3699 Wilshire Blvd. Ste 700, Los Angeles, CA 90010 Mon-Fri 9am-6pm +1-213-387-4508
3699 Wilshire Blvd. Ste 700, Los Angeles, CA 90010 Mon-Fri 9am-6pm +1-213-387-4508

Los Angeles Divorce Lawyers

Expert Family Law Representation

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CMG Badge 202426 yrs Experience

Family Law Attorney Specialist CertifiedCertified Specialist

CPA Tax Family Law AttorneyFormer CPA

Fdivorce Attorney Specialist Certified

CMG Badge 2024

los angeles divorce lawyer

Choosing the Right Los Angeles Divorce Attorney for Your Family Law Needs

You deserve the top legal representation and divorce firm of  Charles M. Green, APLC. Led by the highly skilled courtroom lawyer and Certified California Family Law Specialist, Charles M. Green. Our firm brings a rare blend of talented legal expertise and deep financial insight to your family law issue. With over 26 years of dedicated legal experience with California divorce cases and a unique background as a CPA, Charles M. Green stands out as a family law attorney of exceptional caliber.

Our team at Charles M. Green, APLC, brings together a seamless blend of keen financial insight and formidable legal expertise, uniquely equipping us to guide you through the complexities of divorce and other areas of family law. We are dedicated to helping clients in Los Angeles County who are ready to move forward in life with the strongest footing possible. Our organized method and efficient communication ensure that every aspect of your case is handled with precision, paving the way for a future built on solid ground. Make us the best of your legal options for a Los Angeles divorce lawyer.

Essential Information on Divorce Laws in California and How a Divorce Lawyer Can Help

Caring and highly experienced attorneys are here to help those moving forward into the next stage of your life.
Divorce Lawyer

26 yrs Experience

Unparalleled experience in and outside the courtroom. 

Divorce Lawyer

CPA Experience

Financial expertise as a Former CPA to ensure all you and your family’s assets are protected.

Divorce Lawyer

Skilled Courtroom Lawyer

Bringing keen financial insight and formidable legal expertise to your case.

Your Family Law Team

Highly experienced attorneys to help you through your marriage dissolution and any issue in California Family Court.
los angeles divorce lawyer

Charles M. Green , APLC

Founder, Principal Attorney

divorce attorney los angeles

Diana O. Olanipekun

Experienced Associate Attorney

spanish language paralegal

Fabiana Piroyansky

Paralegal

What Our Clients Are Saying

 
  • Charles and his team might be small but they get the job done! As a small business owner, I was worried about what my financial footing would be and how it would affect my livelihood moving forward. Charles was always available and assured me through each step of the divorce process, ensuring that my business and personal assets were being protected. Charles’ consistent communication and attention to financial detail made me feel confident and well-represented. I highly recommend their legal services for any Los Angeles family.

    Juanita R.
    Small Business Owner
  • This firm went above and beyond to make sure my property division case was handled efficiently and fairly. As someone in the entertainment industry, I had a mix of assets and income sources that I was worried about. Charles is sharp!  What was complex for me to grasp, he understood and explained with ease. He made the process much smoother than I anticipated. I highly recommend his divorce lawye services to anyone going through a divorce that may have complex asset division issues.

    David K.
    Entertainment Professional
  • Charles’ Los Angeles divorce office provided me with the guidance and support I needed during my divorce. As a single mother, I was concerned about how my case would impact my children’s future. The Charles and Diana took the time to understand my situation and worked hard to achieve the outcome I was looking for.. I feel Charles’ sincerity and dedication to detail made a huge difference in the outcome, and I am incredibly grateful for their help. I couldn’t have picked better Los Angeles divorce lawyers.

    Samantha T.
    Mother and Business Owner
  • When I decided to divorce, I knew my case would involve a substantial amount of assets and a variety of financial issues. Charles’ team was thorough and professional. Charles has a natural attention to detail that made me feel confident about situation. I’m extremely happy with the results. I would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone in need of a family court attorney. Even more specifically, to anyone who might have particular business assets needing special attention.

    Michael L.
    Tech Industry Startup
  • “Everyone in the office was extremely friendly. They helped me get through a difficult period in my life quickly, easily, and without a ton of financial strain. I can honestly say that I would recommend Mr. Green’s team to anyone searching for good divorce lawyers.”

    Kat C.
    Client
  • Mr. Green’s team was outstanding to say the least. Not only are they professional but they are also genuinely caring people. I consider myself very blessed to have scored such a great Los Angeles divorce attorney. Thanks Charles!

    Andrew W.
    Client
  • “I highly recommend Mr. Green and his office for their divorce representation services. They were a pleasure to work with. Made a difficult divorce situation a breeze! Fabiana (the legal assistant) is great! She’s always on top of everything! Thanks again for everything!”

    Laurie E.
    Client
Our Practice Areas

Dissolution of Marriage (Divorce) Overview

Under California Family Code § 2300, outlines the legal framework for the dissolution of marriage, allowing married individuals to return to a single status. This section of the law sets the foundation for the divorce process in California, marking the official end of a marriage and thereby altering the legal rights and responsibilities of the individuals involved. It provides the legal basis for couples who want to dissolve their marriage, providing a transition back to single/ unmarried status under the state’s legal system.

The repercussions of divorce on property entitlements have become a staple for tabloids in numerous high-profile celebrity divorces. Furthermore, its influence on parental and visitation rights has been highlighted amidst acrimonious custody disputes, leading to the perception of divorce as an inherently distressing ordeal within family law. At Charles M. Green, APLC, we understand the emotional complexities of divorce. The attorneys at our law firm apply strategic yet compassionate advocacy administering legal help. We aim to give legal options that shield our clients and their loved ones from potential trauma and ensure a transition that is as favorable and harmonious as possible.

 

Residency Requirements for a Dissolution

To initiate a divorce in California, at least one spouse must have been a resident of the state for a minimum of six months and of the county where the divorce is filed for three months preceding the filing.

However, the residency prerequisites differ for legal separations domestic partnerships and other types of relationships:

  • Legal Separation: There is no waiting period for filing a legal separation in California. If one spouse resides in California, they may file immediately. Should the need arise, the petition for legal separation can be amended to a divorce petition once the residency requirements for divorce are met.

  • Same-Sex Couples: Same-sex couples who married in California but currently reside in a jurisdiction that does not recognize or grant divorces for same-sex couples can still file for divorce in the California county where they were married. While the court can dissolve the marriage, its authority to rule on related matters like property division, spousal support, or child custody may be limited. It is advisable to consult with a legal professional for detailed advice.

  • Domestic Partnership: For a domestic partnership registered in California, the residency requirement for divorce does not apply. The court can terminate the partnership but might be limited in its ability to make decisions regarding property, support, or children if neither partner meets the residency criteria. On the other hand, if the partnership is not registered in California, the standard residency requirement for divorce applies.

Understanding these nuances is crucial, the attorneys at the firm of Charles M. Green, APLC navigate these legal waters and represent our clients with unique skill and personal attention. Whether a contested or uncontested divorce, our approach is designed to protect your interests and minimize the emotional and legal strain of the process, ensuring that your rights are upheld and your voice heard.

 

California’s  “No-fault” Divorce Law

In the state of California, the law embraces a “No Fault” approach to divorce, signifying that the spouse seeking a divorce isn’t required to prove any wrongdoing by their partner. Typically, divorces are filed on the grounds of “irreconcilable differences,” a term that simply implies the spouses can no longer coexist in harmony.

The law in California maintains a neutral stance on marital misconduct such as infidelity. Engaging in an affair won’t subject one parent a spouse to penalties in terms of asset division or the obligation to provide increased financial support during the divorce proceedings.

Within the divorce process, the spouse initiating the action is designated as the “Petitioner,” while the other spouse is referred to as the “Respondent.” While there is no inherent legal benefit to being the first to file for divorce, certain situations may present a strategic advantage in taking this initial step. It’s essential to consult with a knowledgeable attorney to understand the potential implications of filing first in a divorce case. The attorneys at Charles M. Green, APLC law firm can provide expert guidance to ensure that any actions you take are strategically sound and aligned with your best interests.

Types of  Dissolution Cases 

 

Uncontested Divorce:

An uncontested divorce settlement is the most straightforward and amicable option. Both spouses agree on all key issues such as, but not limited to, property division, child custody, alimony, and child support, without the need for court intervention.

As an option, uncontested divorce is suitable when both parties are willing to cooperate, communicate openly, and reach a mutual agreement on all divorce-related matters.

 

Contested Divorce:

In a contested divorce, spouses cannot agree on one or more aspects of their divorce, such as property division, child custody, or support. These disputes often require court intervention and legal proceedings.

When spouses are unable to reach a consensus on crucial issues, a contested divorce is necessary. It typically involves negotiation, mediation, or litigation to resolve disagreements.

 

Default:

Description: A default divorce occurs when one spouse files for divorce, and the other party does not respond within the specified time frame. The court may proceed with the divorce based on the filing spouse’s terms.

Default divorce is an option when one party is unresponsive or uncooperative but can also result from genuine unawareness of the divorce proceedings.

 

Summary Dissolution:

Summary dissolution is a simplified divorce process available to couples with very few assets, no children, and a short marriage. It streamlines the divorce process and involves fewer paperwork requirements.

Couples seeking a summary dissolution must meet specific criteria, including a marriage duration of five years or less, limited joint assets and debts, and no children from the marriage.

 

High-Net Worth

Common for Business owners, High-asset divorce cases involve intricate financial considerations and require specialized legal representation to adequately protect financial interests. These cases often include the division of businesses, professional practices, real estate portfolios, stock options, and other significant investments, which demand a sophisticated understanding of both legal and financial strategies. Charles M. Green also has a unique distinction amongst attorneys, he is a former accomplished CPA for prominent New York and Los Angeles accounting firms.

 

LGBTQ

LGBTQ divorces, while legally akin to heterosexual separations, often involve distinct considerations like marriage recognition, child custody, and pre-marriage asset division. A knowledgeable attorney in LGBTQ family law is essential to address these specific needs, ensuring equitable treatment and protection of rights for all involved.

 

Legal Separation:

Legal separation allows spouses to live separately and formalize their separation agreement legally. It addresses issues like spousal, child support, and property division without ending the marriage.

Legal separation is an option when couples want to remain married for personal, religious, or insurance reasons but no longer wish to live together.

Choosing the right type of divorce in California depends on your unique circumstances and willingness to cooperate with your spouse. Call us today to get your case evaluation and ensure that your divorce and family process aligns with your specific needs and goals.

Navigating Property and Marriage Concerns with a Skilled Divorce Attorney in Los Angeles

divorce attorney helping

The division of property during a divorce is a complex and often contentious issue in California, where community property laws mandate an equal split of marital assets and debts. This includes everything earned or acquired during the marriage and any debts incurred together.

The date of separation is an important line, marking the boundary between what is considered community property and what is deemed separate, affecting how assets and debts accumulated afterward are classified. To navigate these complexities, especially in high-stake divorces, the expertise of appraisers, forensic accountants family law attorneys, and business valuators is frequently required to ensure an accurate valuation of the marital estate.

Call for a Consultation Today