The #1 Problem with Filing FL-160s in California Divorce | Los Angeles Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

The #1 Problem with Filing FL-160s in California Divorce

Filing for divorce can be an overwhelming process, especially when it comes to the paperwork involved. One of the critical forms in California divorce proceedings is the FL-160 Property Declaration. Unfortunately, this form is notorious for being a common stumbling block that can lead to rejections. Understanding the issues surrounding the FL-160 can help you navigate these waters more smoothly and avoid costly mistakes.

Understanding the FL-160 Property Declaration

The FL-160 is a property declaration that requires you to list all assets and debts in your marriage. This includes everything from real estate and bank accounts to vehicles and personal property. The information you provide must be complete and accurate, as any omissions or errors can result in the rejection of your filing.

Many people find the FL-160 form complex and daunting. It requires precise details about your financial situation, which can be overwhelming if you’re not familiar with the process. Let’s dive into the common issues that arise with this form and how to avoid them.

Incomplete or Incorrect Information

One of the most significant issues with the FL-160 is incomplete or incorrect information. It’s essential to ensure that all required details are included. When couples are going through a divorce, emotions can run high, and it’s easy to overlook critical information. For instance, if you forget to include a joint bank account or miscalculate the value of an asset, it can lead to complications down the line.

To avoid this pitfall, take your time when filling out the FL-160. Make a comprehensive list of all assets and debts before you start. Double-check your numbers and ensure that everything is accurately represented. If you’re unsure about any information, consider consulting with a professional who specializes in divorce paperwork.

Complex Requirements

The FL-160 not only requires you to list assets and debts, but it also demands that you categorize them correctly. For example, distinguishing between community property and separate property is crucial. Community property generally includes assets acquired during the marriage, while separate property consists of assets owned before the marriage or received as gifts or inheritance.

This distinction can be complicated, especially if you’ve mixed assets over the years. It’s advisable to seek legal guidance to ensure you categorize everything correctly. If you misclassify an asset, it might lead to disputes later on, delaying your divorce process.

Timing Matters

Another common issue with the FL-160 is filing it at the wrong stage in your divorce process. Timing is critical in divorce proceedings, and submitting the FL-160 too early or too late can cause unnecessary delays. It’s essential to understand when to file this form to keep your divorce on track.

Consult with your attorney or divorce professional to determine the best time to submit your FL-160. This will help ensure that your paperwork aligns with the overall timeline of your divorce process, preventing any complications that could arise from misalignment.

Addressing Assets and Debts in the Judgment

When you file your FL-160, it’s crucial to ensure that the assets and debts listed are addressed in your divorce judgment. This means that all items must be assigned to one spouse or the other in the final decree. Failing to do this can lead to future disputes about ownership or responsibility for debts.

In amicable divorces, this process can be straightforward, as both parties agree on how to divide their assets. However, if there’s disagreement, it can complicate matters. It’s essential to have clear communication and possibly even mediation to ensure that both parties are satisfied with the division of property.

Working with Professionals

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the FL-160 or any other aspect of your divorce paperwork, don’t hesitate to seek help. Professionals like divorce attorneys or paralegals specialize in navigating these forms and can provide invaluable guidance.

At Divorce661, we help ensure your FL-160 is completed accurately and submitted at the right time. Our expertise can help you avoid costly mistakes that could delay your divorce process.

Final Thoughts

Filing the FL-160 Property Declaration is a vital part of the divorce process in California. By understanding the common pitfalls associated with this form and taking proactive steps to avoid them, you can streamline your divorce proceedings and minimize complications. Remember to double-check your information, seek legal guidance, and ensure that your assets and debts are properly addressed in your divorce judgment. With the right approach, you can make this challenging time a little easier.

Need help with your divorce paperwork? Contact us today for expert guidance!

Visit our website at Divorce661 or schedule a free phone consultation here.

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Remember, you’re not alone in this process. With the right information and support, you can navigate your divorce successfully.

 

Why Divorce661 Is the Best Choice for Amicable Divorces in California | Los Angeles Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

Why Divorce661 Is the Best Choice for Amicable Divorces in California

Divorce can be a challenging journey, but it doesn’t have to be a painful one. For couples looking to part ways amicably, finding the right support is essential. At Divorce661, we specialize in providing a smooth, efficient, and cost-effective approach to divorce, helping thousands of couples navigate this transition with ease. Let’s dive into the unique services we offer and real-life examples of how we’ve successfully assisted our clients in achieving their divorce goals.

Table of Contents

Flat Fee Divorce Services

One of the standout benefits of choosing Divorce661 is our flat fee pricing model. Unlike traditional attorneys who charge by the hour, we offer a transparent cost structure that covers everything from paperwork preparation to court filing. This means no hidden fees or unexpected surprises along the way.

Take, for example, a couple who initially hired attorneys only to find their fees skyrocketing without significant progress. Frustrated and worried about their mounting expenses, they turned to us. After reviewing their case, we prepared all necessary documents and finalized their divorce within weeks—all for a fraction of what they had already spent on attorney retainers. This is just one of the many instances where our flat fee service has saved clients both time and money.

Divorce Judgment Review and Filing

Many couples start their divorce journey thinking they can handle the paperwork on their own, only to find themselves stuck when their documentation gets rejected. California courts are meticulous about how divorce judgments must be structured, and even small mistakes can lead to significant delays.

For instance, a client reached out to us after attempting to file their final divorce judgment three times, only to face rejection each time. We reviewed their paperwork, corrected the errors, and resubmitted everything accurately. Within a few weeks, their case was approved, and they were able to finalize their divorce without any further complications.

eFiling for Faster Processing

In certain California counties, electronic filing (eFiling) is an option that can significantly expedite the divorce process. At Divorce661, we handle eFiling for our clients, ensuring that all documents are submitted correctly and processed quickly.

For example, we assisted a couple who had already agreed on all terms but needed help with filing their paperwork. By managing the eFiling process, we submitted their case and obtained approval much faster than if they had attempted to navigate the system on their own.

Stress-Free Document Preparation

Dealing with court forms and legal jargon can be overwhelming, especially for those unfamiliar with the process. Our Document Preparation service is designed to alleviate this stress, ensuring that everything is completed correctly the first time. This reduces anxiety and avoids unnecessary delays.

One couple we worked with wanted a simple uncontested divorce but had no idea where to start. They reached out to us, and we guided them through each step, prepared their documents, and filed everything on their behalf. Their divorce was approved without a hitch, allowing them to move forward without any hassle.

Get Your Divorce Done Right with Divorce661

If you and your spouse are seeking a fast, affordable, and hassle-free way to get divorced, look no further than Divorce661. Our dedicated team is here to help you navigate the process smoothly. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and let’s work together to finalize your divorce the right way.

FAQs About Amicable Divorce in California

Q: How long does an amicable divorce take in California?

A: The timeline for an amicable divorce can vary, but generally, it can take around six months to finalize. This includes a mandatory waiting period in California, but many couples find that the process can be expedited with the right support.

Q: What is the first step in getting a divorce?

A: The first step is to consult with a divorce professional to understand your options. Even if you and your spouse are on good terms, getting guidance can help you navigate the legal aspects more effectively.

Q: Can I handle my divorce without a lawyer?

A: Yes, many couples choose to handle their divorce without a lawyer, especially if they are in agreement on all terms. However, having a professional like Divorce661 can help ensure that all paperwork is completed correctly and filed in a timely manner.

Q: What should I do if my divorce paperwork gets rejected?

A: If your paperwork is rejected, it’s crucial to review the reasons for the rejection and correct any errors. Seeking assistance from a divorce service like Divorce661 can help you avoid further complications and expedite the process.

Q: Is it possible to get a divorce without going to court?

A: Yes, in many cases, couples can finalize their divorce without ever stepping foot in a courtroom, especially if they agree on all terms and utilize services like eFiling.

Conclusion

At Divorce661, we understand that divorce is a significant life event. Our commitment to providing a smooth, stress-free, and affordable process has made us a trusted choice for thousands of couples in California. With our flat fee services, expert document preparation, and focus on amicable resolutions, we’re here to help you move on with your life as quickly and painlessly as possible. Contact us today to get started!

We Can Get Your Santa Clarita Divorce Case Completed FAST!

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

How long does the divorce process take?  When it comes to answering that question with regards to our office, we can get your divorce case completed in a single sitting and as fast as you can get the information to us.

But keep in mind that we are still constrained by the courts rules and timeframes. So even if we complete your entire divorce case in a single day or single meeting, we still need to process your paperwork with the divorce court per their timetables.

I explain more in this video and podcast.

 

Divorce Process Starts When Spouse Is Served | Santa Clarita Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

One of the things that keeps coming up when I am helping clients with divorce is explaining when the divorce process actually starts.  There is some confusion on this as well as what document to file to let the court know your spouse has been served.

The divorce process does not start when you file your divorce case.  When you go to the court and turn in all your papers and pay your filing fee, you will receive a comformed “stamped” copy of your divorce filing.  You and everyone else in this world feels like they have filed their divorce and therefore the divorce process has started.

The divorce process actually starts when your spouse is served, not when you file.  Everything is hinged off the day your spouse is served.  Even the 30 days to file a response or when you want to file a request to enter default.  None of these things can occur until your spouse is served.

When you file a lawsuit (which filing for divorce is) you have to give the other party notice.  Notice that you have filed for divorce and what you are asking for such as your requests in the divorce Petition.

So three things I want to clear up here.

  • The six month waiting period does not start until your spouse is served.
  • You can’t file for a default unless 30 days have passed since your spouse was served.
  • The Court won’t know your spouse was served unless you complete a proof of service and file it with the court.

These are the big three things to watch out for.  And make sure to complete your proof of service correctly.  There are several boxes you need to complete and many the person who will be doing the serving needs to complete.  I see a lot of people who do this wrong or forget to put the dates and times of service, etc.

I hope this clears up the issues of when the divorce process actually starts.  When does it start?  When your spouse is served!

Taking On More Challenging Divorce Cases In Santa Clarita

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

When I first started this business, my idea was that I would handle the cut and dry divorce cases. Ones where both parties agree on all aspects of the divorce and it is more of a transaction.

While the majority of our cases fit this mold, we are starting to see a large influx of clients who have contested divorce cases or cases where there is no agreements.

These are people who would normally hire an attorney to represent them in their divorce. However, this new bread of people coming into our office who don’t want to spend the money on an attorney or find the costs of hiring an attorney prohibitive.

So we have been taking on these more difficult divorce cases. These are divorce cases where it takes more than just filing out divorce documents and requires an expertise as to court procedure and how to maneuver a case through the courts.

We are able to do this because we have, and continue to, work closely with the Los Angeles Superior Courts and have worked for large law firms in family law.

We have been taking cases where clients are representing themselves in their divorce and we are taking them all the way through the court process. From filing the initial petition, to filing motions for support and custody, all the way to trial. We have concluded several cases that went to trial.

Of course, we are not a law firm and are not attorneys, so cannot give you legal advice, but we can advise you the steps that need to be taken as far as court procedure is concerned and complete the necessary documents to get you into court and help you complete your divorce case in Los Angeles.

If you find yourself among this growing population of people who need assistance with your divorce, but find the costs of hiring a divorce attorney prohibitive, then give us a call. We would be happy discuss how we can help you through the divorce process.