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Physical Custody vs. Legal Custody: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to child custody, the legal jargon can be overwhelming—especially during an already emotional time. One of the most common questions parents ask is: "What’s the difference between physical custody and legal custody?" Understanding the distinction is essential because each type of custody determines different aspects of a child’s care and upbringing.

What is a Postnuptial Agreement?

Marriage is a beautiful union, but it also comes with legal and financial considerations. While prenuptial agreements are commonly discussed before marriage, many couples are unaware of the option to create a postnuptial agreement after they have already tied the knot. So, what exactly is a postnuptial agreement, and why might a couple consider one?

How Common Are Prenuptial Agreements?

Prenuptial agreements (or "prenups") have long been associated with high-profile celebrities and wealthy individuals, but their prevalence is growing among people of all backgrounds. As societal norms evolve and conversations around financial transparency, protection, and fairness become more mainstream, many couples are increasingly open to discussing prenuptial agreements before they tie the knot. But just how common are they? Let’s dive into the numbers and explore the factors contributing to this growing trend.

The Pros of a Collaborative Divorce: A Path to Amicable Separation

Divorce is never easy, but it doesn't have to be contentious or destructive. One approach gaining popularity among couples seeking a more peaceful resolution is collaborative divorce. Unlike traditional litigation, where a judge decides the outcome, collaborative divorce offers a structured environment for negotiation and cooperation, allowing both parties to work together toward mutually agreeable solutions.

The Importance of Getting a Second Opinion in Family Law Cases

Getting a second opinion in family law cases is crucial for several reasons, especially considering the emotional, financial, and legal stakes involved. Each attorney may approach a family law case—whether it involves divorce, child custody, or property division—differently. A second opinion can provide a fresh perspective on how to approach your case, suggest different strategies, or uncover legal avenues that the first attorney may not have considered.

Are All Prenuptial Agreements Enforceable?

Prenuptial agreements, or prenups, have long been considered a practical tool for couples to manage their financial affairs before tying the knot. These agreements can provide clarity and security, outlining the division of assets and responsibilities in the event of a divorce. However, not all prenuptial agreements are automatically enforceable. Several factors can influence their validity. In this blog post, we'll explore what makes a prenuptial agreement enforceable and the common pitfalls that can render them invalid.

Understanding the Difference Between Legal Separation and Divorce in California

Navigating the complexities of a marital breakdown can be an emotionally and legally challenging process. If you're in California and facing this difficult decision, it's essential to understand the differences between legal separation and divorce. Both options have distinct implications and can affect various aspects of your life, from financial matters to your living situation.

Qualifications for Modifications in a Divorce

Modifications in a divorce decree typically require meeting certain qualifications and adhering to legal procedures, which can vary by jurisdiction. Common reasons for seeking modifications include changes in financial circumstances, the needs of the child, or significant life events. Here are the general qualifications and steps required for modifications in a divorce.

Hiring an Attorney for Property Division in a Divorce 

Hiring a property division attorney in Los Angeles in a divorce can provide several significant benefits, ensuring that the process is fair, legally sound, and less stressful. Here are some key reasons why it's advisable to seek legal representation.

Valuing Cryptocurrency, NFTs, and Other Digital Assets in Divorce: An Analysis for California Family Law Practitioners

Ariel Leichter-Maroko, CFLS

Navigating the Holidays Through Divorce: A Guide to Finding Peace and Joy

The holiday season is often portrayed as a time of warmth, joy, and togetherness. However, for those navigating the challenging waters of divorce, this time of year can be particularly difficult. The juxtaposition of festive cheer and personal upheaval can intensify emotions and create a sense of isolation. In this blog, we will explore some strategies for dealing with divorce during the holidays and finding moments of peace and joy amidst the turbulence.

Not All Divorce Cases Go to Trial: A Closer Look at Alternative Resolutions

When we think of divorce, many of us envision a dramatic courtroom scene, with lawyers battling it out to secure the best outcome for their respective clients. While this portrayal certainly captures the essence of some divorce cases, it's essential to remember that not all divorces end up in a trial. In fact, many couples choose alternative dispute resolution methods to settle their differences amicably.

Understanding Parental Alienation in Divorce: Its Impact and How to Address It

Divorce can be a challenging and emotionally charged process for all parties involved, but when children are in the picture, the complexities multiply. One significant issue that can arise during divorce proceedings is parental alienation. Parental alienation is a phenomenon that can have a lasting and detrimental impact on children and the parent who is targeted. 

What is Legal Separation in California? Understanding the Basics

In California, legal separation is a legal process that allows married couples to live apart while maintaining their marital status. Unlike divorce, legal separation doesn't terminate the marriage; instead, it addresses various issues similar to a divorce, such as division of assets, child custody, and support arrangements.

Who Is Responsible for Debt After Divorce?

Divorce is a complex and emotionally challenging process that involves the dissolution of a marriage. Among the numerous considerations during divorce, financial matters often take center stage. One crucial aspect that couples must address is the division of debt accumulated during their marriage. Determining who is responsible for the debt after divorce can be a contentious issue, but understanding the underlying principles can help navigate this often-confusing terrain.

The 5 Benefits of Divorce Mediation

Divorce is often a painful and difficult process, both emotionally and financially. Couples who decide to end their marriage often face complex legal and financial issues, and traditional court proceedings can be time-consuming, stressful, and expensive. Fortunately, there is an alternative to traditional litigation that can help couples reach a more amicable and cost-effective resolution to their divorce: divorce mediation.

Tips For Talking to Your Children About Divorce 

Divorce is a difficult and emotional experience for everyone involved, especially children. As a parent, it can be challenging to know how to talk to your children about the divorce, as you want to communicate effectively while also being mindful of their emotions. Here are some tips for talking to your children about divorce.

Why You Shouldn't Rely Solely on Google During a Divorce Case

Divorce can be an extremely stressful and emotional time, and it's natural to want to turn to the internet for guidance and support. However, relying solely on Google and other online resources during a divorce case can be risky and potentially harmful to your case. Here are some reasons why you shouldn't rely on Google during a divorce case.

Divorce After a Marital Affair

There are a variety of reasons that may lead to a divorce. One of the many reasons that lead to a divorce is an affair. At LLM Family Law, our team knows and understands just how contentious a divorce can be that was due to an affair. It is no secret that emotions can run extremely highly, resulting in a lot of anger, sadness, anxiety, and many other negative feelings and hardships.

The Benefits of a Prenuptial Agreement

When two people enter a marriage, they go into it believing that their union will last forever. And when planning your wedding, the last thing you are thinking about is divorce. As a couple who is planning on getting married, you are hopeful that your marriage will last a lifetime and generally, you’d like to avoid discussion of “what if.” But the reality is that some marriages do not last forever. This is why prenuptial agreements are so important.

Dividing Rental Properties in a Divorce

No one goes into a marriage with the thought of getting a divorce but unfortunately, some marriages do end up in a divorce due to a myriad of reasons. Every state has their own requirements and procedure for the divorce process. If you are facing divorce, then you may have many questions surrounding the process, as well as the requirements and other circumstances that you will need to go through. Many clients have questions regarding the division of property, specifically rental properties and how they will be divided in a community property state, such as California.

Do All Divorce Cases Go to Court?

A large percentage of divorce cases settle before ever reaching a trial. This is done when one of the spouses accepts a settlement offering or the case is settled in mediation. However, in some cases, the spouses are unable to reach an agreement on contentious issues like child support, child custody, property division, alimony, and others and will need to go to court for a judge to decide on these issues.

Steps to Finding the Best California Divorce Lawyer

If you have made the decision to file for divorce, the next step is finding a reliable divorce lawyer. Divorces are never easy but it is important that you do everything to protect your best interests and in order to do so, you must take the necessary steps in choosing a lawyer who can help you navigate through this difficult time.

How Substance Abuse Can Impact Child Custody in California

Determining child custody is often one of the biggest issues when it comes to divorce if there are minor children involved. One of the many determining factors considered is whether a parent has substance abuse problems. Substance abuse involving drugs or alcohol can certainly impact a child custody matter.

What is an Uncontested Divorce in California?

There are generally two different types of divorces in California, which are contested and uncontested. An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses agree on every element of the divorce. As a result, there is no need for a judge or a trial. An uncontested divorce in California is much less expensive and quicker than a traditional contested divorce. However, there are still important requirements that must be met and it is still in your best interest to seek legal guidance from a trusted divorce lawyer in Los Angeles no matter what the circumstances of your divorce are.

Common Reasons For Child Support Modification

Child support modifications are not uncommon after a divorce. This is because even though a divorce may have been finalized, the lives of each parent and child are ever changing. Therefore, our team is here if you need legal help regarding a child support modification. However, in order to move forward with a modification in child support, there are stringent laws that must be followed and the parent seeking modification must show proof to the court that there has been an admissible or significant change since the initial child support order was established.

Do I Need a Divorce Lawyer?

If you and your spouse are facing divorce, you have probably thought about whether or not you need a divorce lawyer. Once you and your spouse have agreed on getting divorce, then the next step to take is determining how to go about it. This blog can help you get a better understanding on whether you need a divorce lawyer or not and how one can benefit you.

Are Hidden Assets Common in Divorce Cases?

Hidden assets in divorce cases are more common than people think--especially in high value divorces. Of course, no one wants to believe that their former spouse would deceive them in this way, but unfortunately, it is a common problem in divorce cases. If you are concerned that your former spouse is hiding assets, then it is imperative that you contact a skilled divorce lawyer so our team can help protect your best interests and do everything possible to ensure that you get the full and fair settlement that you deserve.

What is Divorce Mediation?

Even in a divorce, the process does not always have to result in a huge fight. For many couples, divorce mediation is an ideal alternative as opposed to battling it out in court. A divorce mediation involves you and your spouse, along with a trained and neutral mediator who is there to help you resolve your divorce.

Difference Between Physical Custody and Legal Custody 

When it comes to divorce, there are many important decisions to be made. Child custody is certainly one of the most contentious and important matters that must be decided on. In this blog, we discuss the main differences between physical custody and legal custody in California.