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What to Expect from the Divorce Process

Considering Divorce? What Are The First Steps?


Making the decision to end a marriage is one of the toughest you may ever make. From our initial consultation, we will break the process into manageable steps and help you through them in a timely manner. Our goals are to protect your rights and help you achieve your goals as you move forward. Since 1997, the Law Offices of David M. Lederman has helped clients in Contra Costa County and throughout Northern California from our Moraga offices. Our experienced lawyers have established record of success over more than 20 years in both simple and extremely challenging divorce cases. Call 925-522-8889 or email us to discuss your case.

What to Expect From The Divorce Process

From the start to the end, there will be times that emotion and frustration will cloud your decision-making. It can happen to anyone, but having an experienced attorney can ensure that these moments do not translate into costly mistakes. The same basic legal procedures apply in dissolving a marriage or a registered domestic partnership. Initial questions relate to residency. Have you lived in California for six months and Contra Costa County for at least three months? Filing a petition and summons formally starts the process. Some of the next steps may include:

  • Seeking immediate court orders related to temporary child custody, visitation, property or restraining orders
  • Filing a response
  • Attending a voluntary settlement conference to resolve issues and possibly reach a stipulated judgment
  • Proceeding to trial when significant issues cannot be settled

Negotiate And Settle; Mediate, Or Litigate

When issues related to the division of property and assets or custody of children cannot be resolved, a judge will decide them for you. We can often avoid a court trial, but we won’t hesitate to litigate aggressively when it is required to protect your rights.

A Law Firm Protecting Your Interests Regardless of Marital Status

Whether you are married, unmarried, of the same sex or opposite sex, our attorneys can help you develop agreements that establish the rights and responsibilities of each partner. Our goal is to provide our clients with confident, experienced legal counsel along with efficient resolution of their legal issues. The key element of our philosophy that keeps our clients returning to us for their legal needs is always our personal, compassionate customer service. We care about you, your family and your future.

Schedule A Consult

The divorce process takes time. Once you realize marital dissolution is probable, it is best to talk to a lawyer sooner rather than later. We are ready to assist you in the initial stages and through all phases of your case. Call 925-522-8889 to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced family law attorneys to begin the dialogue. You can also reach us online.

We Offer Skilled Advocacy to Protect Your Interests

Secure the protection of your high net worth assets during divorce. Don’t risk your financial future with the wrong lawyer. David M. Lederman has over two decades of experience handling complex divorce cases for high net worth individuals. We understand the intricacies of asset division and can identify hidden assets and improper property characterization. With our network of industry experts, including real estate professionals, appraisers, and forensic accountants, we’ll ensure your assets are accurately valued and fairly divided. Don’t settle for anything less than the best outcome.

Our experienced family law attorneys can discuss potential issues after learning more about your unique case. Call 925-522-8889 or reach out to us online to schedule a consultation

Contact Our Experienced Family Lawyers For Help With this Difficult Transition

At the Law Offices of David M. Lederman, we care about your future. We want to help you make a successful transition to life after divorce by providing you with the answers and solutions you need to navigate the complex landscape of divorce. We will protect your interests to ensure you get the best outcome possible, whether you need help related to custody, visitation, spousal support, domestic violence, or more. Do not delay. Contact one of our divorce attorneys in Moraga by calling 925-522-8889 today.

At the Law Offices of David M. Lederman, our divorce attorneys care about your future. We want to help you make a successful transition to life after divorce by providing you with the answers and solutions you need to navigate the complex landscape of divorce. We will protect your interests to ensure you get the best outcome possible, whether you need help related to custody, visitation, spousal support, domestic violence, or more. Do not delay. Contact one of our divorce attorneys in Moraga or Antioch.

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Family Law Attorneys Dedicated to Helping You Navigate the Challenges of Divorce

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