10Jan 2021 by Pat Geddie
Divorce Negotiations

Divorce Negotiations

Divorce
When two people decide to get divorced, it is often because they are having trouble agreeing on certain issues in their lives. They then face the conundrum that a divorce can be much easier if spouses can reach agreements on all major issues, including child custody, child support, spousal support, and community property division. The good news is that spouses do not have to agree on everything from the outset in order to avoid litigation and save resources. Instead, the right California divorce lawyer can facilitate negotiations and other options for you to try to reach an agreement out of court. First, each spouse and their respective attorneys will trade information, so all parties have the full picture of finances and other circumstances of the marriage. Then, the attorneys can…
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04Jan 2021 by Pat Geddie
Are You Considering Divorce for 2021?

Are You Considering Divorce for 2021?

Divorce
2020 was a difficult year for most people, whether it was challenging financially, emotionally, or both. Families felt a lot of pressure, and marriages were certainly challenged. If you believe that you cannot resolve the conflict between you and your spouse - or you think your spouse wants to end the marriage - do not hesitate to learn the steps you can take to prepare for divorce and protect your rights. Learn about Your Options Knowing your options for how divorce cases proceed in California can help you get an idea of what to expect. An attorney can assess your situation and advise you which of the following might be the course of your divorce: UncontestedContestedMediationCollaborative divorce The type of divorce you will have will depend on your goals and…
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05Feb 2020 by Pat Geddie
Is Your Spouse Hiding Assets?

Is Your Spouse Hiding Assets?

Divorce
In a divorce case, California law requires that spouses divide all community property equally. This means that absent a valid prenuptial agreement, you are entitled to half of the total property and assets you acquired during your marriage. While this seems like a fairly straightforward requirement, many spouses might try to conceal assets or engage in other deceptive tactics to try to keep more than their fair share in a divorce. There are different ways your spouse might try to hide assets in your divorce, such as: Failing to disclose certain accounts or propertyDevaluing property or understating asset values Understating or delaying incomeMaking large purchasesGiving away assets to others until after the divorceMoving assets to secret accounts Fair divorce outcomes are dependent on open and honest disclosures regarding income, property,…
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21Nov 2019 by Pat Geddie
Preparing for a Divorce Case

Preparing for a Divorce Case

Divorce
Most people do not get married while anticipating a divorce case down the road. However, many people might have a feeling that divorce is in their future before a case is filed. If you are in this situation, there are some things you can do to prepare for a possible divorce. Gather Important Documents It is important to have a picture of your financial situation going into a divorce. Further, when your spouse learns about the divorce, they might try to make it difficult for you to access certain records or information. In advance, it is wise to gather the following (among any other relevant documents): Bank statementsInvestment accountsCredit card and loan statementsSocial security cards and birth certificates for the whole familyInventory of personal propertyTitles and deedsRetirement accountsPay statements for…
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