What are the grounds for divorce in California? California recognizes only two legal grounds for divorce under Family Code § 2310: (1) Irreconcilable Differences and (2) Permanent Legal Incapacity. California is a no-fault divorce state, meaning you do not have to prove wrongdoing, infidelity, or misconduct to end your marriage. If one
Marital Debt & Divorce: Who is Responsible for Credit Cards and Loans?
How is debt divided in a California divorce? In California, most debts incurred during the marriage are considered community debt and are generally divided equally (50/50) between spouses under Family Code § 2550. Courts divide the “Net Community Estate,” meaning all community assets minus all community debts. However, the specific allocation of
The 2026 California Joint Petition: A Smarter Way to File for Divorce Together
Can my spouse and I file for divorce together in 2026? Yes. Beginning in 2026, California law allows many spouses to file a Joint Petition for Dissolution together using Form FL-700. Under SB 1427, this option is no longer limited to “summary” dissolutions and may be available to couples with children, real
Navigating the Sonoma County Family Court: A Step-by-Step Filing Guide
How do I start a divorce in Sonoma County? To start a divorce in Sonoma County, you must file a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the Sonoma County Superior Court at the Civil & Family Law Courthouse, located at 3055 Cleveland Avenue in Santa Rosa, California. The process begins by filing
Dividing Community Property in a Santa Rosa Divorce: What You Need to Know About California’s 50/50 Rule
Fair Division of Assets: Understanding California’s Community Property Laws in a Santa Rosa Divorce For couples in Santa Rosa facing a divorce, one of the most significant and often most stressful tasks is the division of their assets and debts. California is a “community property” state, which means the law assumes all
Legal Separation vs. Divorce: Which Is Right for You?
When a marriage faces challenges, couples in Santa Rosa, CA, often consider legal separation or divorce to address their circumstances. While both options allow you to resolve critical issues like property division, child custody, and spousal support, they have distinct differences that can significantly impact your future. At Conway Law Practice, our
The Role of Mediation in Santa Rosa Divorce Cases: A Path to Amicable Resolutions
Divorce can be an emotionally and financially draining process, but mediation offers a constructive alternative for couples in Santa Rosa, CA. At Conway Law Practice, our experienced mediators help clients navigate disputes with clarity and fairness, fostering agreements that benefit both parties. In this article, we’ll explore the role of mediation in
Can Spousal Support Be Modified in Santa Rosa, CA?
Spousal support, or alimony, is a common concern in Santa Rosa, CA, divorces. But what happens when circumstances change? At Conway Law Practice, we help clients modify spousal support to reflect new realities. Here’s what you need to know about the process and how our family law attorneys can assist. Legal Grounds
How Long Does a Divorce Take in Santa Rosa, CA?
One of the most common questions we hear at Conway Law Practice is, “How long will my divorce take in Santa Rosa, CA?” The timeline varies based on several factors, but understanding the process can help you plan. Our experienced divorce attorneys are here to guide you efficiently through every step. California’s
Choosing the Right Santa Rosa Family Law Attorney
Finding the right Santa Rosa family law attorney can make all the difference in navigating complex legal matters like divorce, child custody, or spousal support. At Conway Law Practice, we understand the emotional and legal challenges you face. Here’s what to look for when choosing a family law attorney in Santa Rosa,
