San Bernardino Divorce Attorney

Family Lawyer Serving the San Bernardino, California Area

If you are thinking about a divorce in the San Bernardino area, you may be going through a tough emotional time. All kinds of issues are connected with the prospect of divorce that affect the entire family, most especially children. As a San Bernardino divorce lawyer , I have successfully helped hundreds of couples complete the divorce process. It is important to understand how the process works so that you can make informed decisions relating to your own personal situation.  

The Divorce Process in California

The divorce process begins with the filing of a petition by one of the parties seeking dissolution of marriage. The party who files the petition is called the Petitioner and the other partner is called the Respondent. The petition is then served on the Respondent either by mail or personally. The date of the service on the Respondent begins a 6 month waiting period after which a request can be made to terminate the marriage and have a judgment entered.

Once the Respondent has received the petition, he or she has 30 days to file his or her statement as a response to the facts contained in the petition. Once that occurs, a court hearing is set. If there are disputes over child custody or visitation, mandatory counseling is generally ordered to be completed prior to the court hearing. After the petition has been filed, served on the Respondent, and responded to, the parties may make arrangements between them regarding such issues as division of property and debt, child custody , visitation , child support , and spousal support .

When the parties have come to an agreement on these matters, the agreement is made a part of the Judgment and made into a court order. If the parties cannot come to an agreement, then the divorce will proceed to a trial. This will lengthen the time it takes to complete the divorce as each side must prepare their case. This may involve the exchanging of documents, depositions, property and asset valuation, and other matters. When the divorce trial takes place, each side presents their case and the court makes decisions on the issues involved based on California law and the presentation of the facts.

Consult with a San Bernardino Divorce Attorney

For further information about how the divorce process works and how it may relate to your particular situation, I invite you to call me for a free initial 30 minute consultation. With over 25 years of experience in divorce and family law, I can provide the skilled and knowledgeable assistance you need to complete this transition.

For experienced legal assistance with the divorce process, contact the San Bernardino Divorce Lawyer at the firm to discuss your potential divorce today!