Divorce, Legal Separation and Annulment
When married couples are no longer able to live together, they usually will seek a divorce. In some cases, though, they may choose to seek a legal separation for tax purposes, life or health insurance concerns or due to religious beliefs. In some instances, an annulment of the marriage may be an option (thus placing you back in a position as if the marriage never took place). Regardless of which path you choose, there are several potentially complex legal issues that need to be addressed and it is important that you have an experienced family law attorney who can protect your interests.
At the Fullerton, California based Law Office of Jeffrey D. Stearman, I have over 25 years of experience as an lawyer in Southern California. I have helped clients throughout the area to resolve complicated family law matters. I work tirelessly on my clients' behalf to obtain the most favorable outcome possible.
Divorce vs. Legal Separation
Divorce and legal separation have many of the same effects on a marriage with one big difference. Both require an agreement or court order for things like child support, spousal support or alimony, child custody, visitation and property division. The only real difference is that while legally separated, neither spouse is able to remarry. There is also a residency requirement in California to file for divorce. You must have lived in California for six months and your county of residence for three months before you can file for divorce in that county. This same jurisdictional requirement does not apply to filing for a legal separation
Annulments
An annulment can be sought when the validity of a marriage comes into question, as opposed to a divorce, which seeks to end a valid marriage. Determining the validity of a marriage can become a very complex legal matter. A marriage may be deemed invalid in cases of fraud, forced marriage, bigamy, incest and many other issues. An annulment, if granted, treats the marriage as if it never happened.
Call for a Free Consultation
Contact my office today to personally discuss your divorce, legal separation or annulment questions. You can call 866-907-6958 for a FREE initial phone consultation or send me an email. I am available by phone during regular business hours and regularly check email evenings and weekends.
