Divorce

Get information about California divorce, including the legal process, property division, child custody, support, and other important family law issues.

  • Divorce
    Divorce By: Wail Sarieh Last Updated: September 9th, 2026
    What Is Parallel Parenting?

    Many families going through high-conflict separation or a breakup find it difficult to work together. Parallel parenting is when each parent takes care of the children separately, with little to no interaction with the other parent. This helps minimize arguments and reduces stress for everyone, especially the kids. The approach stands apart from traditional co-parenting, as parents do not need to coordinate or communicate on daily matters. Parallel parenting helps children maintain relationships with both parents after a separation, even when direct communication is not possible. Those seeking guidance with…

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  • Divorce
    Divorce By: Wail Sarieh Last Updated: September 9th, 2026
    Understanding California’s 5-Year Rule in Divorce Law

    Understanding California’s 5-year rule is essential for anyone considering ending their marriage in the state. The “5-year rule” in California divorce law refers to special provisions and streamlined procedures available to couples whose marriage has lasted less than five years. Specifically, the 5-Year Rule in California refers to summary dissolution, which is a simplified process for ending a marriage without a formal court hearing. California is a no-fault divorce state, which means couples can divorce without needing to prove wrongdoing. This can significantly impact requirements for community property division, spousal…

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  • Divorce
    Divorce By: Wail Sarieh Last Updated: March 20th, 2025
    California’s 10-Year Rule in Divorce Cases

    California’s 10-Year Rule in divorce proceedings often comes up when discussing the implications of long-term spousal support. While many people think that marriages lasting ten years automatically lead to indefinite support, this is not strictly true. The key aspect is that after ten years, the court retains jurisdiction indefinitely, allowing modifications based on future circumstances. This feature of family law ensures that decisions regarding alimony remain adaptable to changes in each individual's situation. In the context of divorce, understanding the implications of marriage duration on legal outcomes is crucial. The…

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  • Divorce
    Divorce By: Wail Sarieh Last Updated: September 11th, 2026
    How to Tell If Your Marriage Is Over? Early Signs of Divorce

    Recognizing the early signs of divorce can be challenging for many reasons, one of which is the reluctance to acknowledge that the relationship has devolved. Being able to identify issues and warning signs in the early stages can help you make informed decisions before conditions change for the worse. From subtle shifts in communication to unresolved conflicts, there are often ways to identify when something isn’t working in a marriage. Professional Advice from Our Orange County Divorce Attorneys If you suspect that a divorce or separation is on the horizon…

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  • Divorce
    Divorce By: Wail Sarieh Last Updated: March 10th, 2025
    Is California a Community Property State?

    Dividing assets and property is a significant part of most California divorces, and state law takes a unique approach to the distribution of marital property. California is a community property state, which means that property acquired during the marriage is likely to be considered the property of both spouses equally. There are exceptions, of course, but knowing how to navigate property distribution in a California divorce is crucial to the outcome of your case. Sarieh Family Law can help you identify what property qualifies as community property, determine how the…

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  • Divorce
    Divorce By: Wail Sarieh Last Updated: February 26th, 2025
    What Happens If Your Spouse Refuses Divorce Papers?

    Dealing with a spouse who refuses to engage in the divorce process can be frustrating and challenging. If your spouse won't sign the divorce papers, you can still proceed by seeking a court intervention to request a default judgment. This option is typically available when your spouse doesn't respond within a legally defined timeframe, allowing the divorce to move forward despite their lack of cooperation. Such measures ensure that one party's unwillingness does not stall or hinder the legal process. When filing for divorce, serving the divorce papers is a…

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  • Divorce
    Divorce By: Wail Sarieh Last Updated: February 26th, 2025
    Can You Divorce Without Splitting Assets in California?

    Divorcing in California often raises questions about how assets will be handled, especially due to the state's community property laws. In California, it's possible to divorce without splitting assets, depending on specific circumstances such as prenuptial agreements or mutual agreements between the parties. These options allow couples to decide on asset division terms that might suit both parties, bypassing the standard 50/50 split usually imposed by the state's laws. Various approaches can help manage asset division during a divorce. Legal options like mediation and summary dissolution offer paths to resolve…

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  • Divorce
    Divorce By: Wail Sarieh Last Updated: February 5th, 2025
    Understanding Police Divorce Rates: Factors and Implications

    Divorce rates among police officers have been a topic of debate and interest due to the unique pressures of the occupation. Officers often face irregular hours and high-stress environments, influencing their home life. Research suggests that the divorce rate for police officers is notably higher than that of the general public, driven in part by the demands of shift work and emotional strain. These marital challenges aren't just anecdotal; they reflect a broader issue impacting law enforcement families. Factors such as unpredictable schedules and critical job responsibilities can strain relationships,…

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  • Divorce
    Divorce By: Wail Sarieh Last Updated: November 12th, 2024
    Breach of Divorce Settlement Agreement

    Your spouse may have breached your California divorce settlement agreement if they failed to comply with the terms in the agreement or in the final divorce decree if you are already divorced. A breach can involve various aspects of the agreement, such as not adhering to spousal support, child custody, asset division, or various other terms outlined in your document. If you are unsure whether or not your spouse has violated the agreement, contact Wail Sarieh at Sarieh Family Law. Wail is a certified family law specialist, offering unrivaled expertise…

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  • Divorce
    Divorce By: Wail Sarieh Last Updated: November 2nd, 2024
    How Adultery Affects Divorce Proceedings

    Adultery can significantly alter the course of divorce proceedings, impacting everything from alimony to the division of assets. In states where adultery is taken into account, it can sometimes lead to a larger alimony payment from the cheating spouse. It is crucial for those involved in such cases to understand the nuances of family law related to divorce. The effect of infidelity on divorce often varies by jurisdiction. Some courts may view marital misconduct as a factor when considering the distribution of assets. Others may disregard it unless financial misconduct…

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