Santa Barbara Family Attorney Answers Frequently Asked Questions

Going through a divorce can be a difficult and emotionally trying process, as well as a complex one. Listed below are some common questions asked of Santa Barbara County family attorney Glenn L. Robertson about divorce in California aimed to help you better understand the divorce process:

• What is the role of a family attorney in Santa Barbara? As family attorneys in Santa Barbara, we understand the important role that family plays in our lives. That is why we apply all our skill and knowledge to help resolve family disputes as amicably as possible. We assist clients in divorce or dissolution of marriage, collaborative law, community property and property division, child custody, child support, paternity and maternity, and spousal support.
• What is the divorce process in California? A spouse can file for divorce in California even if the only reason is that irreconcilable differences caused the irremediable breakdown of the marriage. To file for divorce, one spouse must file a petition either for dissolution of marriage or for legal separation. A divorce generally takes at least six months, and if litigation becomes necessary, it can take significantly longer. It is important to hire an experienced Santa Barbara family attorney to help you through this process.
• What about child support in California? Under California state law both parents have an equal obligation to take care of their children. The courts consider various factors to determine what is in the best interest of the child, such as the income and financial stability of each parent, work hours, and the level of responsibility involved in child rearing. A family or collaborative law attorney can help you reach a fair resolution with your spouse.
• What are child custody laws in California? California prefers custody arrangements that enable both parents to be involved in the lives of their children. A parent can be given any of the following: sole legal custody, sole physical custody, joint legal custody, joint physical custody, or joint custody, meaning both joint legal and physical custody. When child custody is an issue, it is of the utmost importance that you hire an attorney who will fight on your behalf.
• What is the difference between a family lawyer and a divorce lawyer? While divorce lawyers only handle divorce cases, family lawyers can assist in all sorts of issues and disputes that arise within a family.

Contact us

If you are involved in a family law dispute, it is critical that you seek assistance from an experienced attorney skilled at resolving these difficult matters through litigation or collaborative law. To schedule a consultation with us to discuss your family law issue, contact Santa Barbara family law lawyer Glenn L. Robertson today at 805-284-9699.