Divorce and Family Law Blog

March 6, 2025 / Divorce

Common Law Marriage and Uncommon Divorces

Common law marriage is a marriage that does not involve a formal solemnization or a valid marriage license. Solemnization is the requirement for a marriage ceremony before a person who is authorized to marry people. State laws differ in the requirements for common-law marriage. Generally, a couple must live together for a certain period, share […]

March 5, 2025 / Child Support

Is It Illegal to Not Pay Child Support in CA?

Regardless of whether the parents are in a relationship, they have a legal responsibility to provide for their children. When a court issues a child support order, the order is legally binding. Failing to comply with a child support order could result in numerous penalties, including criminal contempt of court. Contact a Los Angeles child […]

March 4, 2025 / Child Support

How to Calculate Child Support in California 2025

California Senate Bill 343 was signed into law on September 22, 2023. The law goes into effect on September 1, 2025. The new law significantly changes how child support is calculated in California. It also changes other aspects of child support. In this blog, our divorce lawyers in Los Angeles explain how to calculate child […]

March 2, 2025 / Divorce

How Property Division Works During a Divorce

When a couple divorces, they must divide the marital property and debts. Property division in California is based on community property laws. Even though spouses own an equal interest in marital property, it can be challenging to divide everything you own equally. In some situations, dividing an asset equally may not be possible. Therefore, issues […]

February 28, 2025 / Divorce

Divorce Checklist: 5 Ways to Prepare for Divorce

Preparing for a divorce can be a complex and emotionally taxing process. A skilled divorce attorney can alleviate much of the stress of divorce, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your life. This detailed checklist can help streamline the many steps involved in filing for divorce and managing the subsequent changes in your […]

February 19, 2025 / Divorce

What Is an Uncontested Divorce?

Divorce can be stressful, but it doesn’t always have to be complicated. In some cases, couples can end their marriage quickly and easily without going to court. This is called an uncontested divorce. If both spouses agree on everything—like dividing property, child custody, and support—then the process is much smoother and more affordable. If you’re […]

February 18, 2025 / Marriage

What Is a Proxy Marriage?

A proxy marriage is a unique type of marriage where one or both parties are absent during the ceremony, and a designated person, known as a proxy, stands in on their behalf. While proxy marriages are not typically legal in California, there is an exception for members of the Armed Forces who are stationed overseas […]

February 5, 2025 / Community Property

Community Property & Separate Property

Property division is an issue that must be addressed during a divorce action. State law governs property division in divorces. Therefore, the laws vary by state. Most states are equitable distribution states. However, nine states operate under the rules of community property. If you’re facing a divorce, consulting with a divorce attorney can be essential […]

January 30, 2025 / Family Law

What Does “In Good Faith” Mean?

The phrase “in good faith” often comes up in legal discussions, especially in family law. Simply put, acting in good faith means being honest, fair, and sincere in your actions. It means avoiding malice, deception, or harmful intent. In family law, good faith plays a key role in resolving issues like property division, child custody, […]

January 20, 2025 / Family Law

How to Talk to Kids About Wildfires in Los Angeles

The wildfires tearing through Southern California, particularly in Los Angeles, are leaving families grappling with loss and fear. Thousands face the emotional toll of destruction, evacuation, and an uncertain future. While the crisis is challenging for adults, it can be tough for children to understand and cope with the chaos around them. If your family […]