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Law Offices of Kimberly Prendergast Law Offices of Kimberly Prendergast
San Bernardino Divorce & Family Law let the law offices of kimberly prendergast assist you with your family law needs. contact us

Redlands Contested Divorce Attorney

Assisting Clients Through The Contested Divorce Process in California

When a couple decides to end their marriage, they can do so amicably and without much conflict. However, this is only sometimes the case. In some situations, the couple may not agree on all of the terms of their divorce, which can lead to a contested divorce. At the Law Offices of Kimberly Prendergast, we know the challenges and the potential impact a contested divorce can have on your life. We are here to provide the compassionate advice you need and the assertive representation you deserve. Our Redlands contested divorce lawyer will work tirelessly to help you reach the best possible result in your case.

Call the Law Offices of Kimberly Prendergast today at (909) 324-2950 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our contested divorce lawyer in Redlands.

What is a Contested Divorce?

A contested divorce transpires when spouses cannot agree on crucial issues such as property division, child custody, spousal support, or other significant matters related to their separation. In such cases, both parties present their arguments and evidence to a judge to decide on these issues. Having a skilled contested divorce attorney by your side is crucial to navigating the legal intricacies and protecting your rights throughout the process.

Requirements for a Contested Divorce in California

In California, certain requirements must be met to initiate a contested divorce. These include:

  • Residency: At least one spouse must have been a resident of California for a minimum of six months and of the county where the divorce is filed for three months before filing.
  • Grounds for Divorce: California is a no-fault divorce state, meaning neither party must prove fault for the divorce. Common grounds for divorce include irreconcilable differences or permanent legal incapacity.
  • Filing the Petition: The spouse initiating the divorce will need to file a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, outlining the reasons for the divorce and the desired outcomes regarding issues like child custody, support, and property division.
  • Service of Process: The other spouse must be served with the divorce papers, allowing them to respond. If they disagree with any aspect of the divorce, it becomes contested.
  • Financial Disclosures: Both parties must disclose their financial information, ensuring transparency in dividing assets and debts.
  • “I didn't think I would get so flustered in court, but I'm glad we had the support of Ms Prendergast to help guide us along. We won our restraining order and we are so thankful for her help, professionalism, and guidance. I highly recommend.” - Former Client
  • “Kim and her staff handled the situation with sensitivity, empathy and caution, reaching out to other attorneys and researching law enforcement advisement when necessary. She was always available to me, and even though the bills added up, I feel she worked” - Former Client
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How Long Does a Contested Divorce Take in California?

The duration of a contested divorce in the state of California can differ based on several elements, including the complexity of the specific issues involved, the level of cooperation between spouses, and the court's caseload. On average, a contested divorce may take several months to over a year.

  • Discovery Process: This stage involves gathering information and evidence relevant to the case. It includes financial disclosures, depositions, and other methods to uncover facts that may impact the court's decisions.
  • Negotiations and Mediation: Attempting to resolve disputes through negotiations or mediation can expedite the process.
  • Court Proceedings: If an amicable resolution is not achievable, the case proceeds to court. The court schedules hearings and trials to address the contested issues and make final decisions.

Contact Our Redlands Contested Divorce Lawyer Today

The Law Offices of Kimberly Prendergast is here to guide you through every step of the process, guarding your rights and advocating for your best interests. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our Redlands contested divorce attorney. We are committed to delivering personalized and effective legal representation to help you navigate this challenging chapter in your life.

Contact the Law Offices of Kimberly Prendergast today to get started with our Redlands contested divorce attorney.

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