California Divorce Process

Fremont, California, Divorce Law Firm

Filing for Divorce in California

For over 35 years, attorney and certified family law specialist Michael Connich has guided clients through the California divorce process. Our California divorce law firm helps clients understand the law, understand each step in the process, and reach a settlement or verdict that meets client objectives.

Guiding Clients through Major Transitions for over 35 years

What can you expect in the divorce process? Every divorce is different because the spouses and their circumstances are different from anyone else’s. However, all California divorces are subject to the same laws.

• File a petition: The first step is for one of the parties to file a petition for divorce. That spouse is the petitioner. The other spouse is the respondent.
   
• File a response: Within 30 days, the non-petitioning spouse must file a response.
   
• Order to show cause: The petitioner may immediately ask for an order concerning temporary custody, child support, and/or temporary use of property. When necessary, the court may be asked for a restraining order.
   
• Disclosure requirements: Both parties must do preliminary financial disclosures, to include disclosure of assets and liabilities as well as income and expense declarations. At a later date, both parties must submit a final disclosure declarations.
   
• Discovery process: Discovery can include interrogatories, requests for additional documents, and depositions.
   
• Settlement negotiation: The settlement negotiation process may involve four-way meetings, meet and confer, status conferences with the judge, and settlement conferences with the other party and the court.
   
• Prepare for settlement agreement or prepare for trial: If the parties agree, a settlement agreement can be prepared for the judge’s approval. If the parties do not agree, then they must prepare for trial.

At every step in the divorce process, you need a family law attorney who will protect your rights and interests. The stakes are high, and the results will stay with you and your children for many years to come. Make sure you have a lawyer with experience and a personal commitment to your case.

At Connich & Grewal, LLP, our family law attorneys take a personal interest in each client. We will keep you informed about your case, explain the law, and answer all your divorce questions. Call for an appointment.