An Advocate In Family Law Cases

Caring Advocacy Through Every Step Of A Divorce

Whether you are preparing to file for a divorce or you have already begun, The Stratte Firm will steadfastly represent you. Erin Stratte, the founding attorney, believes strongly in helping people who are going through difficult legal situations. Serving Oakland and the Bay Area, she devotes her career to empowering her clients to start happy new lives after a challenging legal battle.

Work Hand-In-Hand With Your Lawyer

Attorney Stratte sits down with you to learn about your situation and understand your goals. Together, you and she will develop a plan of action. You can rely on her to provide outstanding service as she addresses every family law issue related to your divorce, including:

  • Asset and debt division: She advocates for a fair asset division arrangement while also protecting your finances.
  • LGBTQ divorce: Same-sex couples may face additional challenges, so she ensures the court respects your civil rights.
  • Child custody and visitation: If you have children, she fights to make sure you get a custody and parenting time order in their best interests.
  • Domestic abuse and protective orders: If you survived domestic abuse, she helps you escape your circumstances and secure a restraining order if needed.

She has experience with divorce mediation, private negotiations and traditional litigation. With her clients, she is caring and compassionate. With the opposing counsel, she is aggressive and unshakable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce In California

Having worked with many clients in similar situations, attorney Stratte understands how deeply divorce concerns can affect your life and future. Here are clear and straightforward answers to common questions about divorce in California.

How should you plan for a divorce?

Planning for divorce in California involves comprehensive preparation. As such, follow the following key steps:

  • Gather necessary financial documents, including tax returns, bank statements and pay stubs.
  • Create a comprehensive inventory of marital and separate assets
  • Establish individual credit in your name
  • Build a support network of trusted friends, family and potentially a therapist.
  • Document key information about child care, financial contributions and household responsibilities.

All in all, this can only be practical if you familiarize yourself with California’s divorce laws.

What is the divorce process in California?

Divorce begins with filing a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage in the family court. After filing, the other spouse is served with the divorce papers. There is a six-month waiting period before the divorce can be finalized, during which both parties resolve key issues such as property division, spousal support and child custody.

If both parties agree on all terms, the divorce is considered uncontested, which can simplify proceedings. However, if disputes arise, mediation or court intervention may be necessary to reach a resolution.

What are the grounds for divorce in California?

California recognizes two primary grounds for divorce: irreconcilable differences that have caused an irreparable breakdown of the marriage and permanent legal incapacity to make decisions. Most divorces are filed under irreconcilable differences, which allows for a more amicable separation process.

What should you consider if you have children and want a divorce?

Child-related considerations are paramount in California. Courts prioritize the best interests of the child, carefully evaluating:

  • Each parent’s ability to provide care
  • Existing relationships
  • Home environment stability
  • The child’s specific adjustment needs

Parents are, therefore, encouraged to develop a comprehensive parenting plan that addresses physical and legal custody, holiday schedules and communication methods. Joint custody is common, but courts may award sole custody if one parent is deemed unfit.

Discuss Divorce And Your Other Challenges Today

You do not need to go through a difficult divorce on your own. The Stratte Firm is the California firm to represent you. To learn more, please set up an initial consultation with attorney Stratte . Call the office at 510-480-1845 or send her an email to begin.

We service Greater Sacramento Area, Greater Bay Area, and Greater Los Angeles Area, as specific counties such as well as specific counties such as Alameda, Colusa, Contra Costa, El Dorado, Glenn, Los Angeles, Marin, Merced, Monterey, Napa, Nevada, Orange, Placer, Riverside, Sacramento, San Francisco, San Joaquin, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Sierra, Solano, Sonoma, Stanislaus, Sutter, Ventura, Yolo, Yuba.