In the past, spouses who wished to divorce in California needed to prove fault to receive a divorce. Some of the California grounds for divorce included adultery, abandonment, and substance abuse.
Fortunately, times have changed. Divorcing couples no longer have to prove fault to get divorced.
If you are considering a divorce in California, it is important to know the grounds for divorce. California grounds for divorce are straightforward. You can get a divorce on the grounds that the marriage is irrevocably broken. Simply wishing to divorce is enough.
Is California a No-Fault Divorce State?
California is a no-fault divorce state. That means that anyone can file for divorce for any reason. You can petition for a divorce even if your spouse contests the divorce.
You do not need to prove infidelity or establish that your spouse did anything wrong. Keep in mind, though, that the court will consider other circumstances, such as domestic violence when making determinations about issues including:
- Alimony or spousal support
- Child support
- Child custody
Rules for Divorce in California
While you may not need to prove fault to divorce in California, there are some requirements:
- There is a mandatory six-month waiting period before the divorce is finalized
- One of the parties must be a resident of California for at least six months before filing for divorce.
- The filing must occur in the county where either party resides.
- Either party must have resided in that county for at least three months.
How Can a Divorce Attorney Help Me?
When filing for a divorce, a divorce attorney can help you through the process. Divorce is complicated and often contentious. Emotions often run high.
During this time, individuals are often concerned about parenting rights, financial assets, and their futures. You and your spouse will have to find resolution on many different matters, including:
- Division of assets
- Child support
- Child custody
- Parenting plans
Contact Our San Jose Divorce Lawyer Today
If you are considering divorce in California, it is important to know when and how you can file for divorce. California divorce laws are different from divorce laws in other states. As such, it is important to talk to an experienced and skilled San Jose divorce lawyer as soon as you are able.
At the Law Offices of Thomas Nicholas Cvietkovich, we offer a free initial consultation to help you during this difficult time. Our San Jose divorce lawyer can work with you one-on-one to answer your questions and help you choose the path that is best for you. Call us today at (408) 844-4016 or fill out our online contact form for more information.