodek has a reputation for handling tough cases, and getting the best possible outcome. His cases have captured the media spotlight. His experience handling tough and difficult to win cases has distinguished him from his peers all over the country. Our goal as your divorce law firm is to help you get through this difficult time in your life – with as much customer service, honesty, and efficiency as possible. We constantly share our experience and expertise with you – so you can make the best possible decision for your family.

What are grounds for divorce in California?

California has drastically simplified the divorce process by establishing two legal grounds for divorce:

  1. Irreconcilable differences, which have caused a breakdown in the marriage.
  2. Permanent incapacity to make decisions.

Bottom line, these are two general and vague concepts which divorce lawyers in Los Angeles can use as basis for a divorce. This is sometimes called a no-fault divorce. Whether we’re talking about contested, or uncontested divorces, these are grounds which can be used to grant an order of divorce. In some states, adultery and other grounds still exist for divorce. California has decided that its best that the reason for divorce is not in contest — and that the state simply accept that the divorce is happening, and instead the state should focus on more important matters like property, assets, and children. In California/Los Angeles, fault is not considered in property division and alimony. Some states award a greater amount of alimony to a spouse who has been wronged as a result of adultery. As your Los Angeles divorce lawyer will tell you, this approach is not followed in California. The only factors that weigh into alimony and property division are financial issues. Spouses don’t get punished by the court for adultery.

In California, a divorce can be offered for irreconcilable differences. It essentially means, circumstances that a judge determines have ended the marriage. It can be virtually anything from a disagreement that spouses cannot resolve, to adultery, or abuse.

In some instances, California laws will let your Los Angeles divorce lawyer offer a divorce if there’s a permanent legal incapacity to make decisions. It means the doctor has determined that your spouse is incapable of making decisions. This can be the result of illness, psychological disorder, or injury.

Are there rules that my spouse and I must follow during the divorce process?

Even though divorce is common in the USA, the process will vary. Short term marriages without children or property, can result in a less complex and time consuming divorce than marriages which are long term marriage. For example, divorce couples who have child custody, property division, debt, and spousal support, will have a less stressful divorce than couples who agree/refuse to work together on the divorce proceedings.

The first step is filing the divorce petition. Regardless of whether both spouses agree to it or not, one spouse can file a legal petition to ask the court to terminate the marriage. The spouse who files the petition has to include some preliminary information, such as:

  • statement which tells the court that at least one of the spouses meets the state’s residency requirements for divorce
  • legal reason for the divorce
  • any other statutory info that the state requires

Residency requirement vary, depending on where you live. States require that at least one spouse live in the state anywhere from 3 months to 12 months. Divorcing spouses have to meet the state’s residency requirements before the court is allowed to legally accept the divorce case. Bottom line, your divorce attorney can help you.

Grounds for divorce will vary from one state to the next. Many states offer a no-fault divorce.

Can I get a legal separation or an annulment instead of a divorce?

If you’re unhappy about being married, but don’t want to get divorced, whether for legal reasons, or religious reasons, there might be alternative methods. Depending on your situation, an annulment or separation could be better.

Annulment: This is different from a divorce. While both end a marriage, the two do not accomplish the dissolution of the marriage in quite the same way. Divorce legally ends the marriage, but it recognizes the existence of the marriage. An annulment has the effect of erasing the marriage. An annulment can only be granted on legal or religious grounds. Generally, states only grant an annulment in certain situations. One reason, is to prevent couples from going around the divorce laws – because these laws were meant to protect spouses. There are grounds for annulment. In an annulment, there generally has to be someone whose at fault. For example, a reason for annulment can be fraud or misrepresentation. You cannot get one, just because your husband/wife has a drinking problem and goes to the liquor store too often, and needs a hangover cure. In order to get an annulment on this basis, one of the parties has to have lied about something material, such as whether they were married to someone else already. The lie has to be significant. For example, it must be something you should have known about – and if you had known this information, you would not have agreed to marry the spouse.

Another basis for annulment can be concealment. This involves hiding material information, instead of lying about it. Concealment is when someone discloses to fail something about themselves that is major. One example is having a criminal record.

How do I file for divorce?

There are a few ways to handle divorce in Los Angeles. If you’re representing yourself in a divorce, you’ll need to complete standard forms to begin the process. You can find these forms on the California Courts website online. The Courts website provides instructions on every single form. Typically, it’s a good idea to review the free information provided as you work your way through the divorce process in Los Angeles. Each of the courts use the same basic divorce forms, but some people might have to complete other forms depending on where they live. California has a lot of self-help centers throughout the state. If you have questions on which form to use, you can visit one of the self-help centers, or talk with a court clerk. The Los Angeles superior court website is a is a great website where you can find info.

How can I get information from my spouse about our property and finances?

It’s unfortunate, but often spouses attempt to hide assets before, or during, a divorce, in order to avoid splitting them with their spouse. However, spouses in all states have legal tools available, to help them “discover” hidden income and assets. For example, if a Phoenix personal injury lawyer helped your spouse get a personal injury settlement, this could be part of your joint finances. The first step in dividing assets during a divorce is painting a financial picture of all the assets owned by each spouse. You should have an idea of what assets you have, and categorize them as marital assets and separate assets, and tell your divorce attorney about it. Using the “discovery,” legal process, you can discover assets that the other spouse has. If your spouse handled all the bookkeeping of the assets during the marriage, and you played no part in finances, then you are an “out-spouse.” It means you have no access to, or knowledge of, your financial information – but your spouse does. If you’re the “out-spouse,” then your first course of action is to ask your spouse for copies of all the financial records. If your spouse is willing to produce and gather documents, then this process won’t be too painful. This is rarely the case. With online access to everything nowadays, it’s easy to get accounting records. Many spouses refuse to provide info because they’re hiding assets. Finding hidden assets can be challenging. The process of finding assets, when your spouse isn’t voluntarily disclosing them, is known as the discovery process. This provides you with methods to get information.

  • Document Demands: Your attorney can ask your spouse to produce information and documents, like tax returns, financial statements, etc.
  • Interrogatories: Your spouse must answer questions in writing, or admit specific remarks.
  • Inspection demands: You can ask to inspect property.
  • Testimony under oath: You, and your spouse, and lawyers, will appear before a court reporter. Your spouse is sworn, under oath, and must tell the truth, and is asked questions by your attorney.

Bottom line, the discovery process is an invaluable way of getting information from your uncooperative spouse, because the court has the power to compel the spouse. If your spouse fails to produce documents, the judge can order your spouse to do so. If your spouse disobeys this order, then the judge will punish the spouse by imposing a sanction, such as a fine, or judgment.

Breaking Down the Brick Walls: Dividing Property in a Divorce

So you’re getting divorced. There are plenty of hurdles ahead, my friend, not least dividing all your joint stuff. With the Spodek Law Group at your side, you’re in good hands but let’s dive deeper. All your possessions and debt – doesn’t matter who bought that quirky toaster or ran up the credit card bill – have to be split between you two before you can say, “Arrivederci, darling”.

Now, you’ve got two choices to make. Either you hammer out who gets what (including that toaster, sorry folks…) together like mature adults or let the court – aka the impartial aunt in your family spats – do it for ya. And if you hang your hat in a community property state (such as California), the court’s gonna split everything right down the middle. Have something special that’s yours? Then let’s request the court to give it back to you, just like asking for your favorite record back from that ex.

Top 7 Reasons Why You Need a Divorce Attorney

Marriage is heralded as the most sacred institutions since the dawn of time and finding the right partner is a topmost priority for many people. The American Psychology Association surmises that while 90% of people marry by the age of fifty, nearly 50% of those marriages don’t last. With such high divorce rates, it is no wonder that divorce attorneys are highly sought after to sort out asset divisions, child custody, spousal support, and such. Here are top seven reasons for enlisting the services of a divorce attorney.

1. Expert Opinion

More often than not, divorce cases are characterized by turmoil, anger outbursts, revenge, and all manner of ills that separating partners haul at each other. In cases where one partner was the breadwinner, they are likely to wield their power and have things go their away during divorce proceedings. This is where a divorce lawyer comes in. A seasoned lawyer brings a wealth of experience to help you navigate the intricacies of divorce and reach the best possible outcome.

2. Legal Agreements

Going through a divorce is immensely challenging, and emotions tend to run high. You are likely to be so embroiled in anger and frustration that you want it all to go away. Since word-of-mouth decrees are not legally binding and can be overturned when either partner wishes, it is imperative to have everything done by the book. A divorce attorney will draft the necessary legal paperwork and inspect documents presented by the other side to ensure that all is in order.

3. Child Custody

Dissolving a marriage where children are involved raises the stakes even higher. It is possible that either spouse deems themselves a better fit to raise children and therefore wants full custody. Sometimes, divorcing couples use children to hurt the other especially if infidelity was involved. While harboring such feelings is perfectly understandable, your children may end up emotionally scarred. A divorce attorney will protect your parental rights and help you reach a harmonious custody agreement quickly enough. This will save your children from witnessing animosity between their parents, and everyone can start readjusting to the new normal.

4. Retirement Plans

For couples who have been married for quite some time, it is highly likely that your retirement kitty is the most valuable asset you own aside from your home. Therefore, it is fundamental that you speak to a divorce attorney about this to determine what each spouse is entitled to upon divorce. Splitting your pension and 401(k) accounts requires your lawyer to procure a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) from the court.

5. Easier Settling

Most couples that are ironing out divorce proceedings are not exactly cordial with one another, and things tend to get nasty and dragged out for months or even years. You need a sound liaison between you and your estranged spouse to help you streamline things and wrap up the divorce sooner than later. Important to note that divorce is an expensive affair and any time wasted in disagreements translates to cumulative costs. Hire a divorce attorney to mediate and determine what is fair and speed up the process in divorce court.

6. Reduced Stress

Divorce lawyers have seen the worst case scenarios and are therefore not likely to be fazed by whatever spouses unleash. You, on the other hand, are an emotional wreck and this may hamper your decision-making process. Borrowing from a breadth of knowledge, an attorney will present all the possible outcomes and help you decide on the most optimal solution for you and what’s more, help you avoid costly mistakes.

7. Collaborative Divorce

This refers to a divorce where you enlist a slew of professionals to help you navigate the murky waters of divorce and emerge unscathed. Besides hiring an attorney, people hire therapists, divorce couches, and even PR to guide them through the process. Collaborative divorce is recommended in high profile cases that involve public figures or high net-worth individuals where the division of assets and custody are highly contested.

The eagerness to close the chapter of your divorce is understandable, but it can also launch a tirade of mishaps that may have irrevocable consequences. Hire a divorce attorney to guide you through this process and shield you from legal hurdles that accompany divorce proceedings.

Spodek Law Group: Providing Comprehensive Legal Solutions for Divorce Matters

Hear me out, my friend. Navigating your way through a divorce is no stroll in the park – believe me when I say that. Given the emotional turmoil coupled with the stress of legalities, it’s essential to have a skilled and experienced legal powerhouse behind you–Todd Spodek of the Spodek Law Group is exactly that.

Got High Net Worth? We’ve got you covered

Imagine you have a comfortable pile of assets and it’s an all-out brawl to decide who gets what. Well, that’s a common scenario in high net worth divorce cases. Todd and his team are seasoned veterans in handling such complex situations. They can dissect your situation like a skilled surgeon and ensure that your financial interests are protected.

Contested divorce? Don’t sweat it!

Tell me, have you ever hit a wall while dealing with contested divorces? Well, trust me, those can be one messy business – plenty of stress and emotional roller-coasters. Remember, the best antidote to resolve this chaos lies in alternative dispute resolution methods. Todd and his team are adept negotiators and they’ll go to the mat for you.

Lights, Camera, Divorce?

Even for celebrities, divorce is something to keep out of the limelight. Don’t fret! Todd and his team can handle your case with the utmost care and discretion. Think of them as your personal guardian angels who’ll pull all the strings to ensure the details of your divorce remains confidential.

Demystifying LGBT Divorce

In cases of LGBT divorce, you’ll encounter unique legal issues especially when kids are involved. But keep your cool, my friend! The Spodek Law Group, armed with its persistent commitment and progressive attitude, will make sure to fight for your rights and interests.

For heroes in uniform

Military service can put unique spins on divorce proceedings – issues about where to file divorce papers, military benefits distribution etc. But breathe easy! Todd and his team have been dealing with military divorces for more than 50 years. They’re pro’s at finding the best possible resolutions for you.

Uncontested divorce? You might still need a bit of help

Suppose you and your spouse have hammered out the terms of your divorce. That’s an uncontested divorce. A word of advice? You’d still want a seasoned attorney like Todd to review all the paperwork for you. Why, you ask? To make absolutely sure that the agreement is just fair and your rights are safeguarded.

And when it comes to splitting up…

Wouldn’t you want somebody to help you decide which assets you want to keep and which to part with? The Spodek Law Group can guide you through this process by working closely with respected auditors, and financial experts to give a clear-eyed view of your assets.

Alimony Troubles?

As you know, alimony or spousal support after a divorce can be quite a headache. Our mission is simple- to craft an iron-clad argument supporting your stance on spousal support. The team will work around the clock to make sure your financial needs are addressed.

Kids Involved? Fighting for them

When kids are drawn into the whirlpool of divorce, it can become a more intricate ordeal. Remember, their best interests and your rights as parents are non-negotiable. Also, we’ll delve into child custody and thrash out the specifics of visitation rights to make sure that the kids’ needs are met and your custody rights are upheld.

Reach out to Todd Spodek and his dedicated team at Spodek Law Group soon. They make it their mission to ensure the best possible resolution for you and your family.

Going Through a Divorce in California? Consider This

Guess what? The California Family Code § 2300 describes divorce as ‘restoring parties to the state of unmarried persons.’ But here’s the thing – it impacts your rights and duties and can even change your life. Not to mention, it’s often emotionally challenging.

Meeting Crucial Residency Requirements

How about some law 101? To get a divorce in California, a spouse must have been a state resident for six months at least. Plus, they must have resided in the county where the divorce is being filed for about three months. But wait! There are exceptions like nullity proceedings, legal separation, or same-sex marriage!

Waiting it out – the Divorce Period

Wait up here! Did you know a divorce is not finalized in California unless six months have passed since the divorce petition and summons have been served to the non-filing spouse?

No Alibis Required, it’s a No-Fault Divorce

We also call California a ‘no-fault divorce state.’ Simply put, reasons such as infidelity don’t hold water here. Basically, saying ‘irreconcilable differences are causing our breakup’ does the trick. Interesting, right?

Your Divorce, Your Call

During a divorce, you make some serious decisions. Who gets the custody of children, the amount for child support or alimony – all these lie in your hands. And remember, courts can give a judgment regarding property rights and custody too.

Not just the Married- Unmarried Partners, Same-Sex Couples

Did you know? The 2015 US Supreme Court case Obergefell v. Hodges declared it unconstitutional to bar same-sex couples from getting married. And since 2003, California gives couples in registered domestic partnerships the same rights as those married. This includes the right to terminate the partnership.

Rethinking Marriage or Domestic Partnership

To end or alter your rights related to marriage or a domestic partnership, you’ve got three options: annulment, divorce, or legal separation. Although, for certain cases, you can dissolve a marriage through an accelerated, summary procedure.

Rethinking Divorce

Sometimes, divorce might not seem your best option. Then, you can consider annulment or legal separation. While annulment deals with the legality of the marriage, legal separation does not dissolve the marriage completely.

Going through a divorce is never easy, and it’s always a good idea to have a tough legal team on your side. With Attorney Todd Spodek and his team, you’ll definitely be in safe hands. They have the right skills and experience required. So, feel free to contact them and start your journey to a brighter future.

Your journey towards a quicker and more affordable divorce in Los Angeles is indeed achievable with the right strategies and insights. This comprehensive guide not only navigates through the complexities of divorce proceedings but also delves into the nuances of child custody, spousal support, alimony, and the intricacies of high net worth divorce cases, offering practical advice and legal insights to mitigate the financial and emotional toll of divorce.

Child Custody and Cooperation

Focusing on reasonable child custody demands and fostering cooperation with your partner are pivotal steps to avoid exacerbating conflicts and ensuring a smoother divorce process. By prioritizing the well-being of your children and avoiding unnecessary disputes, you can significantly reduce the duration and cost of your divorce proceedings.

Streamlining the Divorce Process

Utilizing mediation and being proactive about gathering necessary documentation can expedite your divorce. Mediation, in particular, can be a cost-effective alternative to court battles, helping both parties reach amicable agreements on contentious issues like property division, child support, and spousal support.

Understanding Spousal Support and Alimony

Clarifying the concepts of spousal support and alimony is crucial. Though they are often used interchangeably, understanding their application and the factors influencing their determination can help manage expectations and financial planning post-divorce.

Navigating High Net Worth Divorce Cases

High net worth divorces bring additional complexities, including asset division and child support considerations. The necessity of detailed financial disclosures and the potential for hidden assets necessitate a meticulous approach and, often, specialized legal support to ensure a fair settlement.

Retirement Plans and Divorce

The division of retirement plans and 401(k)s is a critical aspect that requires careful negotiation and legal guidance. Opting for an equitable distribution or reaching a mutual agreement on the division of these assets can protect your financial future and retirement planning.

Annulment and Parental Rights

Understanding the implications of annulment on parental rights is important for those considering this route. Although annulment can legally nullify a marriage, it does not automatically negate parental responsibilities or rights, and the court’s primary focus will remain on the best interests of the child.

Legal Representation

Seeking professional legal advice from experienced attorneys like Todd Spodek and the Spodek Law Group can provide invaluable support through the divorce process. Whether it’s navigating high net worth divorces, negotiating spousal support, or ensuring fair asset division, professional guidance can make a significant difference in achieving a favorable outcome.

Conclusion

Divorce can be a challenging journey, but with the right approach and support, it’s possible to navigate this transition more smoothly and cost-effectively. Prioritizing cooperation, understanding the legal nuances, and seeking professional legal advice are key strategies to manage the process and mitigate its impact on your life and finances.