Divorce Lawyer in Los Angeles
Consult with a Trusted LA Divorce Attorney for Guidance
Research shows that almost 50 percent of marriages in the U.S. end in divorce. Divorce often brings up a wide range of emotions and can feel overwhelming. Hiring a Los Angeles divorce lawyer early in the process can ease these worries and may even help resolve your case more efficiently.
At the Sub:BusinessName}, we provide caring counsel, strong negotiation skills, and assertive legal representation. Our founding attorney, Rozanna M. Velen, is a board-certified family law specialist and has the knowledge and experience to guide clients through the California Family Code.
From custody battles to asset division, our Los Angeles divorce lawyers are here to support you at every stage. Call (818) 962-4669 or contact Law Offices of Korol & Velen now.
Comprehensive Divorce-Related Services We Provide in LA
We handle all divorce-related issues, including:
- Marital property division
- Spousal support
- High-net-worth divorce
- Child custody and visitation
- Child support
- Divorce Mediation
For a combined 40 years, our lawyers have handled many contested divorces with competence, compassion, and personalized attention. The Los Angeles divorce attorneys at the Law Offices of Korol & Velen are committed to protecting your rights and family.
Understanding the Divorce Process in California
The prospect of divorce brings clients to our office with a range of emotions. At the Law Offices of Korol & Velen, we remain sensitive to the challenges facing anyone dealing with a marital breakdown.
When you go through a divorce, you may lose support—both financial and emotional. We have handled hundreds of divorce cases with competence, compassion, and personal attention.
Hiring an LA divorce attorney early can help prevent mistakes that often happen when someone tries to handle their case alone. Many clients contact us after attempting to manage the process by themselves, only to find the legal system difficult to navigate without professional support.
Reaching out for legal help at the start can prevent problems, save time, and reduce stress. Trust your case to our team!
The Impact of Los Angeles Courts on Your Divorce
Los Angeles County has several family law courthouses, and each one operates with its own procedures and timelines. Where you live determines which courthouse hears your case, which can influence scheduling, filing requirements, and how quickly your divorce moves forward.
- Different Courthouses, Different Schedules: Locations such as the Stanley Mosk Courthouse and the Van Nuys East Courthouse follow their own schedules and filing expectations, which can affect processing times.
- Zip Code Determines Your Courthouse: Residents of areas like Woodland Hills, West Hollywood, and Pasadena may be assigned to different courts, each with unique local practices that shape your case timeline.
- Judges Have Varying Approaches: Even within the same courthouse, judges may differ in how they handle custody, property division, or spousal support, which may influence outcomes.
Divorce attorneys familiar with Los Angeles County’s family law system can anticipate courthouse procedures and judge preferences, helping you avoid delays and navigate your divorce with confidence.
California's Community Property Laws Explained
California is a community property state, which means all assets acquired during marriage—including the increased value of assets brought to the marriage—are part of the community property. This can include:
- Income
- Personal property
- Real estate
- Bank accounts
- Retirement accounts
- Patents, copyrights, and trademarks
- Capital gains on investments
- Businesses
Insights on Spousal Support Under California Law
Spousal support, also called alimony, may be available when one partner’s income is higher, especially if the other party has less education or earning potential. Spousal support awards in Los Angeles reflect the area’s high cost of living and unique financial dynamics.
The amount of spousal support depends on many factors, including:
- The income levels of both parties
- Custody arrangement
- Standard of living during the marriage
- Length of the marriage
- Housing situations
- Contributions to the marriage
If the marriage has lasted over 10 years, support may be granted until the recipient remarries or either party passes away.
Our experience with the Los Angeles court system allows us to identify when support arrangements need additional documentation or focused negotiation. Our divorce lawyers help clients consider the impact that local housing prices, job markets, and access to education have on spousal support discussions.
Addressing High Net Worth and Complex Divorce Cases in Los Angeles
Los Angeles attracts professionals in technology, entertainment, and business ownership. Many divorces in this area involve significant assets such as:
- Real estate
- Business holdings
- Retirement accounts
- Intelectual property
- Complex financial arrangements
The Law Offices of Korol & Velen focuses on transparent communication as we divide high-value assets, aiming for accuracy and minimal conflict. We also meet the needs of families concerned about privacy or involvement in the entertainment industry, delivering guidance tailored to the demands of the local market. By working directly with Los Angeles divorce attorneys who regularly handle complex separations, clients receive attentive support throughout settlement discussions or court hearings.
Award-Winning Counsel
On Your Side
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Rated Amongst the Top 50 Women Attorneys in Southern California
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Selected to Super Lawyers Every Year Since 2007
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Board Certified California Family Law Specialist
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40 Years of Combined Legal Experience
Uncontested Divorce Solutions for Los Angeles Residents
In the bustling city of Los Angeles, navigating the emotional and legal complexities of divorce can be overwhelming. For many couples, an uncontested divorce offers a more amicable and efficient path to separation. Key points include:
- A simpler, more efficient process: Uncontested divorces allow couples to agree on major issues—property division, custody, support—avoiding drawn-out court battles.
- Local court resources: The Los Angeles County Superior Court provides required forms and instructions, but understanding local rules is essential to avoid delays.
- Community support options: The Los Angeles Department of Family Services offers workshops and emotional support resources for individuals navigating divorce.
- Relief from common concerns: LA residents often worry about financial stability, child custody, and community property rules; an uncontested divorce can reduce these stressors by keeping decisions in your hands.
- Benefits of a cooperative approach: This process saves time, lowers legal costs, and helps maintain a more positive relationship—especially important when children are involved.
Our team is well-versed in the unique challenges faced by Los Angeles residents, and we are here to help you navigate the process with compassion and understanding. For those in Los Angeles looking to explore the benefits of an uncontested divorce, we invite you to reach out to our lawyers. We are committed to helping you achieve a resolution that works for you and your family.
Settling a Divorce vs. Divorce Litigation
Despite the emotions often involved in divorce, it is in the best interests of both spouses to work out an agreement and avoid divorce litigation. Settlement affords more control than going to court, where the final decision lies with a judge.
It can also allow a couple to resolve their case quickly and more affordably. If an agreement cannot be reached, however, we vigorously defend our clients’ interests in court to ensure a fair divorce settlement. The Law Offices of Korol & Velen often recommends mediation with a neutral third party to work out disagreements, particularly when children are involved.
We advise clients on legal strategies and recommendations for workable, out-of-court, custody and visitation agreements. We stand by our clients throughout the process of divorce and refer a network of trusted family counselors to help them when needed. No matter the specific concerns you have, we can assist with every aspect of divorce.
How To File for Divorce in California
Filing for divorce in California follows a clear legal process, even when spouses are cooperative. Because California is a no-fault state, the focus is on resolving financial, custody, and procedural issues rather than proving wrongdoing. Below is a streamlined overview of each stage to help you understand what to expect.
Petition for Divorce
The process begins when one spouse files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. California only requires “irreconcilable differences,” so no fault needs to be assigned. Even in an amicable divorce, one spouse must officially file to start the case.
Temporary Orders for Support and Custody
If immediate financial support or parenting schedules are necessary, the filing spouse may request temporary orders. These are usually granted shortly after the petition and remain in effect until the case is resolved. Filing these requests early can prevent delays.
If the party seeking the temporary order is the same party who is filing the petition, it’s advised that they file both the divorce petition and the temporary order at the same time.
Proof of Service and Response
When a party files for divorce, they also need to file proof of service of process. This document proves that a copy of the divorce petition was given to the other party. After service, the responding spouse files a Response, indicating agreement or disagreement on key issues such as:
- Property and debt division
- Child custody and visitation
- Child or spousal support
Negotiation
If spouses do not fully agree, they must work toward a settlement. Mediation is often encouraged because it:
- Reduces time and legal costs
- Helps resolve custody, support, and property issues
- Keeps control of decisions in the hands of the spouses rather than the court
Any issues not resolved in mediation proceed to court for a judge to decide.
Order of Dissolution
Once all terms are settled, attorneys prepare an Order of Dissolution. This final document outlines:
- How property and debts are divided – The order details the division of assets and liabilities between former spouses.
- Child custody and visitation schedule – It outlines where children will live and the arrangements for parenting time.
- Required support payments – Any obligations for spousal or child support are included.
- Other relevant agreements – Any additional issues agreed upon by both parties are documented
If the Order of Dissolution complies with legal requirements and both parties entered into it knowingly and willingly and can attest to it, then the judge approves it.
After the Divorce Is Final
The divorce decree becomes a binding court order. If one spouse violates its terms, the other may pursue legal enforcement. Our Los Angeles divorce attorneys can review your decree and guide you through any post-judgment concerns.
Understanding Divorce Timelines and Waiting Periods in Los Angeles
California law imposes a mandatory six-month waiting period from the date the respondent is served with divorce papers before the court can finalize a dissolution of marriage.
Several factors can influence the timeline for a divorce in Los Angeles:
- Whether the divorce is contested or uncontested: An uncontested case usually resolves more quickly.
- Court scheduling and processing times: The Los Angeles Superior Court may have varying timeframes depending on demand or complexity.
- Timely cooperation and document completion: Delays may occur if forms, disclosures, or responses are not promptly filed.
No matter the complexity of your situation, our Los Angeles divorce attorneys are available to help you stay informed about next steps and expected timeframes as your divorce proceeds.
How Much Does a Divorce Cost in California?
While the fees associated with your divorce will vary greatly depending on whether your case is contested or uncontested, the filing fees will remain the same
Once you file for divorce at your local court, the fee is generally $435. If the respondent decides to file a response, then he or she must also pay the filing fee. Those who cannot afford this fee may apply for a waiver.
Do You Need a Lawyer to File for Divorce in California?
No law in California requires that you retain legal representation upon filing for divorce. However, if you do hire an attorney, there are several unique benefits in doing so:
- You can focus on your life and emotions: Divorce proceedings can become long and complex; we take that burden off your shoulders so you can process the events happening around you.
- You can rely on us: The outcome of your divorce can have lifelong implications; having an attorney prioritize your best interests while steering you down the right path is critical to your case.
- Hidden assets: It's not uncommon for spouses to hide assets if they know a divorce is coming. An experienced lawyer can help uncover these so that your future is protected.
- Children's well-being: If you and your divorcing spouse have children together, your visitation or custody rights may be at risk. We tailor a plan to meet your needs so that your parenting agreement is not in jeopardy.
What Makes Our LA Divorce Law Firm Qualified to Help You?
Representing clients throughout the area, one of our lead lawyers is a board-certified family law specialist. Our firm handles all aspects of divorces in California, including legal separation and dissolution of marriage, property settlements, child custody and visitation arrangements, as well as child support and spousal support issues.
Our experienced LA divorce attorneys want to help you protect your rights and avoid common divorce mistakes. For detailed information about California divorce law and how to get a divorce, call our firm today. Whether you are considering divorce, have been served, or need guidance on where to file divorce papers in Los Angeles, we offer initial consultations.
We can help guide you through this process. Call (818) 962-4669 or contact us online today to consult with an experienced Los Angeles divorce attorney.
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