Divorce Attorney | Huntington Beach

Guidance From a Divorce Attorney When You Need It Most

A divorce, or dissolution of marriage, is the legal process by which the marital union is canceled through a court judgment. This is never easy — but working with the right attorney makes a significant difference in both the process and its outcome.

At Furubotten Law, APC, founding attorney Denise Furubotten brings more than 30 years of California family law experience to each case, along with in-depth knowledge of California divorce law and the specific practices of courts across Orange, Riverside, Los Angeles, and San Diego Counties.

What Issues Arise in a California Divorce?

When terminating a marriage, parties will almost always address the following issues:

Accurate and fair division of property and debts under California's community property laws
Ongoing financial support — spousal support or alimony
Parenting plans and child custody arrangements
Calculation of child support awards and modifications

Why You Should Not Handle Your Divorce Alone

Even in simple cases with no children and few assets, divorces involve legally binding agreements that affect your financial future. Common risks of a do-it-yourself divorce include:

Inaccurate identification or valuation of marital assets
Mistakes in completing required court forms
Failure to address pension, retirement, or business interests properly
Signing agreements that disadvantage you long-term
Missing deadlines that result in default judgments

The value of working with an experienced divorce attorney is not just legal knowledge — it is strategic judgment developed over decades of representing clients in California's family courts.

How California Divorce Works

California is a no-fault divorce state under Family Code §2310, meaning a divorce can be granted on the basis of irreconcilable differences without proving wrongdoing by either spouse. California also imposes a mandatory six-month waiting period before a divorce can be finalized (California Family Code §2339).

To file for divorce in California, at least one spouse must have been a resident of the state for at least six months and a resident of the county where the petition is filed for at least three months immediately before filing.

Frequently Asked Questions About California Divorce

How do I file for divorce in California?

To file for divorce, you submit a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (FL-100) and a Summons (FL-110) with your county superior court, pay the filing fee, and serve papers on your spouse. The process varies depending on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested. Our team can guide you through every step.

How long does a California divorce take?

California law requires a minimum six-month waiting period from the date the respondent is served before a divorce can be finalized. Uncontested divorces may be completed close to this minimum. Contested divorces involving significant assets, children, or disputes can take considerably longer.

What is the difference between contested and uncontested divorce?

An uncontested divorce occurs when both parties agree on all terms — property division, support, custody, and visitation. A contested divorce involves one or more disputed issues that require negotiation, mediation, or court resolution. Even in largely uncontested cases, having an attorney review any agreement before signing is strongly advisable.

Is California a community property state?

Yes. Under California Family Code §760, property acquired during the marriage is generally presumed to be community property and is subject to equal division upon divorce. Separate property — assets owned before marriage or received as gifts or inheritance — is generally not subject to division. Proper characterization of assets is critical and often requires legal expertise.

Can we avoid going to court?

Yes. Many divorces are resolved through negotiation or settlement without a court trial. However, a judge must still approve any final agreement. While Denise does not serve as a mediator, she represents clients through the full process and works toward efficient, favorable resolutions whenever possible.

Serving Divorce Clients Throughout Southern California

Furubotten Law, APC represents divorce clients at courthouses throughout Orange County, Riverside County, Los Angeles County, and San Diego County. Our primary offices are in Huntington Beach and Murrieta, providing convenient access for clients across both Orange County and the Temecula-Murrieta area.

Last reviewed: May 2026 · Author: Denise Furubotten, Esq.

Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this page does not create an attorney-client relationship with Furubotten Law, APC. Consult a qualified California family law attorney for advice tailored to your situation.

California Divorce Attorney