Most Californians will need a family law attorney or advice regarding a family law matter at some point in their lives. If you find yourself facing a family law issue, the Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C. can help – no matter the complexity.
Our team of family law attorneys handles every aspect of Petaluma family law, from prenuptial agreements and divorce to adoption and parentage. Call or contact our office online today to speak with attorneys who are:
- Practical and knowledgeable advisors;
- Compassionate and empathetic listeners; and
- Strategic negotiators and experienced courtroom litigators.
How Our Petaluma Family Law Attorneys Can Help You
The family law attorneys at the Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C. stand beside you throughout any family-related legal matter from start to finish. We strive to meet your family law goals and expectations while doing the following and more on your behalf:
- Preparing and drafting any legal documents, whether they are stand-alone or court-related;
- Acting as negotiators to settle disputes outside of court when possible;
- Working with you to create manageable child custody arrangements;
- Correctly calculating state child support payments; and
- Representing you in courtroom disputes, including trials, when needed.
Reach out to the Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C. for help resolving your family law disputes. We will use our more than thirty years of legal experience to navigate you through the family law process.
What Is Family Law?
Family law is the area of state civil law governing divorce, marriage, child custody, adoption, paternity, domestic violence, and other topics relating to the family unit. Navigating the complexities of California’s family law system regularly requires the assistance of an experienced attorney.
Marriage Laws in Petaluma
To marry in Petaluma, both parties must enter into the marriage of their own free will and have a clear understanding of the nature of their marriage. Both parties must also be eighteen years or older, have parental consent, and be of sound mind.
Couples must obtain a marriage license within ninety days of marriage and return a signed marriage certificate within ten days of their marriage ceremony.
Prenuptial Agreements in Petaluma
A prenuptial agreement is a contract spouses enter into before marriage. It defines property rights and duties during the marriage and in the event of a divorce or death. California prenuptial agreements must meet specific requirements to be upheld in court if challenged.
All California prenuptial agreements must be:
- In writing;
- Signed by both parties;
- Entered into voluntarily with complete knowledge and understanding of the terms of the agreement;
- Any terms cannot be unfair or too one-sided; and
- In some instances, a mandatory period of reflection may also apply.
Divorce in Petaluma
To file for a divorce in Petaluma, California, one spouse must be a resident of California for six months and live in the county where the divorce is filed for three months. There is a six-month waiting period to obtain a divorce in California without exception.
California is a community property state. This means all property and debts acquired during the marriage are subject to equal division by the court.
Child Support in Petaluma
Parents are legally responsible for the financial support of their children. In California, the family court follows a guideline when calculating child support orders. The formula is largely based on both parents’ income levels, and the amount of time each parent physically spends with their child.
Child support continues until a child:
- Turns eighteen and has graduated from high school;
- Turns nineteen; or
- Marries, passes away, or is legally emancipated.
The court can order parents to continue supporting a disabled adult child if that child cannot support themselves.
Contact an Experienced Petaluma Family Law Attorney
To discuss your family law matter with an experienced Petaluma family law attorney, contact the Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C. We will meet with you at your convenience to answer your questions and advise you of your next legal steps.
