How to Annul a Marriage in California? | Los Angeles Divorce

 

How to Annul a Marriage in California? | Los Angeles Divorce

I’m Tim Blankenship of Divorce661. In this article I’ll explain what an annulment is in California, the limited grounds that qualify, how the process differs from divorce, and how we can help you—remotely and for a flat fee.

What is an annulment?

An annulment erases a marriage as if it never existed.

Unlike a divorce, which ends a legally valid marriage moving forward, an annulment declares the marriage void or voidable from the start. That legal difference matters for property, benefits, and how the marriage is treated under the law.

Legal grounds for annulment in California

Annulments are granted only in specific, serious situations. The most common grounds include:

  • Fraud: One spouse was induced into marriage by intentional deception about an essential fact.
  • Bigamy: One spouse was already legally married to someone else when the second marriage occurred.
  • Force or coercion: The marriage was entered into under duress or threats.
  • Incapacity: Examples include being underage without proper consent or lacking mental capacity to consent to marriage.

These are legal standards, not mere personal complaints. Each ground requires evidence and proper legal pleading to succeed.

Real-life example: bigamy annulment

We had a client who discovered their spouse was still legally married to someone else. That’s a clear case of bigamy. Because we filed the correct annulment paperwork, the court declared the marriage void and we avoided a lengthy divorce. When the grounds are clear and the paperwork is done correctly, annulments can be quicker and less burdensome than traditional divorces.

How the annulment process generally works

  1. Consultation: Review the facts to determine whether you realistically qualify for annulment.
  2. Gather evidence: Documentation that proves fraud, prior marriage, coercion, or incapacity is critical.
  3. File the petition: Prepare and file the appropriate annulment forms with the court.
  4. Serve the other party: The spouse must be served with the petition unless the court allows otherwise.
  5. Court review/hearing: The court evaluates the evidence and decides whether to void the marriage.
  6. Final paperwork: If granted, the court issues an order declaring the marriage void; ensure all related documents reflect that outcome.

Filing the correct forms and presenting clear evidence is key. Even a straightforward case can stall without the right paperwork or legal presentation.

Do you qualify—or do you need a divorce?

If you suspect your marriage may not be valid, the first step is to determine whether your situation fits one of the narrow legal grounds for annulment. If it doesn’t, a divorce will usually be the appropriate route.

We offer a free consultation to review your facts and recommend the best path. Our services include flat-fee annulment and divorce help, with 100% remote filing across California—so you can handle everything from home without unnecessary court hassle.

Next steps and how we can help

  • Get a clear assessment of whether you qualify for annulment.
  • Let us prepare and file the correct paperwork to avoid delays.
  • Use our flat-fee, remote service to simplify the process and reduce stress.

Not sure if your marriage is valid? Request a free consultation at Divorce661.com to review your options and take control of your future with confidence. We’re here to help you move forward and ensure your peace of mind.

How to Get a Legal Separation in California | California Divorce

 

How to Get a Legal Separation in California

I’m Tim Blankenship from Divorce661. If you’re weighing divorce but not ready to end your marriage, there’s an important alternative to consider: legal separation in California. In this article I’ll walk you through what legal separation is, how the process works, who it helps, and how to get started—step by step.

What is legal separation?

Legal separation is a court-approved process that looks a lot like divorce in terms of resolving financial and parenting issues—but it leaves you legally married. That means you can divide assets, set support arrangements, and obtain court-ordered custody decisions while maintaining your marital status.

Legal separation mirrors divorce, but keeps you legally married.

Why choose legal separation instead of divorce?

  • Religious or personal beliefs: Some couples wish to remain married for religious reasons or personal convictions but still need legal clarity about finances and parenting.
  • Health insurance and benefits: Staying legally married can preserve eligibility for employer-sponsored health insurance and other benefits.
  • Financial planning: Legal separation allows you to separate finances and property without triggering the finality of divorce.
  • Time to decide: It gives couples space to address practical matters without permanently ending the marriage.

How legal separation works in California: a step-by-step guide

The legal separation process in California follows many of the same steps as a divorce. Here’s a straightforward breakdown:

  1. File the petition: One spouse files a petition with the court to start the legal separation. This initiates the legal process while keeping the marital status intact.
  2. Serve your spouse: The filing spouse must ensure the other spouse is properly served with the legal papers, which gives them formal notice and the opportunity to respond.
  3. Exchange financial disclosures: Both parties must disclose assets, debts, income, and expenses—this is required for fair division and support calculations.
  4. Resolve key issues: You’ll address custody and parenting time for children, child support, spousal support (if applicable), and division of community property and debts.
  5. Reach an agreement or go to court: Most couples resolve issues by agreement (through negotiation or mediation). If needed, the court will decide contested issues.
  6. Judgment of legal separation: Once terms are finalized, the court issues a judgment of legal separation that sets the legal framework for finances and parenting moving forward.

What issues must be resolved?

Even though you’re not getting divorced, legal separation requires resolving the same practical issues:

  • Child custody and visitation (parenting plan)
  • Child support calculations and enforcement
  • Spousal support (temporary or permanent)
  • Division of property and debts (community vs. separate property)
  • Insurance, tax, and retirement account handling

A real example

We recently helped a California couple who wanted to remain married for religious reasons but needed to divide assets and set up support arrangements. Legal separation provided a structured, court-enforced solution that honored their beliefs while protecting each spouse’s financial interests and clarifying parenting responsibilities. They got the certainty and legal protections they needed—without finalizing a divorce.

Benefits and limitations

  • Benefits: Maintains marital status, preserves benefits like health insurance, creates enforceable orders for support and custody, and provides financial clarity.
  • Limitations: You remain legally married, so remarriage isn’t possible unless you later convert the separation into a divorce. Also, some people mistakenly assume separation automatically changes tax or benefit eligibility—these must be checked with employers or tax advisors.

How Divorce661 can help

At Divorce661 we provide full-service legal separation support tailored for amicable or cooperative situations. Our services include filing, serving, preparing disclosures, negotiating agreements, and finalizing the judgment—start to finish—so you don’t have to navigate confusing paperwork or multiple court appearances.

  • Flat-fee pricing with no surprise bills
  • 100% remote service—handle everything from home
  • We prepare and file paperwork, serve documents, and manage disclosures and agreements
  • No court hassle for many cases when couples reach agreement

If you want to learn more, schedule a free consultation at Divorce661.com. We’ll walk through your options, explain how legal separation could work for your situation, and help you take the next step with confidence.

Next steps and closing thoughts

Legal separation in California is a flexible, practical option for couples who need legal solutions without ending their marriage. If you’re considering separation for religious reasons, benefits preservation, or to gain financial clarity, it’s worth exploring with an experienced provider.

Take a moment to assess your priorities—custody, health insurance, finances, or religious beliefs—and then get guidance. Legal separation can provide peace of mind, enforceable orders, and a clear path forward while preserving the marriage if that’s what you want.

Visit Divorce661.com for a free consultation and to discover whether legal separation is the right option for your family.

How to Choose a Divorce Attorney in California (and When You Don’t Need One) | California Divorce

 

How to Choose a Divorce Attorney in California (and When You Don’t Need One)

I’m Tim Blankenship of Divorce661. If you’re thinking about hiring a divorce attorney in California, the most important first step is deciding whether you actually need one. In many amicable cases, you can avoid the expense and delay of full-scope representation—but there are clear situations where a family law attorney is essential. Below I’ll walk you through how to decide, common red flags, alternatives that save time and money, and how Divorce661 helps couples finish amicable divorces from start to finish.

Quick framework: Do you need a divorce attorney?

Not every divorce requires a lawyer. Ask yourself these questions:

  • Are there custody disputes? If either parent is contesting custody or visitation, you should consult a family law attorney.
  • Is property division contested or complex? High-value assets, businesses, or unclear property/debt ownership usually require legal counsel.
  • Is spousal or child support in dispute? Support calculations and enforcement are legal issues that benefit from an attorney’s guidance.
  • Is the case high-conflict or is there a history of domestic violence? If tensions are high or safety is a concern, secure legal help immediately.
  • Do you and your spouse fully agree on everything? If yes—assets, debts, support, custody—and you can communicate, you may not need full legal representation.

Common red flags that mean you should hire a family law specialist

  • Attorney experience in family law matters: a general practitioner may not be the right fit.
  • Delays and repeated filings: choosing the wrong lawyer or approach can cost months.
  • Hidden complexity: business ownership, retirement accounts, or community vs separate property disputes.
  • Confusion about legal steps or court filings—mistakes here can have lasting consequences.

Alternatives to full-scope representation

If your divorce is amicable and straightforward, consider these options:

  • Flat-fee divorce services: Pay a single price for a complete, court-ready filing—no hourly billing surprises.
  • Limited-scope or unbundled legal help: Hire an attorney just for specific tasks (e.g., reviewing an agreement or answering legal questions).
  • Do-it-yourself with professional forms and filing support: If you and your spouse agree, a properly prepared filing can be efficient and affordable.

A real client example

“One of our clients hired a general attorney who didn’t specialize in family law. After months of delays, they came to us. We discovered they didn’t even need an attorney—we finished their case quickly, for one flat fee.”

This happens more often than you’d think. The wrong type of lawyer can add time and cost. Conversely, the right process—tailored to your situation—gets you through the paperwork quickly and with fewer headaches.

How Divorce661 handles amicable divorces

  • Start-to-finish service: We prepare and file court-approved documents so you don’t have to guess the forms or process.
  • Flat-fee pricing: One transparent fee covers the whole process—no hourly billing or hidden charges.
  • Professional filings: Documents are prepared to meet court standards to reduce the chance of rejection or rework.
  • Attorney referrals: If your case becomes complex or contested, we’ll refer you to trusted family law attorneys.

How to choose the right attorney if you do need one

  • Confirm they specialize in family law and have experience with cases like yours.
  • Ask about billing: flat fee vs hourly, and what’s included.
  • Request a clear timeline and milestones so you know what to expect.
  • Ask how they will communicate and who will handle your filings.
  • Get references or read reviews from other clients.

How to get started

If you’re unsure whether you need an attorney, book a free consultation so we can review your situation and recommend the smartest, most affordable path forward. Bring basic documents (marriage date, assets, debts, any existing agreements, and information about children) to help us provide clear guidance.

Conclusion

Choosing whether to hire a divorce attorney in California comes down to the details of your case. Custody disputes, contested property, support issues, and high-conflict situations usually require an experienced family law attorney. But many amicable divorces can be resolved quickly—and far more affordably—without full-scope representation. At Divorce661, our goal is to help you make an informed decision and move through your divorce with confidence and clarity.

If you want personalized advice, schedule a free consultation and we’ll help you choose the best path for your divorce.

How to Prepare for a Divorce Mediation in California | Los Angeles Divorce Tips from Divorce661 | Los Angeles Divorce

 

How to Prepare for a Divorce Mediation in California | Los Angeles Divorce Tips from Divorce661

Hi, I’m Tim Blankenship from Divorce661. If you’re considering divorce mediation in California, you’re already on the right path toward a faster, less stressful outcome. Mediation is a peaceful alternative to court battles—one that often saves time, money, and emotional energy. Below I’ll walk you through how to show up prepared and confident so you can reach an amicable agreement as smoothly as possible.

Why Choose Mediation?

Mediation focuses on finding common ground and moving forward amicably rather than fighting in court. Here’s why many couples prefer it:

  • Cost-effective: Mediation typically costs far less than litigation.
  • Time-saving: Many couples reach a full agreement in a single session.
  • Less emotional stress: You control the outcome together rather than leaving decisions to a judge.
  • Privacy: Mediation keeps your family’s details out of public court records.

What to Bring to Divorce Mediation

Preparation is the key to a productive mediation session. Bring clear, organized financial documentation so discussions can stay focused and efficient. At a minimum, gather the following:

  • Income information and recent pay stubs
  • Bank account statements
  • Credit card statements and other debts
  • Property details (mortgages, deeds, appraisals)
  • Retirement account balances and account statements
  • Any other financial disclosures relevant to your household

Having a complete financial picture prevents misunderstandings and helps both sides negotiate from the same facts.

How Organized Documentation Helps

When your records are organized:

  • Discussions stay focused on solutions rather than fact-finding.
  • Agreements can be reached more quickly—often in a single mediation session.
  • You avoid surprises that can derail negotiations later.

Identify Your Priorities Before Mediation

Entering mediation with clear goals makes a huge difference. Ask yourself:

  • What are my top priorities? (e.g., housing, child custody, support, retirement)
  • What am I willing to compromise on?
  • What are my non-negotiables?

Set a focused mindset and rank your objectives. Couples who clarify priorities ahead of time often reach mutual satisfaction quickly—some in just one session.

How Divorce661 Prepares You

At Divorce661 we help clients get organized and enter mediation with confidence. Our services include:

  • Preparing and organizing your financial disclosures
  • Helping you clarify goals and priorities before mediation
  • Drafting all necessary divorce paperwork after mediation—flat fee, no court

One real client story: we helped a couple organize their financials and clarify their goals. They reached a full agreement in one session and finalized their divorce shortly after—saving time, stress, and money.

What to Expect During Mediation

Mediation sessions vary, but when you’re prepared you can expect:

  • A structured conversation led by a neutral mediator
  • Focus on problem-solving and compromise
  • Opportunities to propose creative solutions tailored to your family
  • A written settlement that can be converted into court documents if needed

Preparation makes the mediator’s job easier and increases the likelihood of a complete agreement.

Practical Tips to Get Organized

  1. Create a checklist of required documents and gather digital copies.
  2. Organize statements by account and date—use a spreadsheet if helpful.
  3. Make a short priorities list (top 3 goals and top 3 concessions).
  4. Consider professional help to review disclosures before mediation.

Ready to Move Forward?

If you want to enter mediation prepared and confident, we can help you get organized and stay focused. Visit Divorce661.com for a free consultation. We’ll guide you through financial disclosures, clarify your goals, and handle the paperwork so you can finalize your divorce peacefully.

Let’s get you organized and ready to reach a peaceful agr Continue reading “How to Prepare for a Divorce Mediation in California | Los Angeles Divorce Tips from Divorce661 | Los Angeles Divorce”

How to Enforce Child Support Orders in California — Practical Steps to Get the Payments Your Child Deserves | California Divorce

 

How to Enforce Child Support Orders in California — Practical Steps to Get the Payments Your Child Deserves

I’m Tim Blankenship from Divorce661. If your ex has stopped paying court-ordered child support in California, don’t panic—you have options. In this article I’ll walk you through the enforcement tools available, explain how they work, and outline practical steps you can take to enforce a child support order and protect your child’s financial future.

Why enforcement matters

Unpaid child support impacts more than just bank accounts. It affects your child’s housing, education, medical care, and overall stability. Even with a judgment or court order in place, non-payment is unfortunately common. The good news is that California law provides several enforcement mechanisms to help you collect what is owed.

Enforcement tools available in California

Here are the primary tools courts and child support agencies use to compel payment:

  • Filing an enforcement request with the court — This starts the legal process to recover unpaid support and is often the first step.
  • Wage garnishment / wage assignment — The court or child support agency can order the payer’s employer to deduct child support directly from their paycheck, ensuring steady payments.
  • Liens on property — A lien can be placed on real property or other assets to secure unpaid child support until the debt is satisfied.
  • Suspension of driver’s license or professional licenses — The state can suspend driving privileges or professional licenses to encourage compliance.
  • Interest on unpaid amounts — Unpaid child support typically accrues interest, increasing the urgency to collect what’s owed.

How to start the enforcement process

Follow these practical steps to enforce a child support order in California:

  1. Review your existing child support order — Confirm the terms, the amounts due, and any arrears already documented. This helps identify what to request in your enforcement filing.
  2. Gather documentation — Collect pay stubs, communication records, court orders, and any proof of non-payment to support your request.
  3. File an enforcement request — Submit the enforcement paperwork to the court. This can be done through the county family law court or with assistance from a legal service.
  4. Request specific remedies — Ask the court for wage garnishment, a lien, license suspension, or other remedies based on what is likely to be effective in your situation.
  5. Coordinate with local child support agencies — County child support agencies can help enforce orders, issue wage assignments, and work directly with employers.

Real case example

We recently helped a parent who hadn’t received child support for over six months. After filing the enforcement request, the court issued a wage assignment and the payer’s employer began deducting payments directly from wages. Payments started flowing again—and reliably. This gave the custodial parent immediate financial stability and peace of mind.

Common questions and quick answers

How long does enforcement take?

Timelines vary. Wage garnishments can be implemented quickly once the court issues an order, but other remedies like liens or license suspensions may take longer depending on court schedules and administrative processing.

Will unpaid support continue to accumulate?

Yes. Unpaid child support usually accrues interest until paid in full, which increases the amount owed over time. That’s why prompt enforcement is important.

Do I need a lawyer?

You don’t always need a lawyer, but professional help can ensure paperwork is filed correctly and quickly. Many parents choose document-preparation services or legal assistance to avoid delays and mistakes.

How Divorce661 can help

At Divorce661 we specialize in flat-fee legal document preparation and court filing assistance. We prepare enforcement paperwork accurately, coordinate with local child support agencies, and help you move the process forward efficiently.

  • Flat-fee legal document prep
  • Professional, accurate court filings
  • Coordination with child support agencies
  • Fast preparation to get enforcement started quickly

“We filed the enforcement request, the court issued a wage assignment, and payments started flowing again—reliably and on time.”

Next steps

If you’re not receiving the child support you’re owed, take action now. Start by reviewing your order and gathering documentation. If you want help preparing and filing enforcement paperwork, visit Divorce661.com for a free consultation. We’ll help you enforce your rights and protect your child’s financial future.

Contact

Divorce661 — Free consultation: Divorce661.com

How to Modify Spousal Support in California | California Divorce

 

How to Modify Spousal Support in California

I’m Tim Blankenship of Divorce661. If your financial situation has shifted since your spousal support order was entered, you may be able to change that order. In this article I’ll walk you through what the law looks for, common reasons courts grant modifications, a real client example, and the practical steps you can take to pursue a change—quickly and affordably.

What California Courts Mean by a “Material Change in Circumstances”

At the heart of any spousal support modification is the concept of a material change in circumstances. A court won’t modify support simply because time has passed. You must show a substantial, demonstrable change that affects either the payer’s ability to pay or the recipient’s need for support.

“Time alone isn’t a valid reason for modification.”

Examples of material changes include a job loss, a significant drop or increase in income, retirement, or the supported spouse becoming self-supporting. The change should be more than temporary or minor—the court looks for a real, lasting impact.

Common Reasons Courts Modify Spousal Support

  • Job loss or involuntary unemployment: Being laid off or terminated can justify a reduction if the change is substantial and not self-inflicted.
  • Change in income for either party: If the payer’s income falls or the recipient’s income rises significantly, a court may adjust payments.
  • Retirement: Retirement can alter a payer’s ability to pay and may trigger modification.
  • Supported spouse becomes self-supporting: If the recipient establishes sufficient income, continued support may be reduced or terminated.

Why Time Alone Isn’t Enough

Court orders don’t automatically change with the calendar. To reopen support, you must present evidence showing why the original financial assumptions no longer apply. Judges need to see financial documentation and a persuasive explanation of how the change impacts the support calculation.

Real Case Example: How Updated Financials Made a Difference

We helped a client who had been paying spousal support for nearly 10 years. He experienced a career change that resulted in significantly lower income, while his ex-spouse’s earnings increased. By assembling updated financial records and filing a modification request, we were able to get his monthly payment reduced by nearly half.

Key takeaway: up-to-date, accurate financial documentation often makes or breaks a modification request.

How Divorce661 Can Help

  • Review your existing order: We analyze the current judgment and assess whether a modification is likely.
  • Prepare and file court-ready documents: We handle the motions and supporting paperwork from start to finish.
  • Draft stipulations: If both parties agree, we can prepare a stipulation to modify support without a contested hearing.
  • Flat-fee services and free consultation: Practical, predictable pricing and a free initial consult to map your options.

Visit divorce661.com to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you move forward.

Practical Steps to Pursue a Modification

  1. Gather updated financial documents (pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, retirement statements).
  2. Prepare a current income-and-expense statement showing your present financial situation.
  3. Try to negotiate a stipulation with your ex-spouse—mutual agreements are often faster and less costly.
  4. If negotiation fails, file a motion for modification with the family court that issued the original order.
  5. Attend the hearing with organized evidence and a clear explanation of the material change.

Documentation That Matters

  • Recent pay stubs and employer statements (or termination notices)
  • Federal tax returns (most recent 1–3 years)
  • Bank and retirement account statements
  • Proof of new employment, reduced hours, or retirement
  • Evidence of the supported spouse’s increased income, if relevant

Final Thoughts

If your spousal support order no longer reflects your financial reality, don’t wait—courts expect you to show real change, not just the passage of time. With the right documentation and the proper filing, you may be able to reduce or terminate support, or otherwise align your order with today’s circumstances.

Want help evaluating your situation? Schedule a free consultation at divorce661.com and we’ll review your order, prepare filings, and explain whether a stipulation or court motion is the best path.

Question: Do you think spousal support should have a time limit in California? Share your thoughts.

What to Do If Your Divorce Papers Are Rejected in San Bernardino County | San Bernardino Divorce

 

What to Do If Your Divorce Papers Are Rejected in San Bernardino County

Hi, I’m Tim Blankenship with Divorce661. If your San Bernardino divorce paperwork was rejected by the court, don’t panic — you’re not alone. Paperwork rejections are one of the most common reasons divorces are delayed, but the good news is they’re usually fixable with the right approach. Below I’ll walk you through why rejections happen, a real client example, practical steps to get your case back on track, and how my team can help you resolve the issue quickly.

Why San Bernardino Courts Reject Divorce Paperwork

Rejections typically happen because something was filled out incorrectly, a required form was missing, or the information didn’t meet the court’s strict formatting or procedural standards. Even small mistakes can cause your judgment package to be returned without approval.

  • Missing required forms or attachments (e.g., financial disclosures)
  • Incomplete fields or unchecked boxes
  • Incorrect legal language in property division or judgment documents
  • Formatting or procedural issues that don’t match county rules
  • Signatures, dates, or notary requirements not completed correctly

“Paperwork rejections are one of the most common reasons divorces are delayed.”

Real Client Story: From Two Rejections to an Approved Judgment

We recently worked with a client in San Bernardino whose divorce judgment had been rejected twice. The court returned the file because disclosures were incomplete and the property division language was incorrect. The client was understandably frustrated and unsure what to fix.

We reviewed the entire file, corrected the disclosure issues, revised the property division language to match the court’s requirements, prepared a new judgment package, and resubmitted. The judgment was approved within a few weeks — and the client was able to move forward without further delay.

What to Do Right Now If Your Papers Are Rejected

If you received a rejection notice from the court, follow these steps to resolve it as quickly as possible:

  1. Read the rejection notice carefully. The court will usually indicate what is missing or incorrect.
  2. Compare the notice to your file. Identify the exact forms, pages, or language the court flagged.
  3. Correct the specific issues. Fix missing information, check boxes, signatures, and any incorrect legal wording.
  4. Confirm formatting and local rules. San Bernardino County has procedural and formatting expectations — make sure your packet follows them.
  5. Gather any missing documents. Examples include income and expense declarations, property disclosures, and any required attachments.
  6. Resubmit the packet correctly. Double-check everything before filing to avoid another rejection.
  7. Get professional help if needed. If you’re unsure what the court wants, an experienced service can review and correct the packet for you.

Preventing Rejections: A Quick Checklist

  • Use the court’s most current forms and local mandatory forms.
  • Complete every required field and check every checkbox.
  • Carefully review legal language for property division and support terms.
  • Include all required attachments (e.g., financial disclosures, exhibits).
  • Verify signatures, dates, and any notarization requirements.
  • Follow the county’s formatting rules (margins, page numbering, copy requirements).
  • Keep a copy of everything you file and the court’s rejection notice for reference.

How Divorce661 Can Help

At Divorce661, we specialize in taking over cases that have stalled because paperwork was rejected. Our process is straightforward:

  • We review your entire file to find the issues that caused the rejection.
  • We correct the errors and prepare a new judgment package that meets court standards.
  • We resubmit the documents properly so you don’t have to deal with the court alone.

We work on a flat-fee basis — no hourly attorney costs — and aim to get rejected files approved fast. In many cases, we’re able to have a corrected judgment approved within weeks.

If your divorce paperwork was rejected in San Bernardino County and you want it done right this time, visit Divorce661.com to schedule your free consultation. We’ll get your case back on track quickly and with less stress.

Conclusion

Getting a rejection from the court is frustrating, but it doesn’t have to derail your divorce. Most rejections are fixable by addressing the specific issues the court identifies, following local rules, and double-checking every item in your packet. If you’d like help, my team and I at Divorce661 are ready to review your file, correct the problems, and resubmit your paperwork so you can move forward.

Remember: stay calm, read the court’s notice, and take targeted action — you can get this resolved.