Santa Clarita Divorce Legal Document Services | Santa Clarita Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

Santa Clarita Divorce Legal Document Services

Divorce can be a daunting process, filled with emotional turmoil and complex legalities. Many people are unaware that there are alternatives to traditional legal representation that can save both time and money. In Santa Clarita, we specialize in providing affordable legal document preparation services specifically for divorce cases. Let’s dive into what we offer and how we can assist you in navigating your divorce journey.

Understanding Our Role as Legal Document Assistants

While many people search for divorce paralegals, it’s essential to understand that we operate as Legal Document Assistants (LDAs). Unlike traditional paralegals who must work under an attorney’s supervision, we are licensed and bonded to work directly with the public. This means we can provide you with a more affordable service without the need for attorney oversight.

When you choose to work with us, your relationship is directly with our team. This not only simplifies the process but also reduces your costs significantly. Our divorce preparation services start as low as $599, depending on the complexity of your case and the level of assistance you require. We believe that everyone deserves access to quality legal support without breaking the bank.

Comprehensive Divorce Services

We pride ourselves on offering a wide range of services tailored to meet your specific needs throughout the divorce process. Here’s a breakdown of what we can assist you with:

  • Divorce Cases: We handle all aspects of divorce documentation and preparation.
  • Paternity Cases: Assistance with establishing paternity and related legal documentation.
  • Child Custody Motions: Preparing motions related to child custody arrangements.
  • Spousal Support Motions: Document preparation for spousal support requests.
  • Child Support Matters: Assistance with child support documentation and calculations.
  • Visitation Rights: Preparing documents to establish visitation agreements.
  • Declarations and Set Asides: We can help with drafting declarations and motions to set aside judgments.

No matter where you are in the divorce process, whether you’re just starting or have a case that’s been unresolved for years, we are here to help. Our expertise allows us to pick up where you left off, ensuring that your case is handled efficiently and effectively.

What We Cannot Do

It’s important to clarify what our services do not include. As Legal Document Assistants, we are prohibited from providing legal advice or representing you in court. If you have specific legal questions or need to appear in court, we recommend seeking a consultation with an attorney. However, if you only need help with document preparation, we are the right choice for you.

Many clients come to us after consulting with an attorney for legal advice, and that’s perfectly fine. You can get the necessary legal guidance and then return to us for the preparation of your divorce documents, making the process seamless and stress-free.

The Benefits of Choosing Our Services

When it comes to divorce, the goal is to simplify the process while ensuring that all legal requirements are met. Here are some advantages of choosing our services:

  • Cost-Effective Solutions: Our services are designed to be affordable, allowing you to manage your divorce without incurring hefty legal fees.
  • Direct Communication: You deal directly with us, ensuring clear communication and understanding throughout the process.
  • Flexible Assistance: Whether you need help from the start or just need to finalize documents, we can assist you at any stage.
  • Expertise in Family Law: Our team specializes in family law, ensuring that you receive knowledgeable and accurate document preparation.

Getting Started

If you’re considering our services, the first step is simple: give us a call for a free consultation. We understand that every case is unique, and we’re here to discuss your specific circumstances and how we can best assist you.

During the consultation, we will go over your needs, explain our process, and provide you with an estimate of costs based on the services you require. Our goal is to ensure that you feel confident and informed as you move forward with your divorce.

Final Thoughts

Divorce is undoubtedly challenging, but with the right support, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Our legal document preparation service in Santa Clarita is dedicated to helping you navigate this difficult time with ease and efficiency. By choosing to work with us, you’re opting for a more affordable, straightforward approach to divorce.

Remember, whether you’re at the beginning of your divorce journey or have been stuck for years, we can help you take the next steps. Contact us today at 661-281-0266 to schedule your free consultation and find out how we can assist you in achieving a successful divorce.

 

Do You Really Need a Divorce Attorney in Santa Clarita? | Santa Clarita Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

Do You Really Need a Divorce Attorney in Santa Clarita?

Going through a divorce can be overwhelming, and many people instinctively think they need an attorney to guide them through the process. However, the truth might surprise you. In fact, less than 10% of divorce cases in California actually require legal representation. Today, we’re diving into why you might not need a divorce attorney and exploring your options.

Understanding Your Options

When couples decide to separate, the first step often involves reaching out to an attorney. But what if I told you that you might not need one at all? Many individuals don’t realize that they can represent themselves during the divorce process. This option can save you a significant amount of money while still allowing you to navigate the legal landscape effectively.

It’s essential to understand that seeking a consultation with an attorney to learn about your legal rights is always a wise move. However, if both parties are amicable and can agree on the terms of their divorce, hiring an attorney may not be necessary.

When to Consider Legal Representation

While it’s true that most divorce cases can be resolved without an attorney, there are specific situations where having one may be beneficial. For instance, if your case involves complex financial issues, disputes over child custody, or if one party is uncooperative, you may want to consult with an attorney. However, it’s crucial to note that even in these cases, many couples opt for mediation or other alternatives to resolve their issues amicably.

Why You Might Not Need an Attorney

  • Cost Savings: Legal fees can add up quickly. By representing yourself or using a document preparation service, you can save a considerable amount of money.
  • Amicable Separation: If both parties agree on the terms of the divorce, you may not need a lawyer to facilitate the process.
  • Control Over the Process: Representing yourself allows you to have full control over your divorce proceedings and decisions.
  • Simple Cases: Many divorces are straightforward and can be resolved without complex legal intervention.

Document Preparation Services

Here at Divorce661, we specialize in document preparation services specifically for divorce cases in California. Our firm is based in Santa Clarita, and we focus solely on divorce matters. This specialization allows us to provide affordable rates without compromising the quality of service.

Our team will professionally prepare all of your divorce documents, ensuring they are filed and served correctly. We guide you through the entire process from start to finish, which can be incredibly beneficial if you’re unfamiliar with the legal system.

The Benefits of Using a Document Preparation Service

  • Affordability: We offer competitive rates compared to traditional law firms.
  • Professional Preparation: Your documents will be prepared with the same attention to detail as they would be in a law firm.
  • No Court Appearance Required: Many couples are able to finalize their divorce without ever stepping foot in a courtroom.
  • Referral Options: If your situation becomes complicated, we can refer you to mediation or a qualified attorney without you having to start over.

What Happens If You Encounter Issues?

It’s not uncommon for couples to start their divorce amicably but then run into disagreements over issues like spousal support or financial matters. If this happens, we have options for you. We can refer you to a mediator who can help you resolve these conflicts. After mediation, you can return to us to finalize your divorce documents.

Even if the process becomes contentious, you won’t have to worry about losing the progress you’ve made. We prepare your documents professionally so that if you do need to hire an attorney later on, they can easily pick up where we left off.

Consultations and Referrals

If you’re unsure whether you need an attorney, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. We can discuss your specific situation and determine the best course of action for your divorce. If you decide that you do need an attorney, we can provide referrals to reputable lawyers in Santa Clarita without any obligation on your part.

Our goal is to help you navigate this challenging time with as little stress as possible. Whether you decide to work with us or another attorney, we’re here to support you in any way we can.

Final Thoughts

Divorce can be a tough journey, but it doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. By understanding your options, you can make informed decisions about how to proceed. Many couples find success in representing themselves or using document preparation services, saving both time and money.

If you think you might need an attorney or you’re unsure where to start, give us a call. We’re here to help guide you through the process and ensure you have the information you need to make the best decisions for your future.

For more information, visit our website at divorce661.com or call us at 661-281-0266. We look forward to speaking with you soon!

 

What Should You Ask Your San Fernando Valley Divorce Paralegal | San Fernando Valley Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

What Should You Ask Your San Fernando Valley Divorce Paralegal

When it comes to navigating the often tumultuous waters of divorce, choosing the right support can make all the difference. Whether you’re considering hiring an attorney or a paralegal firm, or even a licensed document preparation service, it’s crucial to ask the right questions to ensure you’re making a wise decision. In this blog, we’ll explore essential questions to ask and factors to consider when selecting your divorce paralegal or document preparation service.

The Importance of Research

Before you hand over your hard-earned money, it’s vital to conduct thorough research on the company you’re considering. This is not just about picking a name out of a hat; it’s about finding a legitimate service that will meet your needs effectively. A recent experience with a client from San Diego highlighted the importance of this investigation. She came prepared with tough questions, and I appreciated her diligence.

Ask About Licensing and Bonding

One of the first things you should inquire about is whether the firm is licensed and bonded. This is crucial for your protection. A licensed company is more likely to adhere to legal standards and provide reliable service. Ask for physical proof of their licensing and bonding status. If they hesitate or cannot provide this information, consider it a red flag.

Inquire About Experience

Experience matters. You want to know how long the company has been in business. A well-established firm will have a track record that you can review. Ask about their experience specifically in divorce document preparation. Companies that have been around for a while will likely have handled various cases and can navigate the complexities of divorce more effectively than newer companies.

Look for Reviews and Testimonials

Before making a final decision, check online reviews and testimonials. Google the name of the company or the individual you’re considering. Look for feedback on sites like Yelp, where clients share their experiences. A company with consistently high ratings is a good sign. Conversely, if you see a pattern of negative feedback, it’s best to steer clear.

Understanding the Risks

Unfortunately, not all companies operate ethically. There are numerous businesses in the Los Angeles area that claim to provide divorce services but are not legitimate. Some are conducting business illegally, while others may simply be unqualified. I often receive calls from individuals who have been taken advantage of by such companies, leading to frustration and wasted money.

Common Pitfalls

Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

  • No physical address: If the company doesn’t have a physical office, that’s a major red flag. Legitimate businesses will have a publicly listed address.
  • Unprofessional communication: Pay attention to how they communicate. If they are evasive or unprofessional, it might indicate a lack of legitimacy.
  • Pressure tactics: Be wary of companies that pressure you to sign contracts or make payments quickly. Legitimate firms will allow you time to make informed decisions.
  • High upfront fees: While some fees are normal, excessive upfront costs can be a warning sign. Ensure you understand what you’re paying for and why.

Questions to Ask Your Potential Paralegal

When you’re interviewing a potential divorce paralegal, here are some questions you should consider asking:

  1. What is your process for document preparation? Understanding their workflow will give you insight into their efficiency and thoroughness.
  2. Can you provide references from past clients? A reputable firm will have no problem providing references or testimonials.
  3. What are your fees, and how are they structured? Be clear about payment structures to avoid unexpected costs later.
  4. How do you handle communication with clients? Find out how often you can expect updates and through which channels.
  5. What happens if there are issues with my documents? Understanding their process for addressing problems is crucial.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a divorce paralegal or document preparation service requires careful thought and consideration. It’s essential to do your homework and ask the tough questions. In my experience, many clients who come to me have been misled or poorly served by other companies. This can lead to a lot of stress and anxiety during an already challenging time.

If you have any questions or want to share your experiences with hiring a divorce service, feel free to reach out. I’m here to help and provide guidance based on my years of experience in the field. Remember, the right support can make a world of difference in your divorce journey. Don’t hesitate to contact me directly at 661-281-0266 for more information.

In conclusion, ensure you choose wisely. Your peace of mind is worth the effort you put into finding the right divorce paralegal.

 

How to Prepare a Hybrid Divorce Judgment in Santa Clarita | Santa Clarita Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

How to Prepare a Hybrid Divorce Judgment in Santa Clarita

Hi there! I’m Tim Blankenship, the owner of SCV Legal Doc Assist, a licensed and bonded legal document preparation firm. We specialize exclusively in the divorce process, and today, we’re diving into the ins and outs of filing a hybrid divorce judgment. If you’ve been following along, we’re now at step four of our series on preparing your divorce forms. Let’s get started!

Understanding Hybrid Judgment

A hybrid judgment is an option you can utilize when you’re dealing with a situation where your spouse has not filed a response to the divorce petition. However, there is a written agreement in place. This scenario allows you to proceed with what the court refers to as a “default case,” but with the added component of a written agreement between both parties. Essentially, this type of judgment acts as a bridge between a true default case and an uncontested divorce.

In a hybrid judgment, even though the respondent hasn’t filed a response, they can still enter into a written agreement. This means that the petitioner must attach this signed agreement to the proposed judgment along with all other necessary forms. The key here is that it is still considered a default case, but with a written agreement in place, hence the term “hybrid judgment.”

Forms Needed for a Hybrid Divorce Judgment

Now, let’s take a closer look at the specific forms you’ll need when filing a hybrid divorce judgment. It’s crucial to have everything in order to ensure your judgment is accepted by the court. Here’s a list of the essential forms:

  • Proof of Service of Summons: This form shows that the other party was properly served with the divorce papers.
  • Request to Enter Default: This is necessary since you are proceeding by default due to the lack of a response.
  • UCCJA (Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act) Form: If there are children involved, this form must be included as it outlines the jurisdiction regarding child custody matters.
  • Declaration Regarding Service: This form verifies that the other party was served with the necessary documents.
  • Preliminary Declaration of Disclosure: Even though the other party didn’t respond, they still need to prepare and serve their financial disclosures.
  • Final Declaration of Disclosure: In many cases, you can waive this, but it’s important to know the requirements.
  • FL-180 (Judgment Form): This is the main judgment form that summarizes your divorce agreement.
  • Notice of Entry of Judgment: This form gives notice to both parties that the judgment has been entered.
  • Self-Addressed Envelopes: You’ll need two, one for yourself and one for the other party, to send out the judgment paperwork.

If children are involved, there will be additional forms required to address custody and visitation agreements, as well as any spousal support arrangements. It’s important to ensure that all relevant forms are included to avoid any delays or rejections from the court.

Preparing Your Documentation

When you’re preparing your documents for submission, it’s a good practice to have at least three copies of each document: the original and two copies. This ensures that you have a signed copy for yourself and one for the other party once the judgment is filed. The court will keep the original and one copy, so make sure everything is organized and in order.

One tip I always recommend is to make it as easy as possible for the court clerk to process your judgment. By providing a complete set of documents and adhering to the proper format, you minimize the chances of having your judgment returned for corrections. It’s all about making their job easier, which, in turn, makes your process smoother.

Additional Considerations

When filing for a hybrid judgment, you’ll want to ensure that all the forms are filled out correctly and completely. Incomplete or incorrect forms can lead to delays or rejections. If you’re unsure about the process, consider seeking assistance from a professional document preparation service. We specialize in this area and can help ensure that everything is completed accurately.

Another important aspect to consider is the timelines involved. Once you submit your paperwork, there will be a waiting period for the court to process your documents. It’s essential to stay on top of this and follow up if necessary to ensure everything is moving along as it should. Keeping a checklist of your submitted forms and their status can be incredibly helpful in this regard.

Conclusion

Filing a hybrid divorce judgment can be a straightforward process if you have all the necessary forms and follow the correct procedures. Remember, a hybrid judgment allows you to finalize your divorce even if your spouse has not responded, as long as there’s a written agreement in place. By preparing your documentation carefully and ensuring that everything is in order, you can help facilitate a smoother process.

If you have any questions or need assistance with preparing your divorce forms, don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact us at SCV Legal Doc Assist or visit our website for more information. We’re here to help you navigate this challenging process with ease.

Thanks for reading, and best of luck with your hybrid divorce judgment!

 

Reseda CA Divorce Paralegal Service

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

Reseda CA Divorce Paralegal Service

Today we are talking to the folks in Reseda California in the San Fernando Valley.

We’re a licensed and bonded legal document preparation firm specializing in divorce.

And in this article, I’m going to talk to you about why we are your best option for getting through your divorce. We’re going to help you through your entire case from start to finish for a low flat fee.

As I have stated, we are a licensed and bonded in the Los Angeles County area and we specialize only in divorce. We are full service firm, which means we’re going to care of your entire case from start to finish.

That means filling out the forms, take them down to court, filing them, serving them, all financial disclosures and preparing your final judgment because we are full service, we’ll also help you establish child support, spousal support, custody, visitation, everything you need to get through the divorce process.

It’s not just forms as people think it is. It’s much more difficult to get through the process on your own than it has been in the past and we have everything that you would need. Everything the courts have, everything the attorneys have to help you get through the process.

And because we are a full service, we’ll go down the court for you, file all your forms. This is something where you will be able to go on with your life and not have to think about the process, procedure, what I do next, we take care of all that.

The good news is also, you won’t have to do anything, you won’t have to go to court and we are less expensive than any online solution you may find. Some people look online and they find folks offering low cost prices online and I want to talk to you a little bit about that.

These online service providers basically lure you in with the low cost upfront but it doesn’t include any filing fees. None of the filing fees are included in there and what happens is you have to pay the filing fees twice when you use an online service or any other legal service out there because they’re not familiar with the process.

We specialize only in divorce. We understand the process. I’ve worked for the courts in the past. There’s a way to get through this with a single filing fee and we can save you money on your divorce.

And we’re going to do all the work.

So let me just give you a little bit of math here. If you use an online service provider and let’s say they charge you $300, and that sounds like a great price as they lure people in all the time on that.

You’re going to have to fill out a long questionnaire. They’re going to get the forms all sent to you in a single stack, and then you’re going to have to figure out what to do and read their twenty-page explanation on what to do next.

You’re going to have to go to court, file the forms, serve the forms, do all the work, you’re going to have the other party, in this case, your spouse, obviously, is going to have to do the same thing.

You’re going to have to go down, file a response, serve the papers on you. You guys are going to go back and forth through this – all the way through it. It’s not an easy process.

So you had your $300 fee, and you’re going to have to file $435 currently in LA County, and then, what the instructions will tell you to do is that your spouse has to file a response and pay another $435.

A lot of people do not know that they have to pay another fee. Now, your $870 plus the $300 now you’re at $1170 and you have to do all the work. I just want to make that clear.

You have to go down the court multiple times. File, serve, all that. You’ve already completed this long questionnaire. It’s a lot of work, and then you have to prepare your judgment. You have to make four, five copies of everything. It’s a big deal.

With us, we are less than the total cost, that $1170, we are less than that. We are going to do everything for you. We put in to thought every form there’s no questionnaires, nothing. You go on with your life, we take care of everything and it’s less than any other online service or paralegal service out there. So please give us a call.

Now, here in Reseda, our main office is in Valencia. You do not have to come to our office. We do a lot of what we do right over the phone. We have clients all throughout Los Angeles County, in fact, we have clients all throughout California.

Please give me a call. 661-281-0266. Go to our website, divorce661.com. We have hundreds of videos, podcasts, tutorials, self-help videos. We even are on iTunes at divorce master radio and on Stitcher Radio. So, if you’re on to podcasting you can find us there. We’ve done some interviews and we talk a lot about the divorce process in California.

Please give me a call. We’d love to help you to your divorce process. 661-281-0266

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.