Family Law
Miles T. Goldrick, Lawyer helps clients in the Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo tri-county area in all aspects of family law, including dissolution of marriage (divorce) and separation, as well as domestic violence matters and paternity. As an experienced solo practitioner, Miles offers personalized representation in all of the following areas:
- Dissolution of Marriage / Divorce
- Legal Separation
- Community Property
- Spousal Support / Alimony
- Custody and Visitation
- Child Support
- Pre-Nuptial and Post-Nuptial Agreements
- Modification of Orders
- Domestic Violence Restraining Orders
- Paternity
Dissolution of Marriage in California
California is a no-fault dissolution state, meaning that either spouse may petition to dissolve his or her marriage at any time. Dissolution proceedings involve the resolution of all issues related to the termination of the marriage, such as division of property, custody of any children, and any regular financial support needed for children or a former spouse. The dissolution is final after all of the issues are resolved, or with the court's permission, six months after the petition for dissolution was served.
Community Property
Community property refers to any assets acquired or income earned during the marriage, except for property acquired by only one spouse through a gift or inheritance. Upon dissolution of a marriage, community property is divided equally between the former spouses. Thus, the main issues in property division are the characterization of each asset as either community property or separate property, and the proper valuation of each community asset.
Pre-Nuptial and Post-Nuptial Agreements
Pre nuptial agreements allow future spouses and post nuptial agreements allow spouses to specify how their property will be divided in the event of a divorce, separation or death, and may include provisions regarding spousal support and other matters. Pre nuptial and post nuptial agreements may also allow couples to opt-out of some aspects of California community property law.
Modification of Orders
Even years after a dissolution of marriage has been resolved, events may transpire that affect the terms of a dissolution agreement. When circumstances change, a party can petition for a post-judgment modification. For example, a post-judgment custody modification may be appropriate if one parent wishes to move out of state with the child, or a spousal support order may be modified if the spouse receiving support becomes self-sufficient.
Domestic Violence Restraining Orders
Acts of domestic violence can have repercussions in dissolution and custody proceedings, but they can also require legal proceedings of their own. If you feel unsafe or threatened, Miles can help you obtain a restraining order to prevent or stop any abuse.
Paternity
Paternity suits are actions brought with the goal of establishing a legal parental relationship. These actions often arise when the parents were never married and the mother needs to enforce support obligations or the father wants to establish his parental rights. Paternity actions can be filed by the mother, the alleged father, or occasionally by the district attorney's office.
Experienced Family Law Attorney
Whether you have decided to end your marriage, are involved in a domestic dispute, or wish to enforce your parental rights, Miles can help. If you live in Santa Barbara or the tri-county area, Contact Miles T. Goldrick, Lawyer for personal service from a hometown attorney.