Mission Viejo Family Law Attorney

Mission Viejo Family Law Lawyer

In California, family law is a practice area that relates to all legal matters that may arise between family members or those involved in intimate relationships. Many individuals may operate under the assumption that family law is just another way of saying divorce; however, divorce is only one area of family law. Whether you are seeking a divorce or facing a child custody battle, a Mission Viejo family law attorney can provide you with legal assistance.

Common Areas of Family Law We Handle

Whatever area of family law you are facing, you need to find an attorney who comes with the experience and resources necessary to handle your case. At Quinn & Dworakowski, LLP, we have handled hundreds of family law cases over the years and are ready to put our experience and access to resources to good use to help you with yours. The most common areas of family law cases our team has had experience in handling include the following:

• Divorce. The most common area of family law pertains to divorce or the dissolution of a marriage. For some folks, this process might be extremely complicated, especially if there are areas of their divorce about which the couple cannot reach an agreement. It is vital to seek the assistance of an attorney during a divorce who can help ensure your rights are protected and you have someone who is legally advocating for you.
• Child support. In California, when parents go their separate ways, either in a divorce or legal separation or are simply no longer in a relationship with one another, the lower-earning spouse and/or custodial parent may request that the higher-earning spouse or the non-custodial parent becomes ordered by the courts to pay child support. Child support can help a custodial parent pay for items such as food, clothing, and shelter for the child.
• Child custody. Both married and unmarried parents will need to come to a legal custody and visitation arrangement should they decide to go their separate ways. If the couple cannot reach this agreement on their own, a judge will have to make this determination for them. Often, the judge will make their decision based on what they believe to be in the best interests of the child.
• Property division. In a divorce or legal separation, the couple will need to come to an agreement regarding the division of their shared property. California operates as a community property state, meaning that all property and assets acquired during the marriage will be subject to an equitable split. Property and debts involved in these divisions can include the family home, vehicles, bank accounts, and credit card debt.
• Modifications. Even after a final judgment has been made on issues such as child support or child custody, you have the right to seek a reasonable change to that order should a recent change to your life circumstances warrant such a change. Seeking family law order modifications can be difficult, however, and it is important to do so with the legal guidance and representation of a family law attorney.
• Legal separation. For some couples, seeking a legal separation is more appealing for certain reasons than pursuing an official divorce. However, even in a legal separation, areas of contention can arise, including topics like property division, child support, child custody, and spousal support. If you and your spouse decide to seek a legal separation in California, a family law attorney should be consulted.

What to Expect from Your Mission Viejo Family Law Attorney

At Quinn & Dworakowski, LLP, our team of family law attorneys in Mission Viejo comes with over 100 years of combined experience. We are here to do everything within our power to ensure your case reaches the outcome that you most desire. While we can work to help settle your case as quickly and efficiently as possible, we are not afraid of taking your case to court and representing you and your interests before a family law judge.

Whatever your family law case entails, you can expect our team to treat you as our number one priority. As soon as you walk through our office doors for your initial consultation, we take the time to review your case, come up with a personalized strategy for your case, and help you through every legal aspect. Allow us to come alongside you during this difficult time and offer the legal support and counsel you and your loved ones deserve.

FAQs About Mission Viejo, CA Family Laws

What Is Spousal Support in California?

In a California divorce or legal separation, the lower-earning spouse may be able to request spousal support, or alimony, from the higher-earning spouse. Spousal support is determined based on several factors, including the length of the marriage, the age and health of the spouses, and the employment or educational opportunities available for the lower-earning spouse.

What Happens If a Spouse Hides Assets in a Divorce?

In a divorce, both spouses will need to disclose their financials, including all assets and income. When one of the sources intentionally lies and hides assets, this can cause them to suffer severe penalties. If you believe that your spouse is hiding assets or is lying about the disclosure of their finances, you need to speak with a trusted Mission Viejo attorney.

What Are the Two Forms of Child Custody in California?

There are two main forms of child custody in California. These include physical custody, or the time your child spends at the residence of each parent, and legal custody, or the rights and duties awarded to each parent to make certain decisions regarding their child’s health, education, and overall well-being. Both forms of custody may be awarded jointly to both parents or solely to one parent.

How Long Does a Family Law Case Take?

It can be difficult to offer an exact number as to how long it may take a family law case to process through the necessary legal proceedings. However, there are certain factors that can give you a better idea of what the timeline might look like for your unique family law case. These factors can include the exact nature and complexity of your case and the cooperation of all involved parties.

Speak with a Family Law Professional Today

If you are facing a complicated family law matter, reach out to the attorneys at Quinn & Dworakowski, LLP. Contact our offices today to schedule your initial consultation.