Mother & Daughter Legal Team
Same-Sex Divorce
With 70 years of combined experience, you can trust that your case is in good hands.
Torrance Same-Sex Divorce Lawyer
At Patricia Barberis, A Law Corporation, we understand the unique challenges that same-sex couples in Torrance face during the divorce process. Our dedicated team, with over 70 years of combined experience, is here to provide compassionate legal counsel and unwavering support. As a same sex divorce lawyer in Torrance, we focus exclusively on family law, ensuring our clients receive the attention and knowledge they need when navigating the complexities of same-sex divorce.
Understanding Same-Sex Divorce in Torrance
Divorce is a challenging process for any couple, but same-sex divorces in Torrance may come with unique considerations. California law recognizes same-sex marriages and provides the same legal framework for divorce as it does for heterosexual couples. However, same-sex couples often face specific issues, such as equitable distribution of assets and child custody, that require a nuanced understanding of family law.
One of the primary concerns for same-sex couples is the recognition of marriages or partnerships that took place before same-sex marriage was legalized nationwide. This can complicate the division of assets and liabilities. It's also important to consider how domestic partnerships, which might have been the only option available to many couples before legalization, play into current divorce proceedings. Our team stays current with evolving legal precedents to ensure your rights and partnerships are properly recognized and valued.
How We Approach Your Unique Needs
We believe that every divorce case is as unique as the individuals involved. At Patricia Barberis, A Law Corporation, our approach starts with understanding your specific needs and goals. Our client-focused strategies are designed to address the immediate concerns you face as well as anticipate future challenges.
We also place significant emphasis on communication, ensuring that our clients feel heard and understood throughout the process. Whether it involves negotiating settlements, dividing complex assets, or resolving child custody matters, we bring empathy and clarity to each interaction. Our commitment to transparency and open dialogue helps ease the emotional toll that divorce can take and empowers our clients to make informed decisions.
Why Choose Patricia Barberis, A Law Corporation?
Exclusive Focus on Family Law: Our firm concentrates solely on family law, providing experienced legal support in same-sex divorce, custody, and support issues.
Decades of Experience: With local roots since 1977, we have a proven track record of favorable outcomes for our clients.
Client-Centric Approach: Our focus is on maintaining open communication and tailoring strategies to meet your unique objectives.
Recognized by Peers & Clients: Our AV Preeminent® rating and Superb Avvo rating underscore our professionalism and effective courtroom representation.
Frequently Asked Questions about Same-Sex Divorce
What Are the Grounds for Divorce in California?
California operates under a no-fault divorce system, which means that neither spouse has to prove wrongdoing to file for divorce. The most common grounds cited are irreconcilable differences, meaning that the marriage has broken down beyond repair. This applies equally to same-sex and opposite-sex marriages, ensuring that the focus is on resolving the practical issues arising from the divorce.
How Is Property Divided in a Same-Sex Divorce?
California is a community property state, meaning that any property acquired during the marriage is generally considered to belong to both spouses equally. However, property division can become complex if the marriage duration includes time before the legalization of same-sex unions. We explore every facet of our clients' assets and liabilities, working with financial experts to ensure equitable distribution under the law.
The process can also involve handling separate property issues, where assets and debts acquired before marriage or through inheritance are typically retained by the original owner. Understanding these nuances and properly documenting the history of ownership can significantly impact the fairness of asset division. We proactively manage these elements to protect our clients' interests.
What About Child Custody in Same-Sex Divorces?
Child custody is determined by what is in the best interest of the child. In same-sex divorces, both legal and non-legal parents may seek custody or visitation rights. Our firm is adept at navigating the sensitive nature of these discussions, working towards an arrangement that prioritizes the child’s welfare while respecting the rights of both parents.
In recent years, there have been crucial developments in recognizing the parental rights of non-biological parents in same-sex unions. We stay abreast of these legal changes to ensure a fair evaluation of each parent's role in the child's life, advocating fiercely for arrangements that serve the best interest of the family unit.
Can We Mediate Our Divorce?
Mediation is an option available to same-sex couples who wish to resolve their divorce amicably. This process involves a neutral third-party mediator who helps both parties reach a mutually acceptable agreement on key issues such as property division, custody, and spousal support. Our team can guide you through mediation to facilitate a smoother transition into the next chapter of your life.
Mediation offers several benefits, including reduced costs and time compared to litigated divorces. It also allows couples to maintain more control over the outcomes impacting their lives while reducing conflict and stress. We believe that this approach can serve as a powerful tool for achieving resolution in a respectful and non-adversarial setting.
How To Start the Divorce Process?
The first step to initiating a divorce is to file a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the local family court. From there, serving the divorce papers to the other spouse is mandatory. At Patricia Barberis, A Law Corporation, we handle these initial steps and guide you through the entire process, ensuring that you are well-informed and prepared at every stage.
It's essential to properly complete and file all necessary forms to prevent delays. Our firm ensures that all documentation reflects your intentions accurately, considering elements like temporary orders dealing with child support, custody, or restraining orders as needed for immediate relief. This thorough preparation sets the foundation for a more effective divorce resolution.
Contact Us for Support & Guidance
At Patricia Barberis, A Law Corporation, we are here to help you navigate the complexities of same-sex divorce with confidence and care. As your trusted same sex divorce attorney in Torrance, our firm has been a pillar in the community for decades, and our reputation for client-focused advocacy speaks volumes about our dedication to successful outcomes.
Schedule your consultation today with our team at Patricia Barberis, A Law Corporation. Together, we will work to protect your rights and secure your future. Call us at (310) 904-6648to take the first step towards resolution with our Torrance same-sex divorce attorney!
I couldn't have chosen a better law team to represent my family and me. Everyone in the office treats us with love and care, ensuring that I understand everything that is happening. You are a wonderful, loyal person, and you are also an excellent, caring, and highly professional lawyer. Words cannot express how grateful I am for all you have done. I did not want the day to pass without thanking you again for your work today.
Mikki D.
“I thank them for their excellence”
Pat, Colleen, and the team helped me through a very difficult custody issue many years ago, so I called them again when I needed to divorce. I thank them for their excellence, efficiency, and a successful settlement!
Shireen C.
“Colleen was by my side”
Divorce can be very difficult, expensive and stressful. You need someone to talk to that could lead you in the right direction when you’re ready. Colleen was the right person to do that. She and Pat Barberis are the team that made me feel protected when I was the most vulnerable early in the divorce process. They were patient with me and Colleen was by my side in court when I really needed in person representation before the court.
C.D.
“I would strongly recommend Pat”
Pat helped me with my divorce, which was a difficult time for me. She was fantastic, helping me through the whole process. She worked very hard to ensure it was as positive an outcome for me as possible.
When I turned to her for some legal advice just recently, several years after my divorce, I was able to set up a consultation with her that same day. She worked through the situation with me, understanding it and providing me with options that could be pursued, and giving me very solid advice. I would never hesitate to engage her again if the need arose. I would strongly recommend Pat for any family law needs you might have.
Joseph R.
“Pat Barberis is fabulous!”
Pat helped me with my divorce previously, which was a very difficult time for me. She was fantastic, helping me through the whole process. She worked very hard to ensure it was as positive an outcome for me as possible. When I turned to her for some legal advice just recently, several years after my divorce, I was able to set up a consultation with her that same day. She worked through the situation with me, understanding the it and providing me with options that could be pursued, and giving me very solid advice. I would never hesitate to engage her again if the need arose. I would strongly recommend Pat for any family law needs you might have.
Joe
“Thank you so much”
Pat did a phenomenal job throughout my high conflict divorce. She will communicate all your options to you, she will advocate for you and fight for you, and she is so knowledgeable--her amount of expertise will put your mind at ease. She would be so prompt with all communications that if I ever had a question she would even respond to me after hours or on the weekends if needed (which I was super impressed with and it was much appreciated). Her team (which includes Colleen Barberis) and all of the office staff were incredible throughout the divorce and I will be forever grateful to them for getting me to the finish line with this divorce. I walked away with an incredible settlement and had a great outcome because of all their hard work. Thank you so much Pat, Colleen, and office staff!!
Liz L
“I would recommend them to everyone.”
Patricia and Colleen and their helpful office staff were a full service team who helped support me and get me through my family court battles. They were quick to respond and helpful. I would recommend them to everyone.
Sarah T.
“They are wonderful people and are extremely knowledgeable.”
I have had the best representation and experience with the law team of Patricia Barberis. I have had the pleasure of using them twice. They do a great job. Patricia Colleen and everyone in the office is super helpful and very talented in what they do. Their understanding of family law is amazing. Patricia and her team were very kind and patient with me in difficult times and circumstances. The last one was during the Pandemic late last year and they did an A+ job. Patricia’s guidance was super helpful and her paralegal Nancy did a fantastic job too. I highly recommend Patricia Barberis Law Firm for all family law matters. They are wonderful people and are extremely knowledgeable.
