Either way, you are now facing a process that will touch nearly every part of your life, your finances, your children, your home, your future. The decisions made during a divorce are not temporary. They follow you. Which means the way your case is handled matters enormously.
Jos Family Law represents clients across the full spectrum of divorce in Orange County, from uncontested matters to highly complex cases involving significant assets, business interests, and contested custody matters. Wherever you are in this process, we will meet you there.
California is a no-fault divorce state - neither party is required to prove wrongdoing to file. But that does not make the process simple. Below is what to expect at every stage.
If you and your spouse agree on all terms, your divorce is uncontested - faster, less costly, and less adversarial. If you disagree on any significant issue, it is contested and will require negotiation or litigation to resolve. Many divorces begin contested and settle before trial.
One spouse files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage and serves the other party, who has 30 days to respond.
Before a final judgment, the court can issue temporary orders covering custody, support, and use of the family home. These orders govern daily life during the divorce - and getting them right from the start matters.
Both parties must fully disclose all assets, debts, income, and expenses. If you suspect your spouse is concealing assets, that is something we address directly.
California is a community property state. Assets acquired during the marriage are generally divided equally - though separate property, commingled assets, and business interests require careful analysis.
Courts prioritize the best interests of the child. Your parental rights deserve the same priority.
Most divorces resolve without going to trial. We help clients evaluate whether negotiation or mediation is appropriate and represent them effectively through either. When litigation is necessary, we are prepared to go the distance.
California requires a minimum of six months from the date of service of the petition before the status of the parties as husband and wife can terminate - regardless of how quickly both parties reach agreement on other issues.
Legal fees vary depending on complexity, cooperation, and how efficiently the case is managed. We provide an explanation of fees during your consultation.
Your first consultation is a confidential, deep-dive analysis. Bring financial records, child-related information, and any court documents. We will listen to your situation, ask the right questions, and give you an honest assessment of where you stand and what your options are.
At minimum, six months from the date of service. Uncontested divorces can possibly finalize close to that timeline. Contested matters involving assets, custody, or support disputes typically take longer depending on complexity, cooperation, the need for court orders, and court availability.
Do not wait. An attorney working without opposition will move the case in their client's direction. Jos Family Law steps into cases at any stage.
In many cases, yes. Mediation can be faster, less expensive, and less adversarial than litigation. We help clients determine whether it is appropriate for their situation and represent them through the process.
An uncontested divorce can move significantly faster and at lower cost. Even when both parties agree, having an attorney review all terms before signing protects you from agreeing to something that does not serve your long-term interests.
Explore MoreJos Family Law was my second attorney for my divorce, and the difference was immediate. Knowledgeable, fair, and genuinely professional. They made an incredibly painful process far more manageable and never once made me feel like I was just a billable hour. I recommend them without hesitation.
