Divorce Lawyer Near Me in Lodi, CA
Divorce is complicated in virtually every scenario. Even when a Lodi divorce is uncontested, there are specific guidelines and protocols you must adhere to in order for your divorce to be finalized. At Bansmer Law, our Lodi divorce lawyer Erica M. Bansmer has spent the past decade helping hundreds of men and women protect both their assets and the best interests of their children during divorce.
Many people are surprised to learn that their final divorce settlement can vary depending on which Lodi divorce attorney they choose. When you work with an experienced, dedicated lawyer like Erica M. Bansmer, you stand a better chance of protecting what’s rightfully yours in the divorce.
No matter what the details of your marriage are—and even if the other party is a toxic or narcissistic person—Bansmer Law has the resources and knowledge to secure the best possible outcome. As a skilled Lodi divorce lawyer, Erica M. Bansmer offers family law representation in these areas:
- Divorce
- Same-Sex Divorce
- Child Visitation
- Child Support
- Guardianship
- Adoption
- Paternity
- Move Aways
- Spousal Support
- Retirement Issues
- Division of Marital Property
- Contempt
- Sanctions
- Enforcement of an Order
- Violation of an Order
- Attorney Fees
Contested Vs. Uncontested Divorce in Lodi and Why It Matters
In Lodi, there are two types of divorce: contested and uncontested. Understanding the distinctions between each will make it easier to hire the best Lodi divorce lawyer for your case.
Contested Divorce in Lodi, CA
A contested divorce happens when you and your spouse cannot agree on one or more issues. These may include division of assets, child custody, and alimony. In this situation, you will go through a formal legal process, which includes hearings and potentially a trial. You will be responsible for presenting evidence to support your wishes in the divorce.
Most importantly, if you and your spouse cannot agree on specific details during your contested divorce, the court will decide instead.
Uncontested Divorce in Lodi, CA
An uncontested divorce is likely to be less expensive and faster than a contested divorce. In this situation, you and your spouse have a clear, detailed agreement on who gets what and who pays who for alimony or child support. In this scenario, a Lodi divorce lawyer will help you draft the divorce agreement and ensure it covers every relevant detail.
Knowing which type of divorce you will pursue is important because this information can save you money, time, and emotional stress. When you do not have to guess at what type of divorce you will opt for, your lawyer can focus on achieving the ideal outcome for your specific situation.
Financial Considerations in a Lodi, CA Divorce
If you and your spouse agree that a divorce is the best path forward, you still have many details to sort through. Many people choose to hire a divorce lawyer in Lodi, CA when they realize just how impactful a divorce can be to their finances.
The main financial considerations in a Lodi divorce are:
- Assets and debts – In CA, assets and debts are normally considered community property. This means a judge has to approve your division of assets and debts before your divorce is finalized.
- Social Security benefits – These benefits are technically not marital property, but they may factor into child support, alimony, or spousal support payments
- Spousal support – Details like the length of your marriage, each party’s earning potential, health insurance, and current financial need can have major impacts on these payments.
- Child support – Because CA prioritizes the best interests of the child, child support payments can drastically alter the terms of your final divorce settlement.
The best way to protect yourself and your finances during a Lodi divorce is by taking the time to research your options regarding a divorce lawyer near me in Lodi, CA. When you choose Bansmer Law for your divorce proceedings, we strengthen your case by taking the time to document and address all of these financial considerations.
How a Dedicated, Experienced Lodi Divorce Lawyer Can Help
While keeping your divorce ‘simple’ sounds doable on paper, nearly all divorces are very complex in reality. Even if you and your spouse agree on enough details to pursue an uncontested divorce, you still must adhere to many legal protocols and complex guidelines.
When you work with an experienced, knowledgeable Lodi divorce attorney like Erica M. Bansmer, you always know your best interests are being protected. You never have to worry about the next step or missing a court deadline because at Bansmer Law, we are truly by your side throughout the divorce process.
Call (209) 474-2400 now to schedule your consultation.
Lodi Divorce Attorney FAQs
What are the legal grounds for divorce in Lodi, CA?
In Lodi, CA, there are two legal grounds for divorce:
- Irreconcilable differences – You do not have to prove this or even get your spouse to agree in order to utilize this option. In this scenario, you are saying your marriage cannot be saved.
- Incurable insanity – This is a highly uncommon, but legally valid option. You do have to prove this issue if you choose it as your grounds for divorce. As part of the process, your spouse will need to undergo a medical assessment.
How do I file for divorce in Lodi, CA?
To file for divorce in Lodi, CA, you must meet certain requirements, file paperwork, and pay fees:
- Either you or your spouse must have lived in CA for the past six months
- You must file specific forms with the court
- You must pay the appropriate fee, which ranges from $435 to $450
- You must legally serve the divorce papers with your spouse
What court handles family and divorce cases in Lodi CA?
In Lodi, California, family and divorce cases are typically handled by the Superior Court of California in San Joaquin County. The family law division of this court deals with matters such as divorce, child custody, child support, and other related family law issues. The courthouse that serves Lodi is the Stockton Courthouse. If you need to address any family or divorce-related legal matters, this would be the appropriate venue to approach.