Nancy J. Bickford

Understanding Domestic Partnerships in California

Understanding Domestic Partnerships in CaliforniaDomestic partnerships have long been alternatives to marriage, but understanding what they are and how to utilize them to their advantage is crucial for anyone considering it. While some people may lack interest in getting married to their significant other, they may still want to gain legal protections and benefits for their relationship. Understanding domestic partnerships in California can help people learn their rights and determine how to avoid contentious issues.

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Protecting Your Inheritance During a California Divorce

Protecting Your Inheritance During a California DivorceGoing through a separation from your spouse can be emotionally challenging. The emotional toll can grow when you realize your finances may take a hit because of your deteriorating relationship. California follows community property laws, meaning both spouses jointly own property acquired during the marriage. When thinking about minimizing the damage, it can be wise to understand how to protect your inheritance during a California divorce.

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When a California Child Custody Agreement Might Need to Change

When a California Child Custody Agreement Might Need to ChangeSometimes, your child custody arrangement needs an update. Whether your circumstances have changed dramatically or your child’s needs have evolved, California law allows individuals to modify their custody arrangements. If you need help modifying your California child custody agreement, it would be wise to contact our family law attorney for extra assistance with your situation.

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Signs Your Spouse Is Hiding Assets During a Divorce

Signs Your Spouse Is Hiding Assets During a DivorceThroughout a divorce, both parties are expected to be transparent and honest about their finances. Dividing assets, debts, and property in an equitable and fair manner requires complete openness. It is an unfortunate reality that some people use the courts to try and hide their valuable assets and possessions. If you are going through a divorce, you should be aware of signs your spouse is hiding assets during a divorce.

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How To Prepare for a Child Custody Evaluation in San Diego

How To Prepare for a Child Custody Evaluation in San DiegoAnyone who is going through a child custody evaluation in California should understand the basic steps of how to prepare for a child custody evaluation in San Diego. Child custody evaluation involves a court-appointed evaluator who speaks with the child, both parents, and possibly other adults who are involved in the child’s life. While a judge is not required to follow the recommendations in the final report, the evaluator’s insights often carry weight in court.

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Common Causes of Contested Divorces

Common Causes of Contested DivorcesOnce the difficult decision to divorce has been made, many spouses look forward to putting the past behind them and moving on with their lives. Before that can happen, of course, the divorce must be finalized. Divorces are either contested or uncontested. Predicting which direction an individual case may go can be difficult, but there are common causes of contested divorces.

One way you go through a contested divorce with favorable outcomes is by finding an experienced and trusted family law firm to work with.

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Tips for Communicating With Your Spouse During a Divorce

Tips for Communicating With Your Spouse During a DivorceThe idea of communicating with your spouse during a divorce may seem challenging, if not impossible, but how you communicate with your soon-to-be ex will shape how easily you speak after the divorce and, more importantly, how well you can co-parent. Your family law attorney can give you advice in this area by covering tips for communicating with your spouse during a divorce.

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How Should I Prepare For Divorce in San Diego?

How Should I Prepare For Divorce in San Diego? As you are preparing for divorce in California, there are several key factors that must be considered before you initiate legal action. Taking the first step towards divorce can be the hardest step, but preparing and understanding your rights and responsibilities can help you feel confident as you move forward in the life change. No matter the circumstances that have led you to pursue divorce, the more information you have, the more empowered you can feel about your choices.

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Is Mediation or Litigation Better for Divorce? 

Is Mediation or Litigation Better for Divorce? If you are looking towards divorce, you may wonder what the differences are between mediation and litigation and which option is likely to be more effective in your case. While there are nuances that influence which choice is recommended for your situation, the first step is understanding each option. It is vital that before you take legal action, you get qualified support and advice so that you can move confidently forward with your decisions.

Working with a local divorce attorney can help you feel confident in your choices as you pursue either mediation or litigation efforts for your divorce. A lawyer will look into the nature of your divorce, your unique goals, and desired outcomes and create an individualized legal plan and strategy that uplifts these details unique to you. Some spouses may first choose to pursue mediation, and if this is unsuccessful, they may finalize the divorce through litigation.

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