On behalf of Mohajer Law Firm, APC posted in family law on Thursday, June 27, 2019.
You may think that you can handle a divorce on your own, especially when you don’t have children or many assets. Still, it is a good idea to work with an attorney so that you have all the information you need on applicable California laws.
Did you know that everything you and your spouse bought during your marriage, under state law, is split equally upon divorce? Since California is a community property state, you need to be prepared to split your assets 50-50 if they’re defined as marital property.
Even if you don’t have many assets, there is a chance that you have debts. Marital debt is also split equally during a divorce under California law. Therefore, it’s wise to determine which of your assets and debts are community property and which are separate property. If it’s agreed that an asset is a separate property, you won’t have to split it with your spouse.
Why work with an attorney during a divorce?
Another good reason to work with an attorney during your divorce is that you have the opportunity to discuss ways to make your divorce move forward smoothly. Your attorney can help you explore options like collaborative divorce if you and your spouse are able to work together. Even if you have a litigated divorce, you can work to minimize how many issues have to be taken to a judge to decide.
Our website has more information on family law and the various elements of divorce in California. If you want to learn more, this is an excellent place to start.