How is child support calculated?

In California, child support is calculated using a state-mandated formula that considers both parents' incomes, the percentage of time each parent spends with the child, and any tax liabilities or credits. The calculation also accounts for health insurance expenses, mandatory retirement contributions, and support for children from other relationships. This approach aims to balance the financial contributions of both parents fairly, so that the child's needs are met while considering the financial ability of each parent.

How is property divided in a California divorce?

Property division during a divorce follows the community property law, which means that any assets and debts acquired during the marriage are considered owned equally by both spouses and are divided equally in the divorce. Separate property, which includes assets owned before marriage or acquired as a gift or inheritance during the marriage, generally remains with the original owner. The court aims to ensure a fair and equitable division of all marital assets and debts, taking into account factors such as the economic circumstances of each spouse.

Can spousal support be modified after the divorce is final?

Yes, spousal support can be modified after the divorce is final in California, but certain conditions must be met. Modifications are generally considered if there has been a significant change in circumstances for either party, such as a substantial change in income, unemployment, or a serious health issue. The party seeking the modification needs to file a motion with the court and provide evidence of the change in circumstances. The court will then review the case and decide whether an adjustment to the spousal support is justified.

What is the difference between legal custody and physical custody?

Legal custody refers to a parent's right and responsibility to make significant decisions about a child's health, education, and welfare. This includes decisions about schooling, medical care, and religious upbringing. Physical custody, on the other hand, pertains to where the child lives and with whom. A parent with physical custody has the child living with them for most of the time, though this can be shared in a joint physical custody arrangement where the child spends significant time with both parents. Both types of custody can be awarded jointly or solely, depending on what the court deems is in the best interest of the child.

What can and cannot be included in a prenuptial agreement?

In California, a prenuptial agreement can include provisions for the division of property and assets, the rights and obligations of each spouse regarding property, management of household bills and expenses, and the distribution of property upon separation, divorce, or death. Spousal support terms can also be included but must not be unconscionable at the time of enforcement. However, a prenuptial agreement cannot include terms that affect child custody or child support decisions. These matters are determined by the court based on the child's best interests at the time of the divorce. Additionally, prenuptial agreements cannot contain clauses that promote divorce or violate public policy, such as penalties for gaining weight or stipulations on personal behavior.

Marina Del Rey Family Lawyer

Divorce, child custody, prenups, and more – it’s all on the table when you contact your Marina Del Rey family lawyer. At Skarin Law Group, we’re ready to use our 15+ years of experience to walk you through your next steps. Read on to see why a domestic relations lawyer is so important, and get in touch with us today to get started.

Family Lawyer Marina Del Rey, CA

If you think you’re headed for a divorce, you need to make sure you can keep seeing your kids. You also need to protect your assets, while you’re at it. Unfortunately, if you try to handle your divorce proceedings by yourself, those proceedings won’t go well for you. Your ex may have a whole team of lawyers on hand, and those lawyers will make sure you pay big. The best way to avoid this outcome is to have your own team of lawyers, too.

Divorce proceedings aren’t the only reason you’ll need an attorney on your side. If your divorce has already been finalized, how do you make adjustments to your child support or spousal support payments? Life changes, and you may lose a job, or need to move out of the area. Once again, having a Marina Del Rey family lawyer on your side can make a real difference.

Aside from divorces, you may also need legal support if you’re trying to adopt a child. Starting a new family can be an exciting process, and it’s much less stressful than dealing with a separation. However, there’s still a lot of paperwork to keep up with, and even a minor mistake can lead to frustrating delays. Your family law lawyer can keep you on track.

The right family law lawyer can even help you before you’ve started a family at all. If you’ve decided to get married (or even remarried), your attorney can help you create a prenup. If you’ve been divorced before, you know how valuable these can be. And even if you’re getting married for the first time, it’s important to have one of these in case of emergencies. While it may be uncomfortable talking about prenups with your loved one, with the help and input of your family counselor, it can actually make your relationship even stronger.

From divorces to child support modifications, adoptions to prenups, your family attorney can make a major difference. You just need to make sure you choose an attorney with plenty of experience.

Why Experience Matters In Family Law Cases

No matter the specifics, you need an experienced legal team on your side. At Skarin Law Group, here’s what we provide for our clients:

Award-winning service: Skarin Law Group has a 10.0 – Superb rating on Avvo. We also earned an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell. We continue to provide this high standard of service for all of our clients.
Over 15 years of experience: We’ve been helping clients for over 15 years, so we know the best strategies for cases like yours.
A wide range of family law support: From divorces to child custody and prenups, we’ll help you every step of the way.

Contact Us Today

You deserve an experienced family attorney. We can help. Contact Skarin Law Group today, and see what our Marina Del Rey family lawyer can do for you.

Types of Family Lawyer Cases We Handle

Types of Marina Del Ray, CA Family Lawyer Cases We Handle Family law matters can quickly become overwhelming without the right guidance in place. If you are searching for a Marina Del Ray, CA family lawyer, it helps to work with a team that understands both the legal and financial sides of your case. At Skarin Law Group, clients benefit from a rare level of experience that goes beyond standard family law representation. In California, more than 170,000 attorneys are licensed to practice, yet fewer than 1,500 have earned the designation of Certified Family Law Specialist. Within that select group, Matthew K. Skarin stands out as the only one who is also a Certified Public Accountant. His combined background allows for deeper financial analysis in cases involving divorce, asset division, and support. This level of experience helps clients better understand their position early on and move forward with a strategy built to protect their rights and interests.

Divorce and Legal Separation

Divorce and legal separation cases often involve detailed financial and personal considerations that must be handled with care. From dividing assets to determining next steps for your future, we guide you through each phase with a clear and structured approach. Our team focuses on helping you move forward while protecting what matters most.

Child Custody and Visitation

Child custody disputes can be emotionally charged and legally complex, especially when parents disagree on parenting arrangements. We work to create practical custody plans or advocate in court to support outcomes that prioritize stability and the child’s well-being.

Child and Spousal Support

Support matters require a careful review of income, expenses, and long-term financial needs. When working with a Marina Del Ray family lawyer, you gain a clearer understanding of how support is calculated and what factors may influence the final outcome.

Property Division and Asset Protection

Dividing marital property is rarely simple, particularly when significant or hidden assets are involved. With a strong financial background, we examine records closely to help pursue fair and equitable distribution of assets and debts.

Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements

Agreements made before or during a marriage can provide clarity and protection for both parties. We assist clients in drafting and reviewing these agreements so they reflect clear expectations and reduce the risk of disputes later.

Modifications and Enforcement

Life circumstances can change after a court order is entered, requiring updates or enforcement actions. We help clients request modifications or take legal steps when existing agreements are not being followed.

Domestic Violence and Restraining Orders

Cases involving domestic violence require immediate attention and a focused legal response. We assist clients in seeking protection through restraining orders while addressing related family law issues that may arise.

Paternity Actions

Establishing paternity can impact custody, visitation, and financial responsibilities. Our team helps clients navigate this process with clarity while working toward outcomes that support the child’s best interests.

Family law cases often involve multiple layers of legal and financial considerations that cannot be overlooked. Working with a Marina Del Ray family lawyer who understands these details can help you make informed decisions at every stage. Skarin Law Group provides guidance grounded in experience, attention to detail, and a commitment to protecting your future. Reach out to our team of professionals today to learn more about how we may assist you.

Contact

360 N Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 1000, El Segundo, CA 90245

New Client: (310) 256-2700 | Existing Client: (310) 975-3161 | F: (323) 305-7720