How to Prepare for a Divorce Consultation Like a Pro | Los Angeles Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

How to Prepare for a Divorce Consultation Like a Pro

Facing a divorce consultation can feel overwhelming. You might walk in feeling lost, unsure of what documents to bring or what questions to ask. But here’s the good news: preparation is your secret weapon. By getting ready ahead of time, you not only save yourself time and stress but also create a more productive and focused consultation experience. Whether you’re just starting your divorce journey or are already deep into the process, knowing exactly how to prepare will empower you to take control and move forward with confidence.

In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to prepare for your divorce consultation — from what information to gather, how to organize it efficiently, to what to expect during your meeting. Drawing on years of experience helping clients at Divorce661, I’ll share tips that have helped many navigate their consultations smoothly and set the stage for an amicable, clear path forward.

Why Preparation Makes All the Difference

Walking into a consultation unprepared can leave you feeling scattered and overwhelmed, wasting valuable time trying to find documents or explain your situation. On the other hand, a well-prepared client can easily guide the conversation, ensuring every minute counts. Preparation isn’t just about bringing a stack of papers—it’s about understanding your own situation clearly and being able to communicate it effectively.

When you come prepared, you reduce stress and confusion, which in turn helps you make better decisions. You also allow your attorney or consultant to provide advice tailored to your unique circumstances. This clarity can make the difference between a consultation that feels like a maze and one that feels like a clear roadmap.

Start with the Basics: What Information You Need

One of the most common misconceptions is that you need to bring every document related to your marriage or finances. While having documents handy can be helpful, the real key is to have a clear overview of the essentials. Here’s what you should focus on:

  • Marriage and Separation Dates: Knowing when you got married and when you separated provides a timeline framework for your case.
  • Children: Details about any children involved, including their ages and custody arrangements (if any), are crucial.
  • Assets and Debts: A summary of your property, bank accounts, retirement funds, vehicles, and any debts helps establish the financial picture.

Instead of bringing piles of paperwork, consider compiling this information into a concise format. This approach keeps things simple and focused, helping your consultant quickly understand your situation without getting bogged down in details.

The Power of a One-Page Summary

One of the most effective tools I recommend to clients is creating a one-page summary of your situation. This document acts as a snapshot of your case and can include:

  • A timeline of key events (marriage date, separation date, important milestones)
  • Details about your property (home, vehicles, investments)
  • A brief overview of income sources for both parties
  • Current custody or parenting arrangements, if applicable
  • Areas where you and your spouse agree and where you anticipate conflict

This simple document can save you and your consultant a lot of time and money. For one client in Los Angeles, bringing a one-page summary allowed us to develop a full game plan in under 15 minutes. It was an efficient way to focus the consultation and immediately start working towards solutions.

Identify Areas of Agreement and Potential Conflict

Before your consultation, take some time to honestly assess where you and your spouse are on the same page and where disagreements might arise. This insight is invaluable because it helps determine the complexity of your case and shapes the approach your consultant will recommend.

For example, if you and your spouse agree on child custody but disagree on property division, the consultation can focus on resolving the financial aspects rather than rehashing custody issues. Knowing these areas ahead of time also helps you explore options such as negotiation, mediation, or flat-fee amicable processes.

Why Understanding Your Situation Helps Tailor Solutions

Every divorce case is unique. By understanding your specific circumstances, you enable your consultant to offer tailored advice that fits your needs rather than a one-size-fits-all solution. Whether it’s suggesting a simple flat-fee divorce service for an amicable split or outlining a more detailed mediation process for complex disputes, preparation makes your path forward clearer and more manageable.

What to Expect During a Divorce661 Consultation

At Divorce661, we pride ourselves on making consultations casual, clear, and solution-focused. Here’s what you can expect when you schedule your free consultation with us:

  • Guidance Through the Process: We walk you through the divorce process step-by-step, explaining what happens next and what you can anticipate along the way.
  • Clear Discussion of Costs and Expectations: No surprises here. We explain our flat-fee services upfront so you know exactly what to expect financially.
  • A Judgment-Free Zone: Divorce is difficult enough without added stress. Our consultations are designed to be supportive and non-judgmental.
  • Actionable Game Plan: By the end of your consultation, you’ll have a clear understanding of your next steps tailored to your specific situation.

This approach has helped many clients feel more confident and in control as they move forward with their divorces.

Flat-Fee Services and Remote Convenience

One of the biggest advantages of working with Divorce661 is our flat-fee pricing model. Unlike traditional hourly billing, flat fees mean you know your costs upfront—no unexpected bills or surprises. Plus, our 100% remote services let you meet with us from anywhere in California, adding convenience and flexibility to an already stressful time.

Steps to Take Before Your Consultation

To maximize the benefits of your divorce consultation, here’s a checklist to help you prepare:

  1. Gather Basic Information: Collect dates of marriage and separation, details about children, and an overview of assets and debts.
  2. Create Your One-Page Summary: Outline your timeline, property, income, and areas of agreement or conflict.
  3. Reflect on Your Goals: Think about what you want to achieve from the divorce—custody arrangements, property division, or other priorities.
  4. Prepare Questions: Write down any questions or concerns you want to address to ensure you don’t forget anything during the consultation.
  5. Schedule Your Consultation: Visit Divorce661.com to book your free consultation and take the first step toward clarity and peace of mind.

Conclusion: Empower Yourself Through Preparation

Divorce is never easy, but being prepared can make the process feel less intimidating and more manageable. By understanding your situation, organizing your information in a clear summary, and knowing what to expect, you set yourself up for a productive and empowering consultation experience.

At Divorce661, we’re here to guide you through every step with clear, casual, and judgment-free support. Our goal is to help you gain confidence and clarity so you can move forward with peace of mind.

Ready to take control of your divorce consultation? Visit Divorce661.com to schedule your free consultation today and start your journey toward a fresh start.

“One of our L.A. clients brought a simple one-page summary of their situation. In just 15 minutes, we gave them a clear path forward, tailored to their case.” – Tim Blankenship, Divorce661

Have Questions Before Your Divorce Consultation?

Every divorce is unique, and you might have specific concerns or questions. Feel free to reach out via the Divorce661 website or social media channels. We’re here to help you navigate this challenging time with confidence and clarity.

 

Understanding the Divorce Waiting Period in California | California Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

Understanding the Divorce Waiting Period in California

Divorce can be a daunting process, filled with emotional and legal complexities. In California, one of the most critical aspects to understand is the mandatory divorce waiting period. Many people mistakenly believe that their divorce is finalized automatically after six months. However, this is not the case. In this article, we will dive deep into the divorce waiting period in California, how it works, and what you need to do to navigate it smoothly.

What is the Divorce Waiting Period?

In California, the divorce waiting period is a legally mandated timeframe that must pass before a divorce can be finalized. Specifically, your divorce cannot be finalized until at least six months and one day after your spouse has been served with the divorce paperwork. This waiting period applies to all divorces, regardless of whether both parties agree to the terms.

When Does the Clock Start Ticking?

One of the most common misconceptions is when the six-month waiting period actually begins. The clock does not start when you file for divorce; it starts when your spouse is officially served with the divorce papers. This distinction is crucial, as many individuals assume that simply filing initiates the process.

Preparing During the Waiting Period

While you cannot shorten the waiting period, you can take proactive steps to prepare your paperwork ahead of time. This preparation can significantly reduce any delays once the six months are up. It’s essential to gather all necessary documents and ensure that you understand what is required to finalize your divorce.

Submitting Your Final Judgment Package

Once the waiting period has elapsed, you’ll want to submit your final judgment package promptly. If both parties agree on all terms, this process should be straightforward. However, it’s vital to avoid mistakes in your paperwork, as errors can lead to further delays and complications.

Real-Life Example of a Smooth Divorce Process

To illustrate how efficient the process can be, consider a couple we assisted who filed, served, and submitted all paperwork on the same day. Their meticulous preparation allowed them to finalize their divorce exactly six months and one day later without any delays. This example underscores the importance of being organized and proactive.

Understanding the Six-Month Period

Many people mistakenly believe their divorce is final after six months. However, if you do not submit the proper judgment forms, your case can remain open indefinitely. Even uncontested divorces require the full waiting period by law. This means that failing to file all final paperwork correctly can lead to prolonged legal entanglements.

Why Some Divorces Take Longer Than Six Months

Several factors can contribute to delays in finalizing a divorce. Disagreements between spouses, the need for multiple hearings, court availability, or delays in disclosure can all extend the timeline. These complications highlight the importance of clear communication and cooperation between both parties.

Consequences of Not Finalizing Your Divorce on Time

If you don’t finalize your divorce within the designated timeframe, your case may remain open, leading to additional legal complications. It’s essential to be diligent in submitting all required documentation promptly to avoid these issues.

How Divorce661 Can Assist You

At Divorce661, we specialize in handling all divorce paperwork and filings to ensure accuracy and timeliness. Our flat-fee pricing model eliminates the burden of expensive attorney fees, making the process more accessible. Additionally, our 100% remote service allows you to finalize your divorce from the comfort of your home.

Why Choose Divorce661?

  • All Paperwork Handled: We take care of all necessary documentation to ensure nothing is overlooked.
  • Flat-Fee Pricing: Enjoy the benefits of clear, upfront pricing without hidden costs.
  • Remote Services: Finalize your divorce from anywhere, making the process more convenient.
  • Expert Guidance: We help you navigate the waiting period smoothly to finalize your divorce as quickly as legally possible.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the divorce waiting period in California is crucial for anyone considering or going through a divorce. While the six-month waiting period can feel long, being prepared and organized can make the process much smoother. Remember, the clock starts ticking when your spouse is served, not when you file, and submitting your final judgment package promptly is essential to avoid complications.

If you have questions or need assistance with your divorce, don’t hesitate to reach out to Divorce661 for a free consultation. We’re here to help you through every step of the process, ensuring that your divorce is finalized as quickly and efficiently as possible.

 

Understanding Default Prove Up Hearings in California Divorce | Los Angeles Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

Understanding Default Prove Up Hearings in California Divorce

When navigating the complexities of a divorce in California, especially in default cases, understanding the process of a prove up hearing is crucial. This hearing plays a pivotal role in finalizing your divorce when one party does not respond or participate. Let’s break down what a default prove up hearing entails and what you can expect during this critical stage of your divorce.

What is a Default in Divorce?

To start, let’s clarify what a default means in the context of a divorce. A default occurs when one spouse files for divorce and serves the other spouse, who then fails to respond or participate in the proceedings. This scenario is often referred to as a “true default” case. In California, these cases can be particularly tricky, as they require adherence to strict legal procedures.

In a true default situation, the court must ensure that the division of property and any other relevant matters are handled according to California law. This is essential because the non-responding spouse still has rights that must be respected, even if they choose not to engage in the process.

Why is a Prove Up Hearing Necessary?

A prove up hearing is necessary to finalize the divorce in a default case. It serves as a means for the court to review the submitted judgment and ensure that all legal requirements have been met. The court will ask questions to verify that the proposed division of assets, debts, and any requests for spousal support or child support are fair and just.

These hearings can often lead to complications if the documentation is not correctly prepared or if the court has concerns about how assets and debts are divided. In many cases, judgments are rejected due to procedural errors, making the prove up hearing a critical step in the process.

What Happens During a Prove Up Hearing?

So, what can you expect when you attend a prove up hearing? Generally, the process involves a series of questions from the judge aimed at clarifying the details surrounding your divorce settlement. Here’s a breakdown of what typically occurs:

  • The judge will review your submitted judgment documents.
  • You may be asked to testify about your understanding of the proposed terms, including how you arrived at the division of community property.
  • The court will ensure that the non-responding spouse’s rights are protected, meaning the division must be fair and equitable.
  • If there are no minor children involved, the focus will primarily be on the division of assets and debts.

It’s important to prepare for this hearing by ensuring that all your documentation is in order. If you are representing yourself, be ready to clearly articulate your position and the basis for your requests.

Do You Need an Attorney for Your Prove Up Hearing?

This is a common question for individuals preparing for a prove up hearing. While it’s not mandatory to have an attorney, having legal representation can be beneficial, especially if you are uncomfortable speaking in front of the court. An attorney can help you navigate the complexities of the legal process and ensure that your paperwork is correctly filed.

If you have managed your divorce up to this point without legal assistance, you may feel comfortable handling the hearing on your own. The judge will typically guide the process, asking straightforward questions to confirm that everything is in order.

Common Issues Addressed at a Prove Up Hearing

During the hearing, the judge will address various issues related to your divorce. Here are some of the most common topics that may arise:

  • Division of Community Property: The court will want to ensure that all assets and debts are disclosed accurately and divided fairly. This includes verifying whether items are truly community property or separate property.
  • Spousal Support Requests: If you are requesting spousal support, the judge will consider your income and the financial needs of both parties.
  • Child Support and Custody (if applicable): In cases involving children, the court may ask about child support calculations and custody arrangements, even if the other spouse did not respond.

Preparing for Your Prove Up Hearing

Preparation is key to a successful prove up hearing. Here are some steps to take to ensure you are ready:

  • Gather Documentation: Make sure you have all necessary documents, including your proposed judgment, asset and debt disclosures, and any agreements regarding spousal or child support.
  • Practice Your Testimony: If you will be testifying, practice answering potential questions the judge may ask. Keep your answers clear and concise.
  • Understand the Legal Standards: Familiarize yourself with California family law regarding asset division and support obligations to strengthen your case.

What Happens After the Hearing?

After the hearing, the judge has a few options. They may approve your judgment on the spot, take it under consideration, or request further modifications. If the judgment is approved, you will receive documentation confirming the dissolution of your marriage.

If changes are required, the judge will provide specific instructions on what needs to be amended. You may need to resubmit your judgment after making the necessary adjustments. This process can take additional time, so it’s important to be patient and responsive to the court’s requests.

Final Thoughts

Going through a default prove up hearing can be daunting, but understanding the process can significantly ease your anxiety. Whether you choose to represent yourself or seek legal assistance, being prepared will help ensure that everything goes smoothly. Remember, the court’s primary goal is to ensure that all parties are treated fairly, even in default cases.

If you have any questions or need assistance with your divorce process, consider reaching out to a qualified attorney who specializes in family law. They can provide valuable guidance tailored to your specific situation, helping you navigate the complexities of divorce with confidence.

 

Divorce, Divorce, Divorce Is All We Do In Santa Clarita

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

Every day, Day in and day out, we deal with folks facing divorce.  After years of working for the divorce courts in Los Angeles County and Santa Clarita area law firms, our experience continues to grow.  And experience is crucial when it comes to divorce.

Because we speak to so many people every day, we sometimes get a question that we have not had before.  Or a question about divorce that is just slightly different because the person asking has a slightly different scenario.  When this happens, we are able to give specific direction on how to tackle their particular situation because of our previous knowledge.

I am amazed at how much there is to know in this industry.  We have been immersed in the culture of divorce now for several years which allows us to provide our clients with an insight into the divorce process like nobody else.

When you are considering hiring a company to help you through the divorce process you need to make sure to use someone with experience.   Not just someone experienced with filling out the forms, but someone like us who can answer specific questions about the process of divorce as well as court procedure and navigating the court systems.

If we had not worked for the divorce courts or in a law firm setting as we have for all those years before opening this business, I don’t see how we could provide this service.  In fact, I don’t see how anybody else could hold themselves out as an expert in divorce without the type of experience we have.

When clients call us or come to our office, they have so many questions about divorce in Santa Clarita.  Many of the questions we answer are based completely on the experience we had with the family law court or while working for a family law firm in Santa Clarita.

I guess what I am saying here is that you need to use a divorce company with experience and not just someone who knows how to fill out the forms.

If you have questions about divorce, please give us a call.

 

Started My Divorce And Now Need Help | Santa Clarita Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

If you started your own divorce and now need help, you are not alone.  Many people are convinced that they can complete the divorce process on their own.

While there are people that get through the divorce process on their own, they did not do it without facing many problems along the way.  How do I know this?  Because I have lots of people who call me who started their divorce and later found that it was not as easy a process as they thought it was going to be.

People who start their own divorce generally feel that their divorce is pretty cut and dry because they either have an agreement on the terms of the divorce or because they figure it is just a matter of filing out a bunch of forms.

While it is true that the divorce process is just filing out a bunch of forms, a large percentage of people who take on the divorce process on their own are not able to succesfully complete the divorce process without some outside assistance.

That is where we come in.  If you have started your divorce and realize that you are not going to complete it on your own, there is help.  Maybe you got in over your head and the paperwork got confusing or perhaps you got through all the paperwork, only to submit you final judgment paperwork and have it rejected by the court.  What’s worse, is that your case was rejected for forms you completed several months ago in which the clerk stamped, but did not say there was anything wrong with them.  Frustrating to say the least.

We can assist you with your div0rce regardless of where you are at in the process.  We get lots of cases every week which are at different points in the divorce process.  Some have just filed and others did all the paperwork,  but later found they had wasted their time becuase it was all incorrect.

If you need assistance, please give us a call.   We would be happy to take a look at your divorce paperwork and complete a quick review to see where you went wrong. Often, we find that the very first documents completed were wrong and need to start from the begining.  Sometimes we find that the other party was never served.  Rest assured, we will get to the bottom of it and make sure your divorce case is completed.

We are a divorce document prepa

How To Keep Your Divorce Amicable – Santa Clarita

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

How To Keep Your Divorce Amicable – Santa Clarita

There are lots of benefits of having an amicable divorce in Santa Clarita. Probably the biggest advantage is cost. With an amicable divorce, you don’t need to hire an attorney which will save you a ton of money.

There are some things you can do to help keep your divorce amicable throughout the process. The common theme throughout this will be communication.

First, prior to filing for divorce it is a good idea that you try to discuss getting divorced. Try to have a few conversations with your spouse and come up with a plan. Those with a plan of action fare much better.

This means deciding on when to file, who is going to file and agreeing on a divorce document preparation company like us to meet with.

One or both of you can meet with us to make sure you are comfortable using our service. When you meet with us, we will explain the divorce process in full so both parties understand exactly what to expect throughout the process.

The next thing to do to keep your divorce amicable is to avoid hiring a process server. Nobody like having some stranger walk up to them and be handed divorce papers and told they are being served. We can help you avoid having to do this. In fact, you could simply have the spouse that needs to be served come to our office and pick up the documents. We will complete the necessary forms to tell the court that service was completed.

Most issues that come up will be about custody and visitation of children or about money. We will show you how to use the courts free services to help you understand the law so you can make decisions on any issues that you are having trouble coming to an agreement on.

Using the ideas in the article will help keep your divorce amicable. Give us a call so we can come up with a plan for you to keep things running smooth during your divorce.

Getting Divorced And Spouse Avoiding Service Santa Clarita

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

Getting Divorced And Spouse Avoiding Service Santa Clarita

It only takes one to get divorce and there is nothing your spouse can do to top you. But they can make it more difficult.

In most cases getting the other spouse served the divorce papers is a non issue. You either hire a process server or mail the forms following the guidelines on doing so.

But sometimes the process is not so smooth when a spouse wants to play games or be difficult. The issue with delaying the process of service is that you cannot move on until they are served.

I have two such cases currently. The first is a young couple who’s husband is playing cat and mouse with the process server. He was told wife was filing and for unknown reasons is avoiding being served.

All this is causing is a delay in the case and costing his wife more money because the process server is spending a lot more time trying to serve him. They now have to sit outside the home and conduct surveillance and get him somewhere between the front door of the house and the car.

They have already been to the home several times and he lives with room mates. He does not come to the door and they can tell they have been instructed to tell him that the husband is not home.

In the other case, the wife is being difficult in being served. The process server waits outside the house for her to come home from work. She knows there is someone waiting to serve her so pulls into the garage and closes the door.

Again, all that happens is more time is spent trying to serve her. Because she is doing this, husband decided to serve her at work which will cause her a bit of embarrassment.

When you work with us we try to keep everything going smoothly and explain the process in detail so you understand the divorce process. We try to avoid having these contentious issues in the beginning or at all for that matter.

Do You Need A Process Server For Your Santa Clarita Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

Do You Need A Process Server For Your Santa Clarita Divorce

There are some misunderstandings about if you need a process server for your divorce. The reason is because the answer is yes and no and depends on the circumstances. We will explain here.

Normally, the first paper that is filed on your spouse needs to be done by personal service. This would mean hiring a process server or having someone over the age of 18 who is not involved in the case serve your papers.

For instance, if you were the one to file for divorce, you would have to have them served personally. It can even be a family member. One of my clients recently had their adult child hand her dad the papers. This was obviously an amicable divorce situation where everyone was on board.

But there are times where you can simply mail the initial divorce forms to your spouse. When possible, this is my preferred method of serving divorce papers.

There is a form you can use to send the initial divorce documents to your spouse. It is called a notice of acknowledgement of receipt. You have to mail it with 2 copies and have to make sure to check the boxes that says you are serving the summons and petition and any other forms you happen to be mailing to the respondent.

When you use this form, you still have to have to complete a proof of service of summons. This is another area i see where people have issues.

When you mail the initial documents using the notice of acknowledgment of receipt, you need to also complete the proof of service and file both forms with the court. You will check the box that says you used this form and complied with the rules when doing so.

We are a licensed and bonded legal document preparation company that specializes in divorce.

 

Would You Go On Vacation To Get Divorced

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

Would You Go On Vacation To Get Divorced

People come up with some pretty crazy ideas in business sometimes to stand out from the crowd.   I listened to a Podcast today of an attorney who helps people get divorced through mediation.  But with one twist.  They go on vacation to a destination of their choice to complete their divorce.

The attorney Tracey Rosswurm out of Fort Wayne, Indiana says this is a  cost effective way to get through the divorce process.  At the very least it is getting her some attention.  Heck, she was interviewed by a radio show and now I am writing about it.

Here is how it works.  The couples decide that they would rather mediate their divorce rather than going to court.  They decide on a destination that they would enjoy and go there along with the attorney.

The idea is that you are in a nice place without the daily distractions of life.  You can focus on the issues of the divorce at hand and there is nowhere to go.

So what about the  cost.  The attorney says that the costs of the “destination divorce” is much less than that of going to court.  That would be true if the divorce ever ended up in court in the first place.  But certainly, mediation is more cost effective than both spouses hiring an attorney.

I think there will only be a few people that would choose to do this.  It is hard for me to wrap my head around this idea.  If I were going through a divorce, I would not want to ruin some vacation destination that I love by leaving memories of being there for finalizing a divorce.

I would love to hear your comments on this.  Would you go on vacation to get  divorced?  Do you think this is a sustainable business model or a short lived marketing ploy?

 

Another Post Judgment Child Support Motion In Central District

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

Another Post Judgment Child Support Motion In Central District

As legal document assistants we are authorized to work directly for folks in preparing their legal documents.  And lately we have been seeing a huge increase in post judgment motions being filed .

This particular motion is asking for a modification of child support and they want the other party to pay for their attorney fees.

The motion that was filed was a request for more child support and stated that the father was now making more money.  In most cases, you file a motion to modify child support if there is a change in circumstance such as a parent making more or less money.

In this case, the mother stated that father was making more money now and wanted the Court to order higher child support based on the guideline child support limits  and that she was earning less money.

It all comes down to how much the parties make and how much custody and visitation each of them have.  The problem sometimes is determining how much the parties truly make, especially when they own a business and are not receiving a paycheck that can be verified.

This motion also asked for the other party to pay for attorneys fees.  That never rubbed my right.  Tell me what you think about this.

A spouse hires an attorney to modify child support.  She works and had access to funds, but because father makes more money, makes a request in the motion that the husband is to pay for all her attorney fees.  If this motion is granted, then the husband has to pay for his wife’s attorney to file a motion against him.  And just to rub salt in the wound, he is not hiring an attorney himself.  He is going to have us prepare our firm prepare the response so he does not have to pay for an attorney he can’t afford.

We specialize in helping folks get through their divorce including preparing post judgment request for orders and motions.  We are headquartered in Santa Clarita and we serve all of Los Angeles County and all the Courts.