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Filing for Divorce in San Diego

Skilled Representation for Contested & Uncontested Divorces

Getting divorced in San Diego, CA? When you are facing the end of your marriage, it can be a stressful and sometimes painful experience. With 35+ years of experience, Gordon D. Cruse, APLC can help you get through one of the toughest moments of your life with confidence and dignity.

Our team realizes that every divorce case is different and that you deal with your own unique matters. When we take on a new case, our firm sets out to use our skill and experience to help you resolve the issues you are facing.

Contact us online or call (619) 431-4523 today to learn how we can help you.

Experienced Guidance Through the Divorce Process in San Diego

Divorce is a complex legal process. Our team at Gordon D. Cruse, APLC can help you:

  • Protect your rights and explain what the law means for your case
  • Obtain temporary orders for custody and support, if applicable
  • Valuate and equitably divide marital assets
  • Fill out and file all the divorce paperwork for you
  • Make balanced and objective decisions

From negotiation, mediation, all the way to litigation, we are prepared to guide you through each phase of your case. Our goal is to help you find the most effective solutions possible so you can move forward with your life. Find out how San Diego divorce lawyer can ease the pain of your divorce and provide clarity to complex decisions.

What are the Divorce Requirements in California?

  • Residency: To divorce in California, at least one spouse must be a resident of the state for at least six months. You will need to file for divorce in the county where you reside. If you live in San Diego, you can choose the family court nearest you.
  • Grounds: As a no-fault state, California allows couples to divorce without having to prove fault by simply stating "irreconcilable differences." While fault will usually not play a large role, situations such as abandonment, adultery, or domestic violence can play into many of the court's decisions when awarding property or alimony.

How Long Does a Divorce Take in California?

In California, there is a waiting period of six months from the date your spouse is served with papers before a divorce can be finalized. If you and your spouse settle issues before the six-month waiting period, you will need to submit the settlement to the court and wait until the six-month period is over. Only then will a judge sign the divorce decree. Never assume that you are divorced until you receive a final signed judgment from the court.

The duration of your divorce case varies depending on a variety of factors, such as:

  • How complex your divorce is
  • Whether you have children
  • How quickly the spouses are able to settle on major issues

How Long Does a Contested Divorce Take in California?

In contested divorce cases, it can sometimes take years to resolve issues, especially if litigation is involved. Before turning to litigation, it is important to consider the costs, the possible results, and the added stress involved in divorce litigation. It is recommended that you work with an attorney whose approach and philosophy reflects your own goals and expectations.

How Long Does an Uncontested Divorce Take in California?

Are you and your spouse in agreement regarding your divorce? If so, then you may be able to get a divorce without going to court. Uncontested divorce saves you a lot of time and money since you don't have to pay for nearly as many court fees and attorney fees. Uncontested divorces are also quicker than litigated cases, since you do not have to wait on court schedules or the decisions of a judge.

In order to pursue an uncontested and quick divorce in San Diego, both parties must be in full agreement about every aspect of their divorce, from division of the marital property to child custody, parenting time, child support, and spousal support.

While you do not have to go to court for an uncontested divorce, you still should hire an uncontested divorce lawyer. With an attorney to guide you, you can be certain that no mistakes will be made and that you will be able to get your divorce as quickly and affordably as possible.

Effective Solutions for Complex Divorces in San Diego, CA

Our firm has handled even the most complex and difficult divorce cases, including those involving complicated custody disputes and substantial assets. Whether you are in the middle of a contested or uncontested divorce, you can rely on us to support you and act as a trusted advocate on your behalf. We take the time to review your family's unique situation and to fully understand your needs. Then we prepare tailored solutions to help you achieve your desired outcomes.

We handle a wide range of issues which come up in divorces, such as:

Discuss Your Options in Filing for Divorce in San Diego

Going through a divorce can bring about a number of legal issues and questions. We strive to help you handle everything in a timely and effective manner so as to let you move on with your life. One of the first matters in any divorce is to establish the grounds for the divorce, especially if one party does not agree. If you are looking for reliable legal counsel from a San Diego divorce lawyer you can count on to support you throughout the divorce, our firm is the right choice.

Give us a call today at (619) 431-4523 to make an appointment for a consultation.

What Sets Our Firm Apart?

We Listen to Your Needs & Tailor Our Strategy to Meet Your Specific Goals
  • Our Lawyer Will Personally Handle Your Case
  • Backed By 35+ Years Of Experience
  • We Have Extensive Trial Experience
  • Certified California State Bar Specialist
  • AV Preeminent 2016
  • American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers
  • Best Lawyers Lawyer of the Year 2015
  • Best Lawyers Lawyer of the Year 2017
  • Listed in Best Lawyers 2
  • Listed in Best Lawyers
  • California State Bar
  • The Best Lawyers in America
  • Best Law Firm US News Family Law
  • Bar Register 100th Anniversary
  • Avvo rating 10.0 Superb
  • Avvo Client's Choice Divorce & Separation
  • Avvo
  • AV Rated Preeminent
  • American College of Family Trial Lawyers
  • Best Lawyers
  • Top 50 Attorneys
  • Best Law Firms 2021
  • Law Dragon 2020
  • State Bar of CA
  • Top Attorneys San Diego County 2009

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