Lemoore Divorce Lawyer

Lemoore Divorce Attorney

Going through a divorce can be a very difficult period in your life. Depending on your circumstances, you may be concerned about property division or custody arrangements. Having a strong legal team on your side can make for an easier legal process. A Lemoore divorce lawyer can explain California’s divorce laws and how they apply to your situation.

Chase Family Law has helped thousands of families over the last 30 years in Lemoore. Our team understands how sensitive family law cases are. We can provide you with the representation you need to move forward.

Divorce in California

According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Survey, divorce rates are rising in the United States. Despite this, California remains one of the states with the lowest divorce rates in the country, with only 5.88 women divorced per 1,000 surveyed.

Part of this decline is due to fewer people marrying for fewer years and couples waiting longer to get married. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the average age for men marrying in 2025 was 31, and women were 29, which is the highest age ever reported since they began surveying in 1890. As societal norms shift and fewer people are choosing to get married, it can have a big impact on divorce rates in the state.

Filing for Divorce in California

When a couple separates and chooses to divorce, California does not require proof that someone did something wrong within the marriage. This is called a no-fault divorce. Divorce can even be granted if the other person is opposed. To file for divorce in California, either you or your spouse must have lived in California for the past six months and in your filing county for the past three months.

When you hire a divorce lawyer, they can assist you by filing the summons and petition for divorce at the Superior Court of California, County of Kings, which will then be served to the other party. California requires a minimum of six months to pass prior to the marriage being legally terminated. This period is in place to allow both parties to reflect on their marriage and separation in case they seek to withdraw their divorce petition.

This period also allows time for the couple, with the assistance of their legal team, to settle matters such as:

• Child custody and parenting plans
• Alimony or spousal support
• Property valuation and the division of debts and assets
• Child support

Most of these matters can be settled outside the courtroom through negotiation and mediation, ideally, with the assistance of your attorney.

Why Do People Choose to Divorce in California?

All relationships are unique, and the reason why a couple chooses to separate can be just as unique. Nevertheless, certain reasons contribute to divorces in California.

Money-related issues are one of the top reasons why couples seek divorce. Financial problems can cause significant strain on a marriage and lead to many disagreements, which can be hard to move past. Lack of commitment and infidelity are other leading causes for divorce in America.

Irrevocable differences in parental styles or overall values are other issues that are very difficult for couples to move past. When values change, and people grow older, their goals and priorities in life also change, making it difficult to align with their partner if they do not choose the same values. Similarly, when parenting styles are different, it can cause a strain on the relationship that cannot be repaired.

No matter the reason you have for seeking divorce, our team at Chase Family Law can be at your side throughout your case. We believe that every divorce case deserves its own individualized attention and strategy. We can work toward the most favorable outcomes for our clients.

FAQs About Divorce Law

What Is the Average Cost of a Divorce Lawyer in California?

The cost of a divorce lawyer in Lemoore, California can vary greatly. Uncontested divorces are generally more affordable, while complex cases involving custody or property division may require more legal assistance and cost more. Most attorneys in California charge an hourly rate, and fees often depend on the lawyer’s experience and location.

If your divorce involves minor children, multiple assets, significant debts, or businesses that require valuation, it may require more time and money to resolve.

What Are the 3 C’s of Divorce?

The 3 C’s of divorce are communication, cooperation, and compromise. Incorporating these principles can make the process smoother, especially when minor children are involved. By focusing on respectful communication and collaboration, many issues can be resolved without entering the courtroom.

The more a couple can cooperate and focus on open communication and compromise, the better the outcome can be for both parties. Through their attorneys’ counsel, most couples can agree to parenting plans and asset divisions that work for everyone.

What Happens to Retirement Accounts in a Divorce in California?

During a California divorce, retirement accounts earned during the marriage are considered community property, so they are typically divided 50/50. Any contributions made before marriage or after separation are considered separate property.

Your Lemoore divorce attorney can offer guidance on how to divide these retirement accounts. Options for division include dividing the account, offsetting with other assets, or waiting until retirement to pay out.

What Is the Difference Between Divorce and Legal Separation?

The greatest difference between divorce and legal separation is that divorce terminates the marriage permanently, while legal separation is a court-ordered arrangement that divides property and assets and enforces custody arrangements, but the couple remains legally married.

Legal separation allows spouses to retain health insurance, military benefits, or Social Security benefits that would otherwise be terminated after a divorce. Some couples may choose legal separation over divorce for moral or religious reasons.

Hire a Divorce Lawyer

Navigating divorce can be very troubling as you try to find your way alone. Between coming up with a parenting plan and figuring out how to support yourself, it all can be overwhelming. That is where we can help. At Chase Family Law, our lawyer has represented thousands of people seeking divorce and found solutions that work for them. Contact us today to learn more.