Division of Property Attorneys in La Mesa

Representation for Division of Assets in Divorce

During a divorce or legal separation, your assets and debts will need to be divided between you and your partner. The division of assets can be a complex and lengthy process, which is why it is important that you have a La Mesa divorce attorney with years of experience by your side. Having been in practice since 1992, I understand what it takes to ensure that you get a favorable result.

Property includes personal items and assets, including:

• Cars, boats, motorcycles, and other vehicles
• Houses or other residences
• Furniture
• Clothing
• Security deposits on apartments
• Bank accounts and cash
• Retirement plans such as pension plans and 401(k) plans
• Stocks
• Life insurance that has a cash value
• Businesses and patents

To find out how your property may be affected, give me a call at (619) 304-8499.

Understanding California's Property Laws

As a community property state, California views all property and debts acquired during the marriage as belonging to the legal "community," which encompasses both partners. That means that everything that you purchased during the length of your marriage belongs to the both of you, excluding gifts and inheritances. In addition to items, all of the earnings that both partners earned during the marriage belong to the "community." The same goes for credit card debt that has accumulated during the marriage, even if the credit card was under one person's name. Furthermore, if either party purchased property outside of California, that property is labeled "quasi-community property" and is considered as community property under California law.

What Is Considered Separate Property?

Property that you acquired before the marriage is considered yours. If you purchase property during the marriage with money that you earned from your separate property, then that newly acquired property is considered yours. For example, if you purchase a car with earnings that you received from an inheritance, the car would be yours even if you purchased it while married.

Understanding California's property laws can be difficult during a divorce. Fortunately, in my time as a La Mesa divorce lawyer, I have come to understand how the courts distinguish community and separate property, and I can provide sound insight to help you understand your options, your rights, and what you may be up against. I am here to work closely with you to protect what’s yours and to preserve your quality of life.

Give me a call at (619) 304-8499 to learn how I can help. I serve clients across San Diego and the surrounding areas, including La Mesa, El Cajon and Lemon Grove.