Marriage is a lifetime commitment, however, it’s sad that some marriages end with divorce.  Though the number of divorce cases dropped at its lowest level since 1970, the number is still relatively high.  The divorce process may be a bit complicated.  It starts when you file your petition for divorce.  In case one spouse is financially dependent on the other, you will have to ask the court for temporary orders for support and custody. Divorcees also need to file proof of service of process or a document that shows that a copy of the petition was given to the other party.  The one who receives the service of process will then file a response to the petition.

After all the papers have been submitted you can undergo the negotiation process - which can either be mediation or arbitration.  In mediation, the parties will try to negotiate their differences.  In case you or your spouse don’t want to hire separate lawyers to go to trial but don’t think mediation is right for you, then you should consider arbitration.  It is when you submit your dispute to a third party who functions as a judge.  This judge listens to the facts you present and make a judgement out of it.  You can hold the arbitration in San Diego, Los Angeles, Irvine, Orange County, or anywhere else.

When the issues were not completely resolved between parties, then it will have to be decided at a trial. Undergoing a trial is longer and costs more money than mediation or arbitration that is why it is best to avoid going to a trial if possible.

Then comes the order of dissolution. This ends the marriage and tells how the properties and debts are divided, custody, support and other issues.

Divorce can be frustrating, time consuming and tormenting. Making the right choices, waiting for the right person and the right time are crucial before getting married.