Clovis Divorce Lawyer

Clovis Divorce Attorney

Every relationship has rough patches, but for some, there is no other option than to dissolve the marriage by filing for divorce. For most, this is a stressful process that depends greatly on the attitude of each spouse throughout the process. Even in the most agreeable divorce case, it can be beneficial to hire a Clovis divorce lawyer, like Brian N. Chase of Chase Family Law.

Hire a Divorce Lawyer in Clovis, CA

In Fresno County, which includes Clovis, about 9.1% of adults are divorced. Local attorney Brian N. Chase has over 30 years of experience handling divorce cases. He combines his compassion and tenacity in his clients’ divorce cases. Not only does he have the experience you want in a divorce lawyer, he’s one of the few family lawyers who is a Certified Family Law Specialist by the State Bar of California Board of Specialization.

Brian N. Chase of Chase Family Law uses that knowledge and experience to advocate for you during your Clovis divorce cases.

Types of Divorce Cases

Your first big decision about your divorce, after you hire a divorce lawyer, is what approach you and your divorce attorney want to take. Depending on your case, the cost and timeline can vary widely:

Summary Dissolution

A summary dissolution is the easiest and cheapest way to file for divorce in California. The joint petition filing fee is $435 to $450 per person. This option comes with strict eligibility requirements. Both people need to be in agreement to waive spousal support at the time of filing and in the future.

Additionally, there can’t be minor children involved, nor real estate. The marriage must be less than five years old, and there can only be minimal community property and separate assets involved.

DIY Uncontested Divorce

If you and your spouse agree in every aspect of your case but don’t meet the requirements for a summary dissolution, an uncontested—or DIY divorce—is another option. This approach allows couples to prepare and file their own paperwork with the court, provided they remain cooperative.

Although this option has the potential to reduce expenses compared with other forms of divorce, you will still need to pay basic court filing and service fees. It is vital that couples considering this option consult with a divorce attorney to review all documents to ensure legal compliance and make sure they are submitted on time.

Mediation

For couples seeking a cooperative approach, mediation offers a structured way to resolve disputes outside of court. A neutral third party, such as a mediator or family law attorney, facilitates discussions on issues like child custody, spousal support, and property division.

Mediation allows couples to retain more control over the outcome and can save time and stress compared to traditional litigation. It may also help preserve a more amicable relationship after divorce, especially when children are involved.

Collaborative Divorce

If both spouses want to avoid court but prefer individual legal representation, a collaborative divorce may be appropriate. In this model, each person works with their own attorney and, when needed, neutral financial or mental-health professionals. Everyone involved commits to resolving matters through open communication rather than courtroom conflict. When the process succeeds, it often results in tailored agreements and a more respectful transition out of marriage.

Litigation

When couples cannot reach an agreement, litigation becomes necessary. In this traditional approach, each side presents their case before a judge, who ultimately decides how to divide assets, assign custody, or determine support.

Litigation can be more time-consuming and emotionally taxing than other options, but it provides a definitive ruling when cooperation is not possible. An experienced divorce lawyer in Clovis can guide you through the divorce process to help ensure that your rights are protected.

FAQs About Clovis, CA Divorce Laws

How Much Do Most Divorce Lawyers Charge in Fresno County?

How much a divorce lawyer charges in Fresno County depends primarily on their hourly rate, which can vary depending on their experience, reputation, and location. Divorce attorneys in bigger cities often charge more than those in the suburbs, like Clovis, might charge. The complexity of your divorce case can also impact the cost of your divorce lawyer because it may require more hours of work, increasing the final cost.

How Much Does an Average Divorce Cost in Total in Clovis?

The average total cost for a divorce in California depends on the type of divorce you choose to file for, plus the hourly fee for your attorney and the mandatory foundational fees. The unavoidable costs, like court filing fees, process server fees, and administrative fees, are legally required. Your divorce attorney can advise you further on how much your divorce is expected to cost.

What Is the 5 Year Rule in California Divorce Laws?

The 5-year rule in California divorce laws can refer to two different stipulations in your divorce: a summary dissolution or a case dismissal. A summary dissolution is for shorter marriages that are less than 5 years old. This can be a faster and cheaper option for couples who agree. A case dismissal may happen if the case hasn’t been brought to trial within 5 years of the original filing date.

What Is a Wife Entitled to in a Divorce in California?

A wife in California is potentially entitled to half of the marital assets (the assets gained during the marriage), and 40% of the spouse’s income to cover child support, spousal support, and other specifics of the settlement. Child support is owed to the primary parent to provide for the child’s needs. Wives who are granted child custody are generally entitled to child support. The best interest of the child is the primary concern for family courts.

Reach Out to a Clovis Divorce Attorney Today

After you and your partner decide to end your marriage, Brian N. Chase is there to help. Whichever type of divorce approach you and your partner choose, Brian N. Case of Chase Family Law can help you secure your assets and collect what you are owed. Learn how we can help with your divorce by contacting us today.