Los Angeles Divorce Lawyer

Going through a divorce can be one of the most emotionally challenging and legally complex times in your life. Whether your separation is amicable or contested, issues like child custody, spousal support, and division of assets can quickly become overwhelming without experienced legal guidance.

At The Sands Law Group, APLC, we are trusted divorce lawyers in Los Angeles, California, committed to helping families resolve their legal matters with clarity, compassion, and confidence. Our goal is to minimize conflict, protect your interests, and guide you toward the best possible outcome for your future.

With deep experience in California family law, our multilingual legal team offers personalized representation tailored to your unique circumstances. We proudly serve clients in English, Spanish, French, Hebrew, and Arabic, ensuring every family gets the support they need—no matter their background.

Whether you’re facing a high-conflict divorce or seeking a peaceful, uncontested resolution, our attorneys will walk you through every step of the process. We focus on efficient, cost-effective strategies that prioritize your family’s well-being.

📞 Call us today at (213) 788-4412 or contact us online for a confidential consultation with a skilled Los Angeles divorce attorney you can trust.

Which Option Is Right for You and Your Family?

In California, both divorce and legal separation are legal processes that allow spouses to resolve important family law matters—such as custody, support, and property division—but they result in different legal outcomes. Understanding the key differences between these two options can help you make the best decision for your circumstances.

At The Sands Law Group, APLC, our experienced Los Angeles divorce attorneys help clients choose the right path forward, whether that means filing for divorce or pursuing legal separation with specific protections in place.

What Is a Divorce?

A divorce—also known as a dissolution of marriage—is the legal termination of a marital relationship. Once a divorce is finalized in California, the marriage is officially ended, and both spouses are legally single and free to remarry.

During the divorce process, the court will resolve all relevant issues, including:

• Division of marital assets and debts (according to California’s community property laws)
• Spousal support (also known as alimony)
• Child custody and visitation (based on the best interests of the child)
• Child support (calculated using California’s guideline formula)

California also requires a mandatory six-month waiting period from the time the divorce petition is served before the divorce can be finalized. Once complete, the court issues a Judgment of Dissolution, officially ending the legal bond between the parties.

What Is Legal Separation?

Legal separation allows couples to live apart and make legally binding arrangements—without officially ending the marriage. The court can still issue orders related to:

• Division of property and debts
• Spousal support
• Child custody and visitation
• Child support obligations

However, at the end of a legal separation, you are still legally married. This means neither spouse can remarry unless they later pursue a divorce.

Why Choose Legal Separation Over Divorce?

Legal separation may be the better choice for couples who:

• Have religious or cultural reasons for avoiding divorce
• Want to retain certain marital benefits (such as health insurance, military benefits, or tax advantages)
• Are unsure about permanently ending the marriage but want to live apart
• Are pursuing counseling, reconciliation, or a trial separation before deciding on divorce

Legal separation also provides the same level of judicial oversight and protection as a divorce, allowing couples to establish fair financial and parenting arrangements while remaining married in the eyes of the law.

Can a Legal Separation Be Converted to Divorce in California?

Yes. If a couple that is legally separated later decides to end the marriage, the legal separation can typically be converted into a divorce by filing a request with the court. This conversion avoids restarting the legal process from scratch and can streamline the transition to full dissolution.

Find the Right Legal Path with The Sands Law Group

Whether you are considering legal separation or divorce, it’s important to understand how each option aligns with your personal, financial, and family goals. At The Sands Law Group, APLC, our compassionate and experienced family law attorneys in Los Angeles are here to help you make informed decisions and protect your best interests every step of the way.

When filing for divorce in Los Angeles, one of the first and most important distinctions to understand is whether your case will be contested or uncontested. This classification can significantly affect the timeline, cost, and emotional impact of the divorce process.

Uncontested Divorces in California

An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses agree on all major issues, including:

• Property and asset division
• Spousal support (alimony)
• Child custody and visitation
• Child support

Uncontested divorces tend to be faster, less expensive, and less stressful than contested cases. With the help of an experienced Los Angeles divorce attorney, even minor disagreements can often be resolved through negotiation or mediation, keeping the process amicable and cooperative.

Contested Divorces in California

A contested divorce happens when spouses cannot agree on one or more key issues. These cases may involve:

• Disputes over child custody or visitation
• Disagreements about the value or division of marital property
• Conflicts over spousal support
• Allegations of misconduct (though California is a no-fault state, certain issues may still influence the outcome)

Contested divorces typically require court hearings, formal discovery, and sometimes a trial before a judge. These cases can be time-consuming and emotionally draining, but they are sometimes necessary to ensure your rights and interests are fully protected.

At The Sands Law Group, APLC, our divorce lawyers in Los Angeles are experienced in handling both contested and uncontested divorces. We guide you through each step, working toward the most favorable and efficient resolution possible.

Divorce vs. Dissolution of Marriage in California

Understanding the Legal Terminology and Process.

When researching how to legally end a marriage in California, you may come across two commonly used terms: “divorce” and “dissolution of marriage.” In California family law, these terms are legally interchangeable and refer to the same court process used to terminate a marital relationship.

Both divorce and dissolution of marriage involve a formal legal proceeding that results in the end of the legal bond between spouses. While the terminology may differ depending on who is using it—courts often use “dissolution,” while the public commonly refers to “divorce”—the legal outcome and process are the same.

What Happens During a Divorce (or Dissolution of Marriage) in California?

Whether you call it a divorce or dissolution, the process in California involves several key legal steps:

Filing a Petition for Dissolution

The process begins when one spouse (the petitioner) files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage in the Superior Court. This petition outlines the grounds for divorce—typically irreconcilable differences under California’s no-fault divorce laws—and may also request relief related to custody, support, or property division.

No-Fault Divorce Principles

California is a no-fault divorce state, which means that the court does not require either spouse to prove fault, misconduct, or wrongdoing. This simplifies the legal process and helps reduce unnecessary conflict. The sole requirement is that the marriage has broken down beyond repair.

Community Property Division

California follows the community property rule, which presumes that all assets and debts acquired during the marriage are owned equally by both spouses. Unless the couple has a prenuptial agreement or negotiates a different arrangement, the court will generally divide marital property 50/50. However, certain factors—such as separate property claims or financial misconduct—can impact the final distribution.

Child Custody and Child Support

If children are involved, the court will prioritize the best interests of the child when determining legal and physical custody arrangements. Child support is calculated using a statewide formula that considers each parent’s income, parenting time, and the needs of the child. The goal is to ensure that children maintain a consistent standard of living, regardless of which parent they reside with.

Although divorce and dissolution share the same legal framework, no two cases are alike. The unique circumstances of your marriage—such as the length of the relationship, the complexity of your finances, or disputes over parenting—can heavily influence the outcome.

At The Sands Law Group, APLC, our experienced divorce lawyers in Los Angeles provide expert legal guidance to protect your financial future, your parental rights, and your peace of mind. We take the time to understand your goals, craft a personalized strategy, and ensure that every step of your divorce or dissolution is handled with clarity, care, and legal precision.

Important Considerations Before Starting the Divorce Process.

Filing for divorce is a major life decision—one that requires more than just legal paperwork. Before taking that step, it’s important to evaluate your emotional readiness and the long-term implications of dissolving your marriage.

Here are key questions to ask yourself before filing for divorce:

• Have you explored all possible options for reconciliation, such as therapy or counseling?
• Are you making this decision after careful reflection, or is it influenced by temporary conflict or stress?
• Are you emotionally and financially prepared for the challenges that come with the divorce process?

Divorce is not simply a legal procedure—it is a personal transition that can affect every area of your life, from your finances to your family dynamics. Careful planning can help you enter the process with clarity, confidence, and control.

Consult a Los Angeles Divorce Lawyer

Legal Guidance Is Crucial from the Start.

One of the most critical steps in preparing for divorce is speaking with an experienced divorce attorney in Los Angeles. At The Sands Law Group, APLC, our attorneys provide clients with knowledgeable legal advice and a personalized strategy designed to protect their rights and achieve the best possible outcome.

Here’s how a divorce lawyer can help:

• Explain Your Legal Rights and Obligations: California is a community property and no-fault divorce state, which impacts how property is divided and how the divorce proceeds.
• Develop a Strategic Legal Plan: From child custody to spousal support, your lawyer will help create a plan that aligns with your goals and reflects your unique situation.
• Prevent Mistakes and Delays: Having an attorney manage the paperwork, deadlines, and court procedures ensures your case moves forward efficiently and accurately.

By working with a skilled Los Angeles family law attorney, you’re taking the first step toward a smoother, less stressful legal process.

Key Issues to Address Before Divorce

Divorce is more than the end of a marriage—it’s a legal division of your financial life, parental responsibilities, and future obligations. The following are core issues that must be resolved in any California divorce:

• Property Division: As a community property state, California requires that all marital assets and debts be divided equally, unless there is a valid agreement stating otherwise.
• Spousal Support (Alimony): Courts consider several factors when determining alimony, including each spouse’s earning capacity, the standard of living during the marriage, and the duration of the relationship.
• Child Custody and Support: When children are involved, California courts prioritize the best interests of the child. Decisions regarding physical and legal custody, as well as child support, must reflect what will provide the most stable and supportive environment for the child.

A seasoned divorce lawyer from The Sands Law Group can help you address these sensitive issues with precision and care, ensuring your voice is heard both in negotiations and in court.

Filing for Divorce in California

Starting the Legal Process the Right Way.

In California, the legal process begins when one spouse—the petitioner—files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the appropriate family court. California only requires “irreconcilable differences” as grounds for divorce, in keeping with the state’s no-fault divorce laws.

After filing, the petitioner must serve the divorce papers to the other spouse (the respondent), formally notifying them of the proceedings. The respondent then has 30 days to file a response.

Even at this early stage, it’s vital to have legal representation to ensure that all forms are completed properly and that your rights are protected from the outset.

Promoting an amicable divorce

How Cooperation Can Lead to Better Results

While divorce is often associated with conflict, many couples are able to achieve amicable divorces through open communication and mutual respect. If both spouses are willing to work together, they can often resolve disputes more quickly and avoid the emotional and financial costs of litigation.

Starting the conversation with honesty—rather than blind siding your spouse—can set a more cooperative tone. Mediation, collaborative divorce, and settlement conferences are all tools that can lead to fair, peaceful outcomes.

At The Sands Law Group, APLC, we advocate for resolutions that preserve dignity and prioritize the well-being of any children involved. We’re here to support you in creating a peaceful path forward whenever possible.

Finalizing your divorce

What to Expect Before Your Divorce Is Official

Under California law, there is a mandatory six-month waiting period between the date the divorce petition is served and the earliest possible date a divorce can be finalized. During this time, both spouses, along with their attorneys, work to resolve outstanding issues and submit the required documentation to the court.

Once all legal matters are settled and the final Judgment of Dissolution is approved by the court, the divorce is complete, and both parties are legally free to move forward with their lives.

At The Sands Law Group, APLC, we guide clients through every phase of the divorce—from filing to final judgment—ensuring each detail is handled with professionalism and care.

Considering filing for divorce in Los Angeles? Understanding the process and knowing the necessary steps can help you navigate this challenging time with clarity and confidence. In this guide, we will outline eight simple steps to filing for divorce in Los Angeles County.

From serving the initial summons to completing financial disclosure forms and addressing child custody arrangements, we’ll provide you with the essential information you need to initiate and navigate your divorce proceedings effectively. By following these steps, you can approach the divorce process in Los Angeles with a clear roadmap, ensuring that your rights are protected and the process goes as smoothly as possible.

Serve the Summons

Begin the divorce process by serving the necessary legal documents, including the summons, to your spouse.

Complete the Petition (FL-100)

Fill out the required FL-100 form, which officially initiates the divorce proceedings. The FL-100 is crucial as it outlines what the major issues are and what orders you are asking for with your California divorce.

Properly Serve the Papers

Ensure that the divorce papers are properly served to your spouse according to the legal requirements in Los Angeles County.

Respond to the Petition

After receiving the divorce papers, your spouse should respond within the designated timeframe to acknowledge the petition.

Address Temporary Orders

During the divorce process, temporary orders may be issued regarding child custody, visitation, spousal support, or other matters. Be prepared to discuss and negotiate these arrangements.

Establish Child Custody/Visitation Orders

If you have children, it’s crucial to establish child custody and visitation arrangements that prioritize their well-being. Consult with legal professionals if necessary.

Financial Disclosure

Both parties are required to provide accurate financial information and complete the necessary disclosure forms to ensure a fair division of assets and liabilities.

Engage in the Discovery Process

The discovery process involves gathering evidence and information related to the divorce case, including financial records, property valuations, and any relevant documentation.

By following these eight steps, you can navigate the divorce process in California. Remember to consult with a qualified attorney or seek legal advice specific to your situation for personalized guidance.

Why Professional Legal Guidance Makes a Difference

Even in amicable or uncontested divorces, navigating the legal complexities of California’s family law system can be overwhelming. From understanding your legal rights to securing a fair financial outcome, having an experienced Los Angeles divorce lawyer by your side offers critical advantages—both emotionally and strategically.

At The Sands Law Group, APLC, our skilled divorce attorneys provide personalized, results-focused legal support to protect your rights and help you move forward with confidence. Whether your case is straightforward or high-conflict, professional legal representation ensures your interests are protected at every stage.

Key Benefits of Hiring a Los Angeles Divorce Attorney

Protect Your Legal Rights: California family law involves intricate rules related to community property, custody, and support. A knowledgeable attorney ensures you understand your rights—and that they’re not compromised during negotiations or court proceedings.

Experienced Legal Strategy: Every divorce is different. A skilled attorney will evaluate your unique situation and develop a legal strategy that reflects your goals, whether you’re seeking a peaceful resolution or preparing for litigation.

Accurate and Timely Filing of Court Documents: Mistakes or missed deadlines can delay your divorce or jeopardize your case. Your lawyer will handle all required paperwork, from petitions to final judgments, ensuring nothing is overlooked.

Objective and Informed Advice: Divorce can be emotionally draining. An attorney provides clear, rational guidance when it’s needed most—helping you make decisions based on your long-term interests, not temporary emotions.

Fair Division of Assets and Debts: Understanding how community property laws affect your home, business, retirement accounts, and debts is essential. A divorce lawyer will explain your options and work toward a fair and equitable outcome.

Child Custody and Support Guidance: In cases involving children, a lawyer ensures that custody, visitation, and child support arrangements reflect the best interests of the child—while also protecting your parental rights.

Spousal Support (Alimony) Negotiation: Whether you’re requesting or disputing spousal support, an attorney will assess factors such as income, marriage length, and earning potential to advocate for a fair outcome.

Skilled Mediation and Settlement Representation: Many divorces are resolved outside of court through negotiation or mediation. A quality attorney will advocate for you throughout these discussions to reach a mutually agreeable settlement.

Trial-Ready Representation: If your case requires courtroom litigation, your divorce lawyer will represent you confidently in front of a judge—presenting evidence, cross-examining witnesses, and protecting your rights throughout the process.

Whether you’re just beginning to consider divorce or are already facing complex legal challenges, you don’t have to navigate this process alone. At The Sands Law Group, APLC, our experienced and compassionate Los Angeles divorce attorneys are here to guide you with clarity, care, and unwavering support.

We’ve helped individuals and families throughout Southern California resolve even the most difficult divorce matters—efficiently, affordably, and with the personal attention each case deserves. From the first consultation to the final court order, we stand by your side to protect what matters most.

📞 Call us today at (213) 788-4412 or reach out online to schedule a confidential consultation with a dedicated divorce lawyer in Los Angeles, CA.

If you’re considering divorce in Los Angeles County, one of the most common questions we hear is: How long will it take to finalize my divorce? The answer depends on several key factors, but California law sets a minimum timeline all couples must follow.

Under California Family Code, there is a mandatory six-month waiting period from the date your spouse is served with divorce papers before a divorce can be legally finalized. However, this is just the minimum—and many divorces take longer depending on the complexity of the case.

Here’s what can influence the timeline of your divorce:

• Level of Dispute – If both parties agree on major issues like child custody, support, and property division, the divorce may be resolved in as little as six months (uncontested divorce).
• Contested Issues – If disagreements arise and the case goes to trial, the process can extend to 12 months or more, depending on court availability and the complexity of the case.
• Involvement of Children or Complex Assets – Divorces involving minor children, business interests, or high-value property typically take longer due to the need for careful negotiations or court rulings.
• Court Schedules in Los Angeles County – The current backlog or scheduling delays in Los Angeles County family courts can also affect how quickly your case moves forward.

At The Sands Law Group, APLC, our experienced Los Angeles divorce attorneys, led by Thomas Sands, work diligently to streamline the process while protecting your rights and interests. We help you avoid delays, resolve disputes efficiently, and move forward with confidence.

Need a personalized timeline? Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation, and we’ll assess your case and give you a clearer estimate based on your specific circumstances.

The cost of a divorce in Los Angeles County can vary significantly depending on the complexity of your case, the level of conflict between spouses, and whether your divorce is contested or uncontested. While some divorces may cost just a few hundred dollars in filing fees, others involving child custody, property disputes, or litigation can cost tens of thousands of dollars.

In Los Angeles, the base filing fee for a divorce petition is currently around $435, which is among the highest in the nation. This fee applies to both the person filing and the respondent, depending on the case.

Here are some common factors that influence divorce costs in Los Angeles:

• Uncontested vs. Contested Divorce – If you and your spouse agree on all major issues, your divorce can be resolved more quickly and affordably. Contested divorces involving disputes over custody, support, or property require more time and legal intervention, increasing costs.
• Attorney Fees – Costs can also vary based on the experience of your attorney and the services provided. At The Sands Law Group, APLC, we offer affordable legal services and unbundled options to help fit your budget—without sacrificing quality representation.
• Court & Administrative Fees – In addition to filing fees, there may be costs for serving documents, mediation, court motions, and document preparation.
• Complexity of the Case – High-net-worth divorces, business ownership, or complicated custody matters will generally require more resources and time to resolve.

At The Sands Law Group, our lead attorney Thomas Sands believes in transparent pricing and provides a free, confidential consultation to help you understand what your divorce may cost based on your unique situation.

Concerned about affordability? We’ll work with you to create a legal strategy and fee structure that fits your needs—so you can focus on moving forward.

In a California divorce, the general rule is that each spouse pays their own attorney fees, however attorney fees can also be paid from either community property (shared marital funds) or separate property, depending on the financial circumstances of the parties involved.

Under California Family Code §721, either spouse may use community funds—such as a joint checking or savings account—to pay for legal representation. However, any use of community assets must be clearly disclosed to the other party. This ensures transparency and prevents the misuse of marital property during the divorce process.

In some cases, if one spouse has significantly greater financial resources than the other, the court may order that spouse to contribute to or fully cover the other party’s attorney fees. This is especially common in situations where there is a clear disparity in income or access to funds, and one party would otherwise be unable to afford proper legal representation.

At The Sands Law Group, APLC, our Los Angeles divorce attorneys, led by Thomas Sands, help clients understand their rights and obligations when it comes to legal fees. We also provide strategic guidance on how to handle attorney fee requests—whether you’re seeking support or being asked to pay.

Understanding who pays for attorney fees is critical when planning for your divorce. Schedule a free, confidential consultation to learn how these rules may apply to your case in Los Angeles County.