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:

1. Filing the Petition: One spouse (the petitioner) files a divorce petition with the court and serves the other spouse (the respondent).
2. Response: The respondent has 30 days to file a response.
3. Temporary Orders: The court may issue temporary orders regarding child custody, support, or use of property while the divorce is pending.
4. Discovery: Both spouses exchange financial documents and other information to ensure full disclosure of assets and debts.
5. Negotiation & Settlement: Many divorces are resolved through negotiation, mediation, or collaborative law, avoiding a trial.
6. Trial (if necessary): If the parties cannot agree on all issues, a judge will make the final decisions.
7. 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.

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.