If you are thinking about getting divorced, it is easy to get discouraged because the process can seem very overwhelming. You’ve likely heard all sorts of words thrown around like divorce, legal separation, annulment, and others regarding divorce and it’s understandable that you might be confused. The good news is that the experienced family law attorneys at Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP can help you through the process. Keep reading to learn about legal ways to separate from your spouse in California and how Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP can help.
Are legal separation and divorce the same thing?
No, a divorce and a legal separation are not the same things. A divorce legally and formally ends a marriage. A legal separation does not end a marriage. It simply allows two spouses to live apart and issues court orders regarding child support, child custody, and spousal support. For couples that want to end their marriage and live apart, but cannot get divorced for religious or personal reasons, a legal separation might make sense.
Are there other ways to legally separate from your spouse in California?
Yes, there are other ways to legally separate from your spouse in California. This includes annulment and summary dissolution. Annulments can be used to terminate a marriage that was never legal in the first place. This can be used in instances of incestuous or bigamous relationships, as well as those under the age of 18, or marriages that were entered into as a result of fraud or force.
Summary dissolution is a process that legally ends a marriage but is simpler than a typical divorce. This is for couples that have been married for less than five years and that have no children and very little assets or debts. In a summary dissolution, no spousal support orders can be issues and parties will have to agree to property division before filing.
Contact Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP for help separating from your spouse!
Are you looking to separate from your spouse? There are a few options that you can consider, ranging from divorce and legal separation to summary dissolution. The difference between these two is significant so it is important to have a trusted family law attorney involved. At Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP, we have the knowledge and experience to handle your case. With 30 years serving as family law attorneys, you can trust us to steer you in the right direction. Give us a call today at 909-482-1422 to schedule your initial consultation.
To learn more about the reliable and quality family law services that we offer, visit us on the web at Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP.
