San Fernando Valley Contested Divorce Lawyer 

Navigating Contested Divorce Challenges in California

When facing a contested divorce's emotionally and legally complex terrain, you need an experienced team. At Joel S. Seidel & Associates, we pride ourselves on being your trusted advocates in the San Fernando Valley for contested divorce cases. We understand that this is a challenging time in your life, and our dedicated legal team is here to provide you with the guidance, support, and expertise you need to navigate the intricate process of a contested divorce. 

Call Joel S. Seidel & Associates today at (818) 435-3773 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our contested divorce attorney in San Fernando Valley!

What is a Contested Divorce?

A contested divorce is a legal proceeding in which the spouses cannot agree on the terms of their divorce. Unlike uncontested divorces, where both parties mutually agree on issues like property division, spousal support, child custody, and child support, contested divorces involve disputes that require resolution through the court system.

Contested divorces can encompass a wide range of issues, including:

• Property Division: Disagreements over how marital assets and debts should be divided can be a significant point of contention.
• Spousal Support: Determining whether one spouse should pay alimony (spousal support) and the amount can often lead to disputes.
• Child Custody: In cases involving children, disputes may arise over custody arrangements, visitation schedules, and parental rights.
• Child Support: Calculating child support payments and ensuring they are fair can be contentious.
• Any Other Legal Disputes: Other issues like restraining orders, accusations of domestic violence, or disputes over the validity of prenuptial agreements may also be part of a contested divorce.

Contested Divorce Requirements in California

Specific legal requirements must be met in California for a contested divorce to proceed. Here's an overview of some of these requirements:

• Residency: One spouse must have been a resident of the state for at least six months and a resident of the county where the divorce is filed for at least three months.
• Grounds for Divorce: Neither spouse must prove that the other is at fault for the marriage's breakdown. Irreconcilable differences are a sufficient reason for a divorce.
• Filing a Petition: The spouse initiating the divorce (the petitioner) must file a divorce petition with the court. The other spouse (the respondent) is served with this petition, at which point the contested divorce process begins.
• Response: The respondent has a certain amount of time to file a response to the divorce petition, either contesting the issues raised or agreeing to the terms.
• Discovery Process: In contested divorces, both parties may go through a discovery process involving gathering and sharing financial and other relevant information.
• Negotiation and Mediation: Before going to trial, the spouses are often encouraged to try to negotiate or mediate their disputes with the help of their attorneys. This can help in settling outside of court.
• Trial: If no agreement can be reached, the case proceeds to a trial where a judge will decide on the contested issues, including property division, spousal support, child custody, and more.

How Long Does a Contested Divorce Take?

The timeline of a contested divorce can vary widely depending on the issues involved, the willingness of the parties to cooperate, and the court's caseload. Typically, contested divorces take longer to resolve compared to uncontested ones.

Key factors that influence the timeline of a contested divorce include:

• Court Scheduling: The availability of court dates and the court's docket can significantly affect how long the divorce process takes.
• Complexity of Issues: The more complex and contested the issues, the longer it may take to resolve.
• Negotiation and Mediation: Attempting to settle disputes through negotiation or mediation can expedite the process if both parties cooperate.
• Trial: If the case goes to trial, it may take several months or more to reach a final judgment, as the court must consider evidence and make decisions.
• Appeals: In some cases, one or both parties may appeal the court's decisions, extending the divorce process.

How We Can Benefit Your Case

Because there is so much on the line here and the terms of your divorce have long-lasting impacts, ensuring you are well-represented is essential.

Reasons To Work With Our San Fernando Valley Divorce Lawyers Include:

• More than 60 years of legal combined experience on your side
• An extensive knowledge of family law and the court systems
• Firm representation that is always looking out for your best interest
• Compassionate legal professionals and a team approach
• We handle all paperwork, deadlines, court dates, and other details
• Reduced stress and relief during this difficult time
• Peace of mind knowing a trusted legal team is representing you
• Personalized attention and honest representation
• A customized legal strategy that fits the specifics of your case
• Certified Specialist in Family Law

Contact Our San Fernando Valley Contested Divorce Attorney Today

Contested divorces are intricate legal processes that require experienced representation to navigate successfully. At Joel S. Seidel & Associates, we have a track record of providing our clients in the San Fernando Valley with dedicated and effective representation in contested divorce cases. Our commitment to protecting your rights and advocating for your best interests sets us apart as your trusted San Fernando Valley contested divorce lawyers.

Contact Joel S. Seidel & Associates today to schedule a meeting with our contested divorce lawyer in San Fernando Valley!