Divorce Get A State Bar Certified Family Law Specialist On Your Side

San Bernardino Divorce Attorney

Let Our Firm Help You Throughout the Divorce Process

When you are facing the emotional and legal challenges of divorce, it is important to have experienced representation on your side. At Family Law Advocacy Group, our team is dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you navigate the divorce process with compassion and skill. If you are searching for our San Bernardino divorce lawyer, we are here to provide the guidance and advocacy you need during this difficult time.

Call (909) 992-0188 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced San Bernardino divorce lawyer and take the first step toward a new chapter in your life.

What is a Divorce?

A divorce is the legal dissolution of a marriage. Unlike separation, which may only involve spouses living apart, divorce formally ends the marital relationship in the eyes of the law. Once a divorce is finalized, both parties regain their legal status as single individuals and may remarry if they choose.

Divorce often involves more than simply ending the marriage. It can include complex legal issues such as dividing property, determining child custody, awarding child support, and deciding whether spousal support (alimony) is necessary. Because these issues can significantly impact your future, it is crucial to work with an attorney who understands California divorce laws and can help you achieve a fair resolution.

Common Factors in a Divorce

No two divorces are alike, but most involve several key legal and financial considerations. As your San Bernardino divorce lawyer, Family Law Advocacy Group can help you understand and protect your rights in the following areas:

Alimony (Spousal Support)

Spousal support may be awarded when one spouse earns significantly more than the other. The court considers factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s earning ability, and contributions to the household. Alimony can be temporary during the divorce process or long-term depending on the circumstances.

Child Custody

Custody decisions are based on the “best interests of the child.” Courts consider the child’s health, safety, and welfare as well as the ability of each parent to provide stability. Custody may be joint (shared by both parents) or sole (granted to one parent with visitation for the other).

Child Support

Child support is intended to ensure that children receive financial support from both parents, regardless of custody arrangements. California uses a statewide formula to calculate support, taking into account parental incomes, time spent with the child, and other financial obligations.

Property Division

California is a community property state, which means that property acquired during the marriage is generally considered jointly owned and subject to equal division in a divorce. This includes income, real estate, vehicles, retirement accounts, and debts. Separate property, such as assets acquired before marriage or through inheritance, usually remains with the original owner.

California Divorce Laws

Divorce laws vary from state to state, and California has specific rules that govern how cases are handled. Some key points include:

No-Fault Divorce: California is a no-fault divorce state, meaning that you do not have to prove wrongdoing by your spouse. Most divorces are filed on the grounds of “irreconcilable differences.”
Residency Requirements: At least one spouse must have lived in California for six months and in San Bernardino County for at least three months before filing for divorce.
Community Property Rule: Assets and debts acquired during the marriage are divided equally between spouses.
Child’s Best Interests: Custody decisions are always guided by what is best for the child, not necessarily what either parent prefers.
Mandatory Waiting Period: Even if both parties agree on all terms, California requires a minimum six-month waiting period from the time divorce papers are served before the divorce can be finalized.

Understanding these laws is critical to achieving the best possible outcome. Our attorneys will explain how the law applies to your case and develop a strategy tailored to your goals.

The Divorce Process in CA

The divorce process in California involves several steps. While every case is unique, the typical process includes:

Filing the Petition: One spouse (the petitioner) files a divorce petition with the court and serves the other spouse (the respondent).
Response: The respondent has 30 days to file a response.
Temporary Orders: The court may issue temporary orders regarding child custody, support, or use of property while the divorce is pending.
Discovery: Both spouses exchange financial documents and other information to ensure full disclosure of assets and debts.
Negotiation & Settlement: Many divorces are resolved through negotiation, mediation, or collaborative law, avoiding a trial.
Trial (if necessary): If the parties cannot agree on all issues, a judge will make the final decisions.
Final Judgment: Once all issues are resolved and the waiting period has passed, the court issues a final judgment of dissolution of marriage.

Our attorneys work diligently to minimize conflict, protect your rights, and streamline the process whenever possible.

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Your Family. Your Future.

A New Beginning Is Possible

See What sets Family Law Advocacy Group Apart

Recognized for Excellence

Our attorneys have earned respected industry awards and peer recognition for our commitment to delivering exceptional representation to every client we serve.
Putting Your Family First, Always

We take the time to understand your priorities, your concerns, and your long-term goals - so you always feel informed, supported, and empowered throughout the process.
Outstanding Negotiating Skills

Our team combines sharp legal strategy with seasoned negotiation skills. We know when to push, when to protect, and how to position you for the best outcome.
Board-Certified Advocates

Being Board Certified by the California State Bar means meeting the highest standards of experience, education, peer review, and successful case handling.

Divorce FAQs

Do I need a lawyer for my divorce?

While it is possible to represent yourself, divorce involves complex legal and financial issues. Our San Bernardino divorce attorney can help protect your rights and ensure that you receive a fair outcome.

How long does a divorce take in California?

The mandatory waiting period is six months, but the overall length depends on the complexity of the case and whether the parties can agree on major issues.

Will I have to go to court?

Not always. Many divorces are resolved through settlement or mediation. However, if disputes cannot be resolved, a court hearing or trial may be necessary.

How is property divided?

California follows community property laws, meaning that marital assets and debts are generally divided equally between spouses.

Can child custody arrangements be modified later?

Yes. If circumstances change—such as a parent relocating or a child’s needs evolving—custody and support orders can be modified with court approval.

Contact a San Bernardino Divorce Lawyer

Divorce is never easy, but you do not have to face it alone. At Family Law Advocacy Group, we are committed to guiding you through the process with compassion, experience, and determination. Whether your case involves complex property division, child custody disputes, or spousal support concerns, we will fight to protect your future.

Call (909) 992-0188 today and take the first step toward clarity and peace of mind for your next chapter.

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I Felt Supported and Understood
“From the moment I contacted their office, I felt heard, supported, and—most importantly—understood. They made the process feel manageable and gave me peace of mind every step of the way. They truly fought for what was best for me and my family.”

- Chris C.
Kind and Very Communicative
“What a wonderful experience! Everything went so smoothly, and I felt a sense of relief knowing that this law firm was taking care of me. I would highly recommend them. They are professional, kind, and very communicative. The best!”

- Travis H.
They Kept Me Informed
“I highly recommend this divorce law firm. They always kept me informed throughout the process. They made a difficult situation much easier and truly had my best interests in mind.”

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They Put My Child First
“They made sure my child’s best interests came first. Thomas is a strong advocate in court and truly cares about his clients. I highly recommend this firm to anyone dealing with family or custody matters.”

- Yessica Q.
He Truly Listened
“Going through a custody battle was extremely stressful, but Thomas McColl made me feel supported and confident the entire time. He truly listened, explained everything clearly, and fought for what was best for my child.”

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Guided Me the Whole Way
“I recently hired this firm to help me with my Domestic violence trial. He supported me the whole way, responding and guiding me, and I highly recommend him to represent you. I am happy I made the right choice.”

- Former Client
Professional & Caring
“My attorney is a great child support attorney—professional, caring, and easy to work with. She explained everything clearly and truly had my child’s best interests in mind. I highly recommend her and this firm.”

- Laura A.
They Treated Me Like A Person
“I had an excellent experience with this law office. From the moment I contacted their office, the staff was professional, kind, and incredibly helpful. What really stood out was how the entire team treated me like a person, not just a case.”

- Cristina C.
Exceptionally Attentive
“Stephen has been exceptionally attentive, communicative, and genuinely invested to my case. He takes the time to walk me through every step, answers all of my questions promptly, and ensure I always feel informed and supported.”

- Toni M.
They Listened to My Concerns
“The staff was so helpful and understood completely what I was hoping to achieve! They were amazing in assisting me with my divorce and always listened to my concerns and needs as a client. I couldn’t be happier with my outcome.”

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Caring, Compassionate, and Understanding
“They are very caring, compassionate and understanding. They will work until they get the best outcome for your case. Working with them, I saw nothing but professionalism and commitment to each client they had.”

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They've Been A Godsend
“Finding an attorney you can not only trust, but also have confidence in to deliver results is not an easy task. They have been a godsend and I can't thank them enough for all that they have done. I feel fortunate to have engaged them.”

- Former Client
They Show Up Ready
“Family Law Advocacy Group are true professionals! They were quick to prepare on such short notice; organized, punctual and calm under pressure. They have equal amounts of empathy as they do fight.”

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Best Law Services Around
“My attorney is responsive, thorough, and made sure I had complete understanding of my options. After handling my personal situation so well, I now refer Family Law Advocacy Group to all those I know who would truly benefit from his services.”

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They Take Interest in Clients
“They are very attentive to detail and what is in the best interest of their clients. They are incredibly knowledgeable, thorough, and operate with integrity. They make time for you and get the job done with efficiency.”

- Rachel B.

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