Can a defendant refuse to testify at a trial hearing for a DVRO? and if so what are the limitation or pro's and cons of this?

Yes, he can assert his right against self-incrimination. If he does not, the district attorney could use his statements against him in a criminal...

Is there ever a need to respond to responsive declarations?

You may submit a Reply Declaration five court-days before the hearing. It is a good idea to do so if they introduce new facts that you need to rebut.

How do I know I am getting a fair buyout?

If the property was purchased during the marriage, and no contribution towards the down payment was made with separate property funds, the buyout...

Do I need to include income I make on the side for the purposes of child support?

Yes. All gross income you receive must be disclosed for child support calculations. The Income & Expense Declaration (FL-150) must be completely...

Ex husband claims my children on his tax return. Is this legal?

As to whether he can claim the minor child on his tax returns: typically the party claiming the minor child has to have custody of the child at...

Do I have to take both last names?

You can change your last name to any name you want, so long as it isn't for a fraudulent purpose, copyrighted, or overtly offensive.

Without a prenuptial agreement, your home and retirement accounts probably won't be divided equally. For your home, the community would acquire...

What if I get a good job and make money more after the divorce is final?

It depends on the terms of the Judgment. You and your spouse may stipulate to terminate the Court's jurisdiction to award spousal support to either...

Noncustodial parent recently married and wants to modify the existing support to pay less.

His marriage shouldn't have an effect on his child support obligation. Child support is calculated via a fairly rigid formula. If the Court orders...

Will I still receive spousal support if I file a Joinder?

A qualified domestic relations order (QDRO) is made in order to divide a retirement or pension account. The joinder of the retirement plan should...