What To Know In A LGBT Divorce In California
Rarely is a divorce process ever easy. Unless both parties can agree on every matter and every detail of the terms of the divorce, the divorce process is usually contentious and very stressful. Whether part of an LGBT couple or not, divorces can have unique complications that can make the process time-consuming and costly. If you believe your marriage is coming to an end, it can be beneficial to obtain the qualified support of an experienced family law attorney. Southern California’s family law attorneys at RM Law Group, LLP can help you through this difficult time.
RM Law Group, LLP is a law firm solely dedicated to matters of family law, including divorce cases. The law firm is heavily experienced in the most contentious divorce cases, and they understand the challenges spouses face during the difficult legal process. When it comes to divorce in California, there are many aspects of the legal dissolution that should be assessed and fully resolved so that both parties can move on with their lives. Consider obtaining the support of RM Law Group, LLP to ensure your rights and interests are protected. Schedule a free complimentary consultation with the law firm by calling 888-765-2902.
Residency Requirements for an LGBT Divorce
Many aspects of an LGBT divorce are identical to those of heterosexual divorce. For instance, an LGBT divorce is also a no-fault divorce process, meaning, it is not necessary to demonstrate who is to blame for committing a fault in the marriage. There is no need to point fingers in order to get a divorce in California.
Still, LGBT divorces can sometimes differ from heterosexual divorces. One way in which they do differ is in the residency requirements. In a heterosexual divorce, at least one party must have lived in the State of California for a minimum of six months before the divorce was filed. The party must also have lived in the county where the case was filed for a period of at least three months.
This is not relevant for LGBT parties. To file for divorce in California, the party filing for divorce does not have to meet residency requirements. The filing party can seek a divorce regardless of where he or she lives. This is true even in cases where the filing party lives outside of the state.
How Long Does it Take to Finalize a Divorce?
Although there is no residency requirement for an LGBT couple, there is a set amount of time a couple must wait before the divorce can be finalized. This is true whether the divorce is LGBT or not.
In California, the divorce will not be signed off until at least six months have passed since the divorce was filed. Specifically, a minimum of six months since the time the non-filing party was served the documents.
Waiting six months is non-negotiable, even when couples can agree on most or all of the terms of the divorce. When issues cannot be resolved, however, it can be advantageous to make the most out of the waiting period and renegotiate any contentious terms.
Schedule a Complimentary Case Evaluation with a Proficient LGBT Divorce Attorney
Whether part of the LGBT community or not, a divorce can be a very difficult and stressful time. If you believe your marriage is coming to an end, you deserve professional guidance and support that will help you move on with your life.
With the dedicated family law attorneys at RM Law Group, LLP, you can find the support you deserve. The law firm has many years of dedicated legal experience handling an array of family law cases, including difficult divorce cases. The attorneys at RM Law Group, LLP are here to provide you with the legal assistance you need and advocate on your behalf in negotiations. Consider arranging a free initial consultation with the law firm. You can schedule a consultation by completing the confidential contact form here.
Jason Martinez is a co-founding partner of RM Law Group, LLP. His practice focuses exclusively on California Family Law and community property division, including litigation and settlement of complex and high-conflict divorce and child custody proceedings. Jason understands that divorce and family law issues have long-term effects on all family members, especially the children.
