Ending a marriage or domestic partnership is never easy, but understanding the legal process can make the transition far more manageable. Whether your divorce is amicable or high-conflict, California law provides clear procedures to help spouses separate fairly while protecting each person’s rights.

At M.C. Law, P.C., Attorney Mayasha Christian is dedicated to guiding clients through the divorce process with clarity, compassion, and strategic legal representation. Here’s what Los Angeles couples need to know about how divorce works in California.

California Offers Three Legal Paths to End a Marriage or Partnership

In California, couples may end their marital or registered domestic partnership in one of three ways:

1. Divorce (Dissolution of Marriage)

The most common method. Divorce legally ends the marriage and allows both spouses to remarry.

2. Legal Separation

Spouses remain legally married but live separate lives. This option may be chosen for financial, personal, or religious reasons.

3. Annulment

A marriage may be annulled if it was never legally valid from the start—for example, cases involving fraud, bigamy, incapacity, or coercion.

Attorney Christian helps clients determine which option best fits their circumstances and long-term goals.

California Is a “No-Fault” Divorce State

California does not require either spouse to prove wrongdoing or blame for the marriage ending. The most common legal ground is irreconcilable differences, meaning the relationship has broken down beyond repair.

This protects both spouses from needing to argue over who was “at fault,” allowing the case to focus on resolution rather than blame.

One Spouse Can Start the Divorce — the Other Cannot Stop It

In California, only one spouse needs to want the divorce. The other spouse does not have the legal right to stop the process.

If the responding spouse refuses to participate or ignores the paperwork, the court can finalize the divorce through a default judgment. This means the divorce will be granted even if one party does not respond.

This ensures no spouse is forced to remain in a marriage against their will.

Dissolution of Domestic Partnerships

Registered domestic partners follow the same process as married couples: divorce, legal separation, or annulment.

However, some couples may qualify for a summary dissolution through the Secretary of State if:

• The partnership is under five years
• There are no children
• The couple owns no real property
• Assets and debts are minimal
• The partners agree entirely on property and debt division

This streamlined process is faster and requires less court involvement.

Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce in California

Uncontested Divorce

An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses agree on all major issues, including:

• Property division
• Spousal support
• Child custody and visitation
• Child support
• Debt allocation

These cases typically move quickly and require less court involvement.

Contested Divorce

A contested divorce happens when spouses disagree on any issue, such as:

• Parenting time
• Division of assets
• Support payments
• Who keeps the home
• Allegations of abuse or financial misconduct

These cases often require mediation, negotiation, court hearings, or trial to resolve disputes.

Attorney Christian provides strong advocacy for clients facing contested divorces, ensuring their rights and interests remain protected.

Key Issues Decided During a California Divorce

Divorce often requires decisions about:

✔ Child Custody & Visitation

Courts prioritize the child’s best interest above all else.

✔ Child Support

Calculated based on income, parenting time, and California guidelines.

✔ Spousal Support (Alimony)

Temporary and permanent support may be awarded based on financial need and earning capacity.

✔ Property & Debt Division

California is a community property state, meaning most assets and debts acquired during the marriage are split equally.

✔ Domestic Violence Concerns

Protective orders and safety measures may affect custody and support.

M.C. Law, P.C. provides guidance across all aspects of the divorce process to help clients reach fair and stable outcomes.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Divorce can impact every part of your life—your finances, your children, your home, and your emotional well-being. Having skilled representation ensures:

• Your rights are protected
• Court deadlines and procedures are met
• Your financial future is safeguarded
• You avoid mistakes that could delay the process
• You negotiate from a position of strength
• You have a strategic advocate at every step

Attorney Mayasha Christian understands both the legal and emotional complexities of divorce and works tirelessly to guide clients toward resolution with confidence.

Speak With a Los Angeles Divorce Attorney Today

Whether your divorce is straightforward or complicated, you do not have to navigate it alone.