Contested Divorce Attorneys in Fresno 

Going Through a Contested Divorce in Fresno? 

When couples go through the dissolution of their marriage, the next step is to decide how their property and responsibilities will be divided. Due to the importance of this process, many spouses will not back down from what they believe they deserve. When no resolution or agreement is in sight, couples enter what is known as a contested divorce.

At the Arnold Law Group, APC, our Fresno attorneys understand that what our clients want out of their divorce must be respected, and their rights must be upheld.

Ready to Protect Your Future? Contact us today at (559) 900-1263 to schedule your consultation with our experienced contested divorce attorneys.

Your Future Matters to Our Firm

When our lawyers in Fresno accept a contested divorce case, they know that there is so much on the line for you and your family. The livelihood of you, your spouse, and your family might be hanging in the balance, so we approach everything with utmost skill and delicacy.

You know you can trust us to fairly represent you due to our numerous accolades, such as the following:

• 30+ years of combined experience
• Thousands of beneficial resolutions to our cases
• Personally tailored strategies
• Commitment to working closely with you

Working Toward a Settlement

In a contested divorce, both parties may hire divorce attorneys to assist them through the case and fight for their respective positions. As you prepare for trial, you will want to work with a knowledgeable and dedicated attorney who will aggressively fight for your rights.

We can help you through each step of your contested divorce, which includes:

• Divorce petition served to responding spouse
• Responding spouse responds to petition
• Discovery
• Settlement
• Trial
• Post-trial motions
• Appeals

Options Available to You & Your Family

Even if you and your spouse disagree on just one aspect of your divorce, you need to take it seriously and understand your legal options. Every decision or agreement you make could affect the rest of your life, so you need to be aware of any ramifications.

Some matters of your contested divorce our Fresno divorce lawyers can help settle include:

• Child custody
• Child support
• Property division
• Spousal support
• Relocation rights
• Visitation schedules

If you do not necessarily want to go to court to settle your contested divorce, there may be other resolutions available. For instance, our attorneys offer mediation services to inquiring clients. No matter what legal needs you have for your divorce, we can provide them for you. 

Benefits of Hiring an Experienced Contested Divorce Attorney

Going through a contested divorce can be overwhelming. Hiring an experienced attorney helps you navigate the complex legal process and ensures your interests are protected. Here's how:

• Expertise and Knowledge: An experienced attorney understands the intricacies of family law, especially in contested divorces where there is a lot at stake.
• Legal Advice: Your attorney will provide personalized legal guidance, ensuring you make informed decisions throughout the process.
• Protection of Interests: Whether it’s property division, child custody, or spousal support, an attorney will fight for your rights, ensuring a fair resolution.
• Reduction of Stress: A contested divorce often involves emotional and financial strain. Having a skilled attorney can ease some of that burden by handling legal matters on your behalf.

Understanding California Divorce Laws

California has unique divorce laws that can greatly influence the outcome of your contested divorce. Understanding these laws is crucial:

• Community Property: In California, all property acquired during the marriage is generally considered community property, meaning it will be divided equally unless otherwise agreed upon.
• Residency Requirements: To file for divorce in California, at least one spouse must have lived in the state for six months, and in the county for three months.
• Grounds for Divorce: California is a no-fault divorce state, meaning you don’t need to prove wrongdoing. Divorce can be granted based on "irreconcilable differences" or "incurable insanity."

What to Expect During a Contested Divorce Process

A contested divorce involves several stages, each requiring attention to detail. Here's a breakdown of what to expect:

1. Filing the Petition: One spouse files the divorce petition, outlining the issues to be resolved.
2. Response: The other spouse has 30 days to respond, either agreeing or disagreeing with the petition.
3. Discovery: Both parties exchange information about finances, property, and other relevant issues to build their case.
4. Settlement Negotiation: Before trial, both sides will attempt to negotiate a settlement. If successful, the divorce is resolved without going to court.
5. Trial: If settlement fails, the case proceeds to trial, where a judge will make the final decisions.
6. Post-Trial Motions: After the trial, either party may file motions to modify or challenge the judgment.
7. Appeals: If you are dissatisfied with the outcome, an appeal may be possible.

An experienced attorney will guide you through each of these phases, ensuring your case is handled properly.

FAQ: Contested Divorce in Fresno

• What makes a divorce "contested"? A divorce is considered contested when the spouses disagree on one or more issues, such as property division, child custody, or spousal support. This disagreement often leads to court involvement to resolve the disputes.
• How long does a contested divorce take in Fresno? The length of a contested divorce varies depending on the complexity of the case, the number of issues in dispute, and the court's schedule. It can take several months to over a year to reach a resolution.
• Will I need to go to court for a contested divorce? Yes, if an agreement cannot be reached through negotiations or mediation, the case will likely go to trial. A judge will then make the final decisions regarding the contested issues.
• Can I modify the divorce judgment later? In some cases, it may be possible to request modifications to the divorce judgment, such as changes to child custody or spousal support. However, it requires a valid reason, and the court must approve the changes.
• What is the cost of a contested divorce in Fresno? The cost of a contested divorce depends on various factors, including the complexity of the case and the amount of time required by your attorney. It is typically more expensive than an uncontested divorce due to the need for legal proceedings and negotiations.
• Can I represent myself in a contested divorce? While it’s legally possible to represent yourself in a contested divorce (called “pro se” representation), it’s generally not recommended. The legal process is complicated, and an attorney can help protect your rights and navigate the process effectively.

Need Legal Help with Your Divorce? Call (559) 900-1263 now or contact us online for a personalized consultation and experienced guidance.