FAQs

Begin by having an initial consultation with your attorney. He/she will quickly determine your options and discuss strategies in order to help you reach your goal. Knowledge of the law and your rights will make a difference in the outcome.

This requires a two-part answer. To be divorced so that your marital status is again single requires a minimum six month waiting period. The period starts on the day a party is served with the divorce papers. If after six months, you do not have a judgment on property, custody, and support issues, one can request a trial to terminate the marital status. The remainder of your case will go forward by either settlement or trial, and may take up to one year or more.

No experienced attorney will have an answer for this question.  You will usually hear “it depends.”  Attorneys are paid by the hour; the more acrimony, the more hours.  Mr. Anderson will discuss costs at your initial consultation and it will depend upon the complexity of your case.  Beware of the attorney who asks for a minimal retainer.  Excellent representation does not come at a bargain price.

The state of California is very clear. It is a community property state. All property acquired during the marriage is considered community property, owned equally by both parties. However, there are exceptions to the rule, such as gifts and inheritance. The property you owned prior to marriage and obtained after separation will be considered your property.