Redondo Beach Divorce Law

Cooperation is essential for a smooth divorce but unfortunately this is not always the case. Divorcing spouses are often at battle with each other for child custody, child support, spousal support, and of course property. Redondo Beach family lawyers are knowledgeable when it comes to all aspects of property division laws. In a divorce, assets and debts are divided between the divorcing spouses. Some couples may choose to divide the property themselves without taking matters to court. However, if the couple cannot come to an agreement, they will have to submit their dispute to the court and adhere to property division laws set forth by the state.

In the U.S., property is divided by the courts under two schemes: community property and equitable distribution. California, Alaska, Idaho, Louisiana, Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin are community property states. This means that the property of a married person is either classified as community property (both spouses own the property equally) or separate property (property is owned by only one spouse).  For example, when a couple in California divorces, community property is generally split equally between the spouses while each spouse gets to keep his or her separate property. A Redondo Beach family law attorney can provide detail information on the specific property laws that apply to California divorces.

All other states follow the equitable distribution scheme where property that is accumulated during a marriage is divided fairly, but not necessarily equally between the two spouses. Courts may even ask one spouse to surrender his or her separate property to make the settlement fair for both parties.  Regardless of what state you live in, it is always a good idea to do research and get expert advice from a reputable family lawyer about property division.