Community Versus Separate Property
You may already know that California is a community property state. This means that marriage or registration of a domestic partnership places two people into a single “community.” Property and debt acquired during the marriage or partnership becomes community property or community debt. In a California divorce, the court is required to divide the community estate in equal shares between the spouses. On the other hand, once the court determines that an asset is separate, it loses the power to divide it.
Get Quality Legal Advice As You Prepare For Property Division
Things become complicated when separate property is mixed with community property, and knowledgeable counsel is needed to help characterize the assets as separate or community. From offices in Antioch and Moraga, the Law Offices of David M. Lederman is a valuable resource for individuals approaching divorce or dissolution of a domestic partnership. Call 925-522-8889 or email us to schedule a consultation.
What Is Community Property?
Community property is the earnings of each spouse or partner during the marriage/partnership. Generally, the courts look at the source of the money that was used to make a purchase. If you used savings acquired over the course of a marriage to buy a second home or vacation property, this would be community property. Also, if an asset is purchased during the marriage, it is likely presumed to be community property. Similarly, debts incurred during a marriage/partnership are also community obligations. This is true even if you had no idea that your spouse or partner took out a credit card and charged large sums.
Separate Property and the Importance of the Separation Date
Separate property is what you owned prior to the marriage. During your marriage or partnership, inheritances and gifts made to one spouse are separate as well. Rents and profits earned on separate property generally keep this characterization. Income earned and debts incurred after the date of separation are also characterized separate. Determining the date of separation can become a major issue. This involves more than solely the intent to end a relationship. At the Law Offices of David M. Lederman, we have presented on this specific issue. We have closely followed developments in California case law and legislation and know how to make the best possible argument in your case. Some property may start out as separate but become commingled and take on a mixed character. Complex property division often includes tracing to determine how much of the asset is separate, including appreciation. This requires the assistance of an experienced attorney. Discuss your property division problems with one of our experienced lawyers. Schedule an appointment at our Antioch or Moraga office online, or call 925-522-8889.
If one spouse has sacrificed a career to allow the other spouse to advance in a career, this may result in a spousal support order. These can be highly complex and contentious cases. Our firm has experience in this area of the law and will work to protect your rights and interests.
Once it has been awarded, the level of spousal support may change if a substantial change in circumstances has occurred. In this situation, our firm can go to court to seek a modification in spousal support.
Whether you're seeking temporary or long-term support, our skilled attorneys will fight for your rights and interests. We understand the complexities of spousal support cases, especially when career sacrifices are involved. We can evaluate your unique circumstances and guide you towards the best decision for your future. Don't let your spousal support be left to chance - contact us today and let us use the law to obtain the appropriate support level for you. Your financial security is our priority. We can help you obtain a fair spousal support award.
Family Law Specialists Dedicated to Helping You Navigate the Challenges of Divorce
Contact The Law Offices of David M. Lederman for Help Navigating Family Law Issues
Divorce and family law issues can be complex and stressful, which is why having strong representation is important. It is crucial to contact an experienced family law firm at the first sign of a family law dispute. The sooner we start working on your case, the sooner you can move on with your life. Call 925-522-8889 or send us a message to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced lawyers.
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