Is There Common Law Marriage in California?

Posted by & filed under Divorce, Estate Planning, Legal.

Common law marriage generally refers to a marriage that is considered valid by both partners, but has not been formally registered with a state or church registry, or a formal religious service. It is only available in a limited number of places and is not available in California. Most jurisdictions in which common law marriages… Read more »

What Happens If My Spouse or Partner or I Pay Joint Debts or Expenses after We Separate?

Posted by & filed under Divorce, Financial, Legal, Separation.

When couples decide to separate, it often takes some time to sort out their finances.  Sometimes, they still live together and have a lot of joint expenses.  Even when they are not living together, they may still have joint debts such as credit cards, car and other installment payments, and a mortgage. There are different… Read more »

Why Do You Need An Estate Plan?- Part One

Posted by & filed under Estate Planning, Finances, Legal.

Many people think that if they are not rich, they don’t need an estate plan.  Many more people figure that “things will just work out” when they die.  The vast majority of people don’t like to think about dying.Many people think that if they are not rich, they don’t need an estate plan.  Many more… Read more »

How is the Monthly Amount of Child Support Calculated?

Posted by & filed under Divorce, Finances, Financial, Kids, Legal, Separation.

In California, in the absence of an agreement providing otherwise, child support is calculated by using a “guideline” formula, which takes into consideration the respective incomes of each parent, the percentage of time the child has with each parent, and various other factors that affect an individual’s income or taxes.  This formula is based on… Read more »

What Happens to Spousal Support If the Recipient Decides to Live with a Significant Other?

Posted by & filed under Divorce, Finances, Financial, Separation.

If the recipient of spousal support elects to cohabit with someone with whom he or she is romantically involved, it may affect the recipient’s rights to continue receiving spousal support.   If the recipient of spousal support elects to cohabit with someone with whom he or she is romantically involved, it may affect the recipient’s… Read more »