West Los Angeles Divorce Attorney
Divorce can be a daunting and overwhelming process. Ronald K. Ziff is committed to providing smart representation and a practical and sensitive approach to address what is most important: a successful transition for your family and future financial stability.
In California, any dissolution must start with the filing of a petition, which commences a legal action. This does not mean the parties ever need to be in a courtroom. When Mr. Ziff meets with you, he will discuss your options and determine with you how best to proceed. Clients come in at many different stages of the divorce process. Ideally, advance planning, even before first filing in court, can give you the greatest flexibility and the ability to reach your goals. However, at every stage of the process, Mr. Ziff can help you evaluate where you are and how to best get where you want to be.
Dissolution Of Marriage In California
Initial issues: In California, there is a no-fault requirement for marriage dissolution. Dissolution can be granted if the spouses agree or if the court finds there are irreconcilable differences between them. Once the divorce is commenced, there are automatic orders that go into effect that you will need to understand. Mr. Ziff helps his clients understand that from the outset, their action and the actions of their spouses, without guidance, could produce unexpected or unintended outcomes. He helps his clients avoid this.
Fiduciary duties: In California, both during marriage and throughout the divorce process, spouses owe each other the highest duties of good faith and fair dealing (“fiduciary duties”). These include the duty of disclosure and obligations with respect to management and control of community property, occurring as early as separation. Mr. Ziff can help you understand just what that means for you and your spouse.
Protecting your children: Of paramount importance to families with children, and important to access at the outset if possible, is what is best for the children and your goals for them. Mr. Ziff takes a child-centered approach to the practice of law, and helps his clients make the right decisions about how their divorce is handled and how their children are protected.
Whether your case is completely amicable and straightforward; whether you need more assistance and are involved in litigation, mediation or the collaborative process; or whether you are just working it out together, you and your spouse will have to resolve multiple issues before a dissolution can be granted (this is called a judgment). This includes:
- Child custody and visitation/parenting time
- Property division
- Child support
- Spousal support/alimony
- Attorney’s fees
- Fiduciary duties
- Taxes
You may have already made decisions on these issues and be ready to put those together in a legally appropriate manner. Mr. Ziff can help you review any agreements, draft the judgment, or finalize your decisions in a manner that will reflect your choices.