Get a Divorce in Pasadena

Over 20 Years of Experience Serving Los Angeles

Going through a divorce is difficult, no matter the circumstances. Even in the case of an uncontested divorce, there are still many sensitive matters to discuss and negotiate. A divorce involving high-net-worth individuals and a large estate can become particularly overwhelming.

At The Law Office of Marilyn M. Smith, we focus on family law because we are passionate about providing our clients with support during a difficult time. With an in-depth knowledge of divorce law in California, each of our attorneys works closely together to ensure that your case is handled comprehensively and effectively. Our firm is here to review your unique situation and help you understand your options so that you can make informed decisions about your divorce.

Helping You Navigate Divorce Proceedings

Ideally, every divorce could be negotiated amicably outside of court. Some couples are able to make important decisions about their divorce during mediation. While our firm is able to represent you in these negotiations, we are also capable of providing aggressive and strategic representation should your divorce go to family court.

Our firm can help with all matters that may come into play during your divorce, including:

• Annulments
• High-asset divorce
• Guardianship
• Child support
• Spousal support
• Child custody
• Legal separation
• Visitation
• Division of property
• Asset valuation

Grounds for Divorce in the State of California

In California, someone who files for divorce is not required to prove that their spouse did anything to cause it. In a "no-fault" divorce, there simply has to be irreconcilable differences to dissolve the marriage. Likewise, California does not require that both spouses agree to end the marriage in order to go through legal proceedings.

If you have recently filed for divorce or your spouse has served you with papers, the time to hire an attorney is now. Our legal team at The Law Office of Marilyn M. Smith can provide you with the help you need to get through this difficult legal process.

High-Profile Divorce

Many couples with particularly large estates find that hiring a Pasadena high-net-worth divorce lawyer is the only way to successfully overcome the challenges of a divorce. The Law Office of Marilyn M. Smith has represented several high-profile individuals in their divorces. We have extensive, specialized experience handling these kinds of cases. Our team understands how to properly address their particularly tense matters, such as property division, asset valuation, and alimony.

Divorce Process in California

The basic steps for the divorce process in California are:

• Filing – The “petitioner” is the spouse that starts the divorce process with the initial petition for divorce. In addition to the petition, the spouse may also file a request for temporary orders regarding matters such as custody, support, etc.
• Service – The “respondent” is the spouse that receives a copy of the divorce papers. The respondent can respond within 30 days to the initial divorce petition and contest the terms of the divorce if needed.
• Negotiation – During this process, the couple will work with their own attorneys and/or a 3^rd party mediator or arbitrator. The goal will be to settle the terms of the divorce without court involvement.
• Litigation – If the couples can’t come to an agreement during the negotiation process, then the divorce will be brought to court where a judge will make the final judgment.

Contact our lawyer today to learn more about the process and your specific situation.

California Divorce FAQs

Is there a residency requirement to file for divorce?
Yes, like most states California has a residency requirement for divorce. One of the spouses must have residency in the state for at least six months before the couple can file for divorce. The spouse must also reside in the county where the divorce is going to be filed for at least three months.

Is there a waiting period?
Yes, a divorce in California will not be final until at least six months after the starting date. Couples can’t divorce in a time period that is faster than six months.

Is legal separation an option?
Yes, legal separation is an option in California. Learn more.

What if my spouse doesn’t want to file for divorce?
Spousal agreement is not necessary for a divorce in California. Only one spouse needs to file for divorce in order to successfully achieve it. If the other spouse does not want to cooperate, then the divorce will still go through via a “default” judgment.