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A divorce (Dissolution of Marriage) is the legal end to your marriage, and requires filing documents in court.

To get divorced, one spouse must file a petition, and the other spouse will file a response. You and your spouse must decide how to split property and other assets, who will have custody of your children, and whether child or spousal support must be paid. After completing the process, you will get a final judgment from the court.

A legal separation follows the same process as a divorce, and requires a court order to determine the rights and duties of a couple while they are still married but living separately.

The only difference between divorce and legal separation is your marital status. You and your spouse will be single at the end of a divorce, but still married at the end of a legal separation.

If you think you and your spouse agree on most issues, we recommend you use mediation first to help you and your spouse find common ground to end your marriage (or domestic partnership) with less bitterness.

If you don’t agree on anything (or so it would seem), we start with negotiation because courtroom battles are a last resort not a default strategy. Divorce or legal separation is best accomplished through cooperation, especially if you have children.

If you are going through a divorce or need help with another family law matter, connect with our lawyers. Call (858) 717-8040, text (858) 240-4234 or click here to book your Legal Advice and Strategy Session. We represent people in the County of San Diego, California.