The concept of a "no-fault" divorce means that married partners can divorce when they have irreconcilable differences that have caused the marriage to break down. No one needs to prove that the other party is at fault or guilty of any misconduct. All that is important is that there is no prospect of reconciliation.

Alimony refers to the financial support paid to a dependent spouse after the divorce has been finalized. It is also called spousal support. Spousal support may also be paid while the case is ongoing. There is no set calculation for what the alimony amount will be. Many factors are taken into consideration by the court in determining alimony. Talk to the family law attorney at the firm if you have questions about what type of alimony you might receive or be required to pay if you should seek a divorce.

While custody is not guaranteed for either parent, there are certain things you can do to help your chances. It is imperative that you spend a lot of time with your child and not move out before the custody battle is over. Equally important is how you treat your child during this time and how involved you are in their activities, appointments, and education. Do not expose them to inappropriate or unhealthy environments. Never talk badly about your spouse in front of the child or to anyone else during the legal process. Always be on time for court dates and anything involving your child to prove that you are reliable. Lastly and most importantly, hire an attorney who can accurately represent you before the judge.

Not only does mediation cost much less than going through a public court system, but it is also completely confidential and intimate. It involves the two parties seeking separation as well as a neutral third-party mediator. Together they work through the various pieces of divorce including custody, property division, and alimony. One of the main benefits is that it allows the couple to ultimately determine how their assets will be divided and who takes responsibility for what. In regular court situations, the judge will decide what happens with the couple's debts, property, and child custody issues. More efficient and often more amicable, mediation is an excellent alternative for a lot of couples seeking separation.

Every case is different but on average there should be a zero to six-month period from the point of filing for divorce to the finalization of the divorce. Within that period, a judge can make a ruling earlier than six months and once it has been made, it is effective at once. Of course, if the couple cannot agree on various issues, it may take longer and in certain cases, it can take years.

No, you don't. However, obtaining a divorce in California can be confusing, especially if there are issues while obtaining child custody, spousal support or child support which need to be resolved. If you and your spouse are divorcing in an amicable fashion and are in agreement about the issues involved, that makes it easier. If there are disagreements and disputes which need to be addressed, you will be better off with professional legal representation to ensure that the divorce is settled in a fair and just manner.