Divorce Lawyers in Tustin, CA

Divorce and marital separation place second and third on the Holmes-Rahe Life Stress Inventory, which means the only thing more stressful than these two life events is the death of a spouse. Having expert guidance during these processes is a must to ensure your interests are protected. Wail Sarieh at Sarieh Law Offices is a Certified Family Law Specialist with extensive experience handling complicated divorce matters in Tustin and Orange County. Call our office to schedule a free case evaluation with our family law specialist.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Divorce Process in Tustin, CA

Understanding the process of divorce can help you feel prepared for each step, but having an attorney is highly recommended due to the complexity of the requirements. Before filing, you must meet the residency requirements in California. You or your spouse must have lived in the state for at least six months prior to filing, and one or both of you must have lived in Orange County for at least three months. Sarieh Family Law can help you navigate the Tustin divorce process with caring expertise. Often, obtaining a divorce will involve the following steps:

Initiate the Divorce

One spouse files the Petition and Summons to get the process started and inform the other spouse. Some cases require the court to make immediate decisions about aspects like child custody or alimony. If so, additional forms may need to be filed to request a temporary order.

The spouse filing for divorce will need to pay the filing fee. In Orange County, the fee is currently $435, but it may be waived based on income and financial status.

Serve the Papers

Divorce papers must be served on the non-filing spouse, meaning a designated person must hand the papers to them. This process is completed by a server. In Orange County, this may be a professional process server or someone you know. If the spouse served does not respond within 30 days, the filing spouse can request a default decision.

Make Financial Disclosures

California requires both spouses to share financial documents, including income, spending, and financial assets. This information is used to divide property and debts and determine support obligations. Both parties must confirm to the court that this step has been completed.

Mediate or Litigate

Spouses who can amicably discuss agreeable terms may benefit from mediation, allowing them to control the outcome rather than having a judge decide. Couples unable to reach an agreement may need court intervention.

Finalize the Divorce

The finalization process depends on how the divorce progressed. For example, default judgments and mediated agreements follow different steps. Consult your Orange County divorce attorney for guidance. Note that California has a six-month waiting period before a divorce can be finalized.

Why Hiring a Lawyer Can Be Crucial for Your Divorce

Depending on the complexity of your divorce, the process may take years and involve multiple steps. A lawyer can represent you during mediation, draft agreements, and ensure your rights are protected. In more complex divorces, additional steps like subpoenaing records or consulting expert witnesses may be required.

• Subpoenaing financial records
• Completing discovery, such as depositions
• Consulting expert witnesses
• Negotiating with the other spouse’s lawyer
• Drafting a Qualified Domestic Relations Order

Contact Us for Professional Guidance on Divorce in Orange County

If you are considering filing for divorce in Tustin or the surrounding areas, contact Sarieh Law Offices. We offer free case evaluations to help you understand your options. Schedule your consultation today.