Ontario Legal Separation Lawyer

In many cases, struggling Ontario, CA couples may need some space to themselves. Legal separation is a healthy alternative to divorce for couples who need time to evaluate their relationship. No matter why you and your partner may have chosen the route of legal separation, this method allows you to work on what you need to while remaining legally married. If you and your spouse are considering separating, our Ontario legal separation attorneys can help you through your case.

California Legal Separation Lawyers: All American Law

Relationships can be more than difficult. Here at All American Law, we understand just how strenuous any relationship can be, which is why we offer a variety of expert family law services as well as compassionate support to assist our clients through whatever legal path they have decided to take. Our team of attorneys shares over thirty years of experience combined, which allows us to create a working solution unique to your current situation. Whether you are looking to become legally separated or you would like to learn more about you and your partner’s options, All American Law can help you with any of your family law needs.

What Is Legal Separation in California?

Legal separation is an alternative to divorce that allows couples to take space from each other legally while they evaluate their relationship and figure out what is best for their future. In a legal separation, the couple is still married in the eyes of the law, but they are living separately and have their debts, property, and finances divided.

What Is the Difference Between a Divorce and a Legal Separation?

Many people are unsure of the differences between a legal separation and a divorce. The biggest distinction is that a divorce is the legal ending of a marriage, while a legal separation allows for a couple to be legally separated while still being married under the law. For many couples, legal separation is a better choice when they are unsure of what is best for them at the moment. In addition to the difference in legalities, a divorce is also a much longer and more expensive option than legally separating. There is no waiting period, the process does not go through court, and a couple can make agreements together with the help of an attorney. Divorces also have more requirements that must be met than when filing for separation.

How a Legal Separation Attorney Can Help You

When it comes to filing for legal separation from your spouse, working with one of our experienced family law attorneys can make the process much easier on everyone involved. Some of the ways our team can help you include:

Explain the Separation Process

Both divorces and separations come with many questions from the parties involved. By hiring one of our attorneys, we can not only explain the details of the separation process in California and how it works, but we can make sure that you understand it, too. There are a variety of different requirements and benefits of a separation that differ from a divorce.

Help You File for Separation

When filing for separation, you will need to make sure you are eligible, fill out the correct paperwork, pay fees, and come to an agreement on aspects like property division. Because there are a variety of small, important details in a separation case, having one of our family law attorneys on your side can help ensure that everything is taken care of properly and legally. We can also assist in the filing process.

Assist With Division of Property and Child Support

Like a divorce, a legal separation will divide property, debts, and some financial aspects of a marriage. Working with one of our legal separation attorneys can help you and your spouse come to an agreement and ensure that things are divided fairly. Our attorneys can also help with finding solutions for aspects such as child support payments and parenting time. Then, we can assist you in drafting your legal separation agreement.

FAQs About Ontario, CA Legal Separation Law

How Much Does It Cost to Legally Separate in California?

On average, the cost of the fee you pay to file for a legal separation is usually $435. Depending on the county you are in, this may vary, and it can be around $450. A qualified and experienced legal separation attorney can help you file the paperwork and determine how much the separation will cost in your area.

Do You Have to File for Separation in California?

Although it is not legally required, having your separation legally recognized can help with determining details such as property division and parenting time. Many people who feel that their situation may end in a divorce prefer to legally separate beforehand, allowing them to better organize their individual lives.

Does a Separation Agreement in California Need to Be Notarized?

Yes. For your separation to be legal, you must draft a written separation agreement that is signed by both partners and then notarized. This is because separation cases do not have to go through court. A legal separation attorney can help you prepare the documents and guide you through all relevant procedures.

Are There Residency Requirements for Legal Separation in California?

Unlike divorces, there is no residency requirement where both spouses must have lived in the state for six months. In a legal separation, at least one partner must be a resident of California. However, there is no specified length of time for that person to have legally resided in the state.

Is a Legal Separation the Same as a Divorce?

No, they are not the same, although they share some similarities. With a legal separation, even when it is finalized, a couple is still legally married. A divorce, on the other hand, legally dissolves a marriage and the couple is no longer legally together. Both will require a division of finances, debts, and property.

Ontario Legal Separation Assistance

No matter what the reason may be that you and your spouse have decided to legally separate, our team of attorneys at All American Law is prepared to assist you. We understand that separating can be a complex and emotional process, which is why we are dedicated to providing legal assistance and support throughout your separation. With our experience and knowledge of the law, we can work to help make this process go as smoothly as possible. If you and your partner are looking to legally separate in Ontario, California, see how our team can help you. For more information on our services or to schedule a free consultation with us, contact our team today.