Divorce & Legal Separation Attorneys Serving San Diego
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Serving San Diego County Since 2010
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San Diego Divorce & Legal Separation Lawyers
Protecting Your Rights, Assets, and Future During Marriage Dissolution
Under California law, a divorce (formally termed a dissolution of marriage) is defined as a court order that effectively “restores the parties to the state of unmarried persons.”
If you are considering divorce or exploring a legal separation in San Diego, understanding your legal options is the first step toward regaining control of your future. Dissolving a marriage can be an emotionally intense experience or an amicably resolved process, depending on the goals and communication of each spouse. Whether you require aggressive court proceedings because you prefer minimal contact with your spouse, or you prefer the privacy and control of negotiated settlements, Hassett Family Law guides you through every step of the process.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
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Your Trusted Partner in Family Law
Understanding Divorce and Legal Separation in San Diego
Whether accomplished through courtroom litigation or collaborative mediation, both divorce and legal separation resolve the same core legal issues to conclude your marital relationship:
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Child Custody and Visitation -
Child and
Spousal Support -
Division of Assets and Debts
Choosing Your Path: Litigation vs. Mediation
No two couples navigate divorce the same way. Hassett Family Law offers flexible representation tailored to your unique dynamic:
1. Divorce Mediation & Collaborative Settlement
For couples seeking a private, less adversarial alternative, mediation allows both parties to work collaboratively to resolve property, support, and custody issues without setting foot in a courtroom. Our firm emphasizes settlement strategies that minimize conflict while protecting your rights and assets.
2. Strategic Divorce Litigation
When a spouse is uncooperative, hiding financial assets, or contesting child custody, court intervention becomes necessary. In litigation, our attorneys provide firm, authoritative representation before San Diego Family Court judges to secure binding protective and financial orders.
Legal Separation: A Strategic Alternative to Divorce
Under California law, the courts can issue binding judgments regarding property division, spousal support, and child custody through a legal separation without dissolving the marital status itself.
Couples frequently choose legal separation over divorce for specific legal and strategic reasons:
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Healthcare & Insurance Continuation: To allow a dependent spouse to remain covered under an employer’s health insurance plan.
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Residency Rule Workarounds: If you have not lived in California long enough to file for divorce, filing for legal separation allows you to secure immediate court orders for custody or temporary support.
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Religious or Personal Beliefs: For couples whose personal, cultural, or religious convictions preclude ending the marriage contract.
Note: Unlike a standard dissolution, California courts generally require the consent of both parties to grant a legal separation. Once state and county residency requirements are fulfilled, a legal separation case can easily be converted into a formal divorce proceeding.
We will be there to help you to stand up for your rights.
Guiding Families with Strength & Compassion
Why Choose Hassett Family Law?
Personal Attention, Tailored to You
Every family is unique. We understand your needs, offering customized solutions reflecting your specific situation and goals.
Compassionate Advocacy, Strong Results
Your family’s well-being is our priority. With compassion and strategy, we provide the support and advocacy needed to achieve the best outcome.
Integrity and Transparency in Every Case
We pride ourselves on honesty and transparency, ensuring you are fully informed and empowered throughout your family law journey.
Focused Experience in Family Law
We work exclusively in family law, offering deep knowledge and a personalized approach to navigate even the most complex family matters.
Your Family Law Advocates
MEET THE TEAM THAT PUTS FAMILIES FIRST
Lisa Hassett
Attorney & Principal
Derek Vosskuhler
Attorney, CFLS
Erik C. Jenkins
CFLS, Of Counsel
Key California Statutory Rules & Timelines
California Residency Requirements
To file for a dissolution of marriage in San Diego, specific jurisdictional timelines apply:
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The Six-Month State Rule: At least one spouse must have resided in California for at least six months prior to filing.
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The Three-Month County Rule: At least one spouse must have resided in San Diego County for at least three months prior to filing.
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Exceptions: These rules do not apply to legal separation petitions, nullity actions, or certain same-sex marriages performed in California where neither party currently lives in a state that recognizes same-sex dissolution.
The Mandatory Six-Month “Cooling Off” Period
In California, no divorce can be finalized until at least six months and one day have passed from the date the non-filing spouse is officially served with the summons and petition. While this mandatory waiting period takes effect, our attorneys secure temporary orders (Pendente Lite) for spousal support, child custody, and exclusive use of property to keep your household stable.
Special Dissolution Circumstances
Registered Domestic Partnerships & Same-Sex Divorce
Since 2003, registered domestic partners in California share the exact same legal rights, responsibilities, and community property rules as married spouses. Terminating a domestic partnership follows the same court channels as a traditional divorce. Our attorneys represent
Military Divorces in San Diego County
San Diego’s large military presence requires legal counsel familiar with unique federal regulations. Active-duty and retired service members face specific rules regarding pension division under the USFSPA, BAH housing allowances, and custody schedules during deployment. Learn more on our dedicated
Proudly Serving San Diego County & North County Courts
Whether filing at the downtown San Diego Family Courthouse or litigating at the North County Regional Center in
Schedule Your Free 30-Minute Consultation Today!
Don’t wait to protect what matters most. Schedule a consultation with Hassett Family Law today and let us guide you through the complexities of family law. Your family’s future is our top priority.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Taking the first step towards resolving your family law matters is simple. Schedule a consultation with our experienced attorneys to discuss your case and explore your options. Protect your family's future by reaching out to us today.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS About Divorce and Legal Separation
Can I file for legal separation without a lawyer in California?
While you are legally permitted to represent yourself, proceeding without counsel carries significant financial risk. A legal separation handles nearly every issue a divorce does. An experienced attorney makes sure your separation agreement properly addresses
What should I ask a lawyer when deciding between legal separation and divorce?
When speaking with an attorney, focus on your long-term financial and personal goals. Key questions to ask include: Will a separation allow me to keep my current health insurance? How are future Social Security benefits impacted? and If we legally separate now, how hard is it to convert to a full divorce later?
What exactly does a divorce attorney do during the dissolution process?
A divorce attorney manages every legal and financial detail of your case. Their role includes preparing and filing all mandatory financial disclosures, valuing and dividing community property, negotiating child and spousal support, and aggressively advocating for your rights in mediation or family court to secure a favorable outcome.
How do I find the right divorce attorney in San Diego?
Look for specialized experience. Seek an attorney who practices exclusively in family law, has strong reviews regarding client communication, and possesses deep familiarity with local San Diego family court judges and procedures. An initial consultation is the best way to assess their courtroom strategy and determine if they are a good fit for your family’s needs.
How much does a divorce attorney cost in San Diego?
The total cost depends entirely on the complexity of your case. If both parties are amicable and agree to a mediated settlement, costs remain relatively low. However, contested cases involving high-net-worth asset division, hidden income, or fierce child custody disputes require more litigation and will cost more. We discuss transparent fee structures and provide estimates based on your specific situation during your initial consultation.
Protecting Your Rights, Your Family & Your Future
Comprehensive Family Law Solutions
Our Location
Phone
Address
Suite 100
San Diego, CA 92130