Get clear answers to common questions about divorce, custody, support, and family law in Riverside County. The Law Office of Viktoriya S. Kurtzer provides straightforward guidance so you can better understand your options and take the next step with confidence.
In California, a divorce takes at least six months to complete. While the court cannot terminate marital status for at least six months, this does not mean that other agreements cannot be reached and filed prior to the six-month mark. In many cases, it takes longer depending on issues such as custody, support, property division, and whether the parties are able to reach agreements or a trial is necessary.
California courts decide custody based on the child’s best interests. That can include the child’s health, safety, welfare, stability, each parent’s ability to care for the child, and any history of family violence or substance abuse. The best interest standard is broad, and many judges vary in how this standard is applied.
Yes. If circumstances have changed, a parent can ask the court to change custody, visitation, or child support orders after judgment. Parents can also submit an agreement for the judge to sign instead of litigating the issue.
California is a community property state, which generally means that assets, property, and debts acquired from the date of marriage until the date of separation are considered shared and must be divided equally as part of the divorce, while separate property stays with the spouse who owns it. There are exceptions to these general rules, and a skilled attorney will be able to identify any nuance that may apply to your case.
It is often helpful to bring any court papers, existing orders, financial information, a timeline of important events, and questions you want to discuss. If children are involved, details about the current parenting schedule and any urgent concerns can also help make the consultation more productive.