Laguna Beach Contested and Uncontested Divorce Lawyer

Laguna Beach Contested and Uncontested Divorce Attorney

Many couples struggle to come to agreements on various issues, and this difficulty tends to follow them into their divorce proceedings, as well. Other couples may find that the decision to divorce is one they can more easily agree on. If you are facing a divorce, whether you and your spouse feel able to come to a mutual resolution or not, it is important to speak with a qualified and experienced Laguna Beach contested and uncontested divorce lawyer.

Contested and Uncontested Divorce Representation in Laguna Beach, CA

Divorce cases require sensitive representation and compassionate care that is combined with strong advocacy and effective mediation and litigation. Our team at Quinn & Dworakowski, LLP, has been helping couples throughout Orange County reach amicable and favorable resolutions in their divorce cases for years. We can help guide couples and individuals through the legal process and to agreements on property division, spousal support, and child custody and support.

If you are facing a divorce, whether you and your partner have come to any agreements or not, we can help you reach a resolution in your divorce case. Let a qualified member of our team help you through this challenging process.

What Constitutes an Uncontested Divorce?

Uncontested divorces are often seen as the ideal, as they are relatively straightforward and resolved by the most amicable means possible given the circumstances. However, straightforward does not always mean simple. An uncontested divorce is one in which both partners have agreed to resolve all matters in the divorce without dispute. An uncontested divorce can result from a number of different factors, including:

• Mutual agreement. In some cases, couples have already decided on key issues, including property division and spousal support, and do not require further mediation to arrive at a resolution.
• Default divorce. If the spouse receiving the notice of intention to divorce fails to respond, the court may proceed with a default uncontested divorce. While this may result in the same process, because of one spouse’s lack of involvement, it usually does not result in an ideal resolution.
• Simple divorces. Some couples may qualify for a simplified divorce process on account of having little to no shared assets and no children. In these cases, reaching a mutual agreement is more common.

Why Should I Hire a Divorce Attorney for an Uncontested Divorce?

Even in the most amicable of divorces, individuals will want to ensure they are filing their divorce in a legally sound manner and may overlook certain legal obligations without the help of a qualified lawyer. Divorce attorneys do not only provide mediation to those who need help coming to resolutions. In fact, your lawyer can easily guide you through the often-complex legal nuances of California divorce law and ensure you are properly set up for the future.

Additionally, maintaining strong legal support can protect you from pitfalls and mistakes that may otherwise significantly impact your future. For instance, some individuals may be more willing to agree to less-than-ideal conditions out of a desire to get through the divorce quickly to the neglect of their own well-being. Your attorney can help ensure that you receive the benefits to which you are fairly entitled while continuing to provide you peace of mind throughout the legal process.

Lastly, there are certain terms and agreements for which the court must approve whether the couple has reached an agreement or not. Child custody and child support are two legal matters that are not entirely up to the divorcing couple. Since the court will pursue what is in the interest of the child’s well-being, it must approve a settlement that it believes meets this criteria. Your lawyer can help ensure that all agreed-upon arrangements meet the court’s expectations and are legally sound.

Laguna Beach Contested and Uncontested Divorce FAQs

Q: How Long Does a Contested Divorce Take in Laguna Beach?

A: A contested divorce can take considerably longer to finalize than an uncontested divorce. In California, couples are required to wait six months after filing for a petition to divorce in the state before they can legally finalize it. When a divorce is contested, it can take three to six months additional time in mediation or longer if the case goes to court. It is not uncommon for contested divorces to last a year and a half or more.

Q: What Is the Difference Between Contested and Uncontested Divorce?

A: In California, an uncontested divorce represents a legal separation of spouses that agree on all terms and conditions of the divorce, including the division of property, the spousal-support arrangements, and any child-support arrangements. Conversely, a contested divorce is one in which a mutually beneficial arrangement cannot be agreed to and must be worked out through mediation or trial. Generally, uncontested divorces are resolved quickly and are less expensive.

Q: How Much Does a No-Contest Divorce Cost in California?

A: The cost of hiring a divorce attorney will vary depending on the complexity of your case and the experience of your attorney. Your lawyer will likely charge the same hourly rate whether the divorce is contested or not, though the overall cost will likely be higher due to the additional time and resources it will take to finalize. A no-contest divorce will, therefore, be the least expensive option, saving you on mediation fees and potential court fees.

Q: Do You Need a Lawyer for an Uncontested Divorce in Laguna Beach?

A: Legally, you are not required to obtain a lawyer to file for divorce in California, whether the divorce is uncontested or contested. However, working with a qualified and experienced lawyer is still highly recommended. Several aspects of a divorce are decided during the divorce proceedings that can have a substantial impact on your finances and future, such as property division, spousal support, and child support. It is tempting to accept less-than-ideal conditions, but you should fight for what’s fair.

Contact Your Laguna Beach Divorce Lawyer Today

The team at Quinn & Dworakowski, LLP, can help guide you through the complicated and challenging legal process of divorce while protecting your rights and helping you secure your future. Whether you and your partner have already come to some agreements or expect to struggle to reach any resolutions, we can help. Contact our Orange County office in Laguna Beach today to discuss the details of your divorce and begin working toward a favorable resolution.