Filing Divorce in Fresno

Filing divorce in Fresno is often a long and complicated process. There are numerous steps involved and pivotal decisions to be made as well as a great deal of paperwork to be filed. Having the help of an experienced divorce attorney is crucial. At Miller & Ayala, we have considerable experience handling all aspects of divorce cases and provide effective and compassionate legal representation.

File divorce in Fresno

The first step in the Fresno divorce process involves the preparation and filing of the petition and summons. The petition officially requests that the marriage be dissolved. The petitioner serves the summons to the other spouse, indicating that a petition for dissolution of marriage has been filed and there is 30 days in which to respond.

After filing and responding to the petition and summons the process to file divorce in Fresno continues with the following:

• Discovery – Both sides exchange information and documents detailing finances, expenses, assets, and properties. This can be done through written questions or in-person deposition.
• Settlement conference – Often times the court will require both spouses to attend a conference with their attorneys in an attempt to negotiate solutions to some of the issues. Occasionally a couple may be able to come to a full settlement agreement and proceeding to trial is no longer necessary.
• Temporary order – Either spouse may request a temporary order via a pre-trial hearing. This is called an Order to Show Cause. Such requests are often done to decide alimony payments, temporary child custody or visitation arrangements while the divorce is pending.
• Agreement – If, at any point during the process, both spouses are able to resolve the marital issues in question the case may not have to proceed to court. Attorneys will submit a settlement agreement and a judgment will be entered.
• Trial – If an agreement is not reached the case proceeds to trial. The court will then render all decisions based on the evidence presented.

Once a divorce agreement or judgment is approved, and the 6-month waiting period ends, the divorce becomes official.

Seek advice from experienced attorneys

Divorcing in Fresno is a complex process. With so much at stake, it is important to seek experienced legal representation. At Miller & Ayala, LLP we have extensive experience representing clients in family law mediations, negotiations, and litigation and have developed a reputation for excellence in client counseling and advocacy. Our attorneys are committed to providing clients with excellent personal service and outstanding results.

To learn more about filing divorce in Fresno or to schedule a free consultation, call us at 888-406-1472 or use our email form and contact us today!