In 1996, California became the first state to legalize medical cannabis. In 2016, the substance became legal for personal use. Since then, the industry has grown to the point that it’s not uncommon to see marijuana sold at retail dispensaries throughout the Golden State. Although marijuana use is legal in California, that doesn’t necessarily mean it is widely accepted in child custody courts. Therefore, if you have a potential or pending child custody matter with this concern, it’s important to know: Can marijuana use impact my child custody case? Continue reading →
Divorce can be incredibly stressful, especially when there is high conflict. Under these conditions, it’s not uncommon for one or both parties to strongly express how they feel about the case and each other. However, sometimes angry comments can get out of hand to the point of becoming misleading and inaccurate. Depending on what gets said, these statements may be so false and damaging as to constitute defamation. Here is more on defamation and California divorce. Continue reading →
When a court has jurisdiction over a case, it has the legal authority to make rulings and decisions regarding the issues and the parties. Jurisdiction can usually be found where the parties and property at issue are located. However, it can be less clear in a custody case when the parties and their children reside in different communities. Therefore, if you are involved in a California child custody matter, you need to know: How does jurisdiction work in a California child custody case? Continue reading →
When you hear the term “prenup” or prenuptial agreement, it may conjure images of extremely wealthy or famous people. However, these legal instruments can also be helpful to people of ordinary means. Therefore, depending on your finances and relationship, having a prenuptial agreement in place before you walk down the aisle may be a good move for you and your future spouse. Here are 5 reasons to get a California Prenup: Continue reading →
After divorce, there can be circumstances when a parent has the right to see their kids but fails to do so. If your ex is not involved in your kids’ lives, you may think: My ex doesn’t see my kids. Can I terminate their parental rights? Continue reading →
Dividing marital property during a divorce case often involves retirement. This crucial resource can be one of the most important and valuable assets in a case. However, unlike other marital property, most retirement accounts must be divided using a specific document called a qualified domestic relations order (QDRO). Continue reading →
Getting through your divorce can feel like running a marathon. When it’s over and your divorce documents are signed and filed, it can feel like you can finally breathe and move on with your life. Once your case is over, the last thing you want is to have to return to court over a divorce-related issue. However, there can be circumstances when a court should set aside a divorce order. If you have concerns about your California divorce order being final, you need to know: Can my divorce judgment be set aside? Continue reading →
Developing mutually agreeable custody terms during divorce can be a lengthy and involved process. Even when parents are relatively amicable, it can be challenging to craft orders that consider and balance everyone’s needs. Once your final legal and physical custody terms are in place, it can be a relief. However, what happens if you need to relocate? In this situation, you need to know: How will my move impact my California child custody order? Continue reading →
If you have been considering divorce, you may believe you have no choice but to go through a dramatic court hearing to end your marriage. While fighting with your ex in court is possible, you also have other alternatives for completing your California divorce. If you are involved in a California divorce, you need to know: What are my California divorce options? Continue reading →
There can be several reasons for a divorce. Sometimes a marriage will end because of a traumatic event such as infidelity or physical abuse. Other times, multiple issues may contribute to the relationship’s end. Marriages usually end for very personal and specific reasons. However, most causes will not be considered “grounds” for a California divorce. If you are considering filing for divorce in California, you need to know: What are the grounds for a California divorce? Continue reading →