Torrance Contested Divorce Lawyer
What Is a Contested Divorce in California?
A contested divorce is when spouses do not agree on some or all the terms of their divorce. Typically, this means they cannot reach a consensus about matters such as child custody, child support, spousal support, property division, and other key aspects of the divorce settlement.
Contested divorces are frequently complex, and they can put emotional and financial strains on the involved parties. This is where Michael D. Shook, Attorney At Law, can help. Since 1994 attorney Shook has been guiding families through divorces and fighting for their rights and best interests at every turn. With your case in his hands, you can feel confident navigating California’s divorce process. He offers affordable services and payment plans for those who need them.
To speak with a contested divorce lawyer in Torrance with unparalleled experience and unwavering commitment to serving California families, call Attorney Shook today. Initial case reviews are free, so there is no reason to wait to find out what he can offer.
Call (310) 361-2977 or get in touch online.
California’s Divorce Process
California’s divorce process includes four major steps: initiating the divorce, exchanging information, settling the divorce terms, and finalizing the divorce.
Below we have described what these divorce steps entail:
- Initiating the Divorce: One spouse (the petitioner) must file for divorce with the court. Then, they must serve a copy of the filing to the other spouse. The spouse who is served divorce papers has 30 days to respond.
- Exchanging Information: Spouses must share information about their finances and assets, which courts may use when dividing property. Additionally, spouses may request temporary orders before engaging in negotiations to handle matters related to child custody or use of marital property.
- Settling the Divorce Terms: Spouses must negotiate their divorce settlement. If they cannot, they may choose to participate in mediation. If neither negotiations nor mediation work, a judge must settle the divorce case.
- Finalizing the Divorce: Once parties have resolved all disputes, a judge will sign the divorce “judgment,” a binding document that specifies the terms of the divorce. The divorce is final after the judgment has been signed and filed.
Why Is Divorce So Complicated?
Divorces can be fraught and challenging due to a variety of factors. Feelings of anger, sadness, betrayal, and loss can complicate decision-making and communication, making it challenging to reach agreements on important issues.
Divorces also often involve children. Determining child custody and visitation arrangements can be one of the most contentious aspects of the process. Both parents may have different opinions on the best interests of the child, which leads to taxing negotiations.
In addition to the above, divorces have the potential to be financially difficult. From paying for the divorce to worrying about property division or whether the settlement will include child or spousal support, money can be a big factor in divorce.
With so much at stake in contested divorces, it can be beneficial for individuals to turn to various professionals, whether it is a family law attorney, therapist, or financial advisor. The support these people offer could prove to be invaluable.
How Our Torrance Contested Divorce Attorney Can Help
Torrance contested divorce lawyer Michael D. Shook is a veteran of Los Angeles County Courts. No matter the case, he puts his knowledge and skill to use, working tirelessly for the outcomes he knows his clients and their families need.
Here is what those who turn to Attorney Shook can also expect:
- Individualized Strategy: He communicates directly with every client and develops legal strategies tailored to their best interests.
- Skilled Negotiation: Our attorney has a wealth of experience representing clients in negotiation and mediation. He strives to minimize conflict and find mutually agreeable solutions.
- Aggressive Courtroom Representation: Should a case go to court, Attorney Shook is prepared to litigate a case and advocate for the rights of his clients.
- Compassionate Support: After over three decades of practicing family law, Attorney Shook has seen the toll these cases take. That is why he works compassionately with clients and their families.
Are you interested in scheduling a free case review? Call (310) 361-2977 to learn what Attorney Shook can do for you.