How long does it take to get a divorce in El Dorado County?

In California, there is a mandatory six-month waiting period from the date the respondent is served before the divorce can be finalized. Even if you reach an agreement quickly, you will not be legally single until this period expires.

What is the difference between Legal Separation and Divorce?

Legal separation allows you to resolve issues like property division and support while remaining legally married. This is often chosen for religious reasons or to maintain certain benefits like health insurance. Unlike a divorce, there is no six-month waiting period for a legal separation to become effective.

What is CCRC, and is it mandatory?

Yes. In El Dorado County, if parents cannot agree on a parenting plan, they are required to attend Child Custody Recommending Counseling (CCRC). Unlike some other counties, El Dorado is a 'recommending' county, meaning if you don't reach an agreement, the counselor will submit a written recommendation to the judge.

What does 'Best Interests of the Child' actually mean in our local court?

The Placerville judges focus on the child’s health, safety, and welfare. They look for stability, the continuity of the child’s environment (school, friends, and community in the Foothills), and each parent’s ability to support the child's relationship with the other parent.

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Q: Does California care whose 'fault' the divorce is?

No. California is a 'no-fault' state. The court typically grants divorces based on 'irreconcilable differences,' meaning you do not need to prove misconduct by your spouse to end the marriage.

Q: At what age can my child choose which parent to live with?

There is no fixed age where a child 'chooses,' but California law states that if a child is of 'sufficient age and capacity to reason' (often considered around age 14), the court must consider their preference. However, the judge always makes the final decision based on the child's best interests.

Q: How is child support calculated in El Dorado County?

California uses a statewide 'guideline' formula. It primarily looks at both parents' monthly net disposable income and the percentage of time each parent spends with the children.

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We provide comprehensive legal representation across family law, estate planning, and protective orders. Our experienced team is dedicated to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcomes.

Divorce

Expert guidance through every step of the divorce process, from initial consultation to final settlement and decree.

Child Custody & Visitation

We advocate for arrangements that serve the best interests of your children while protecting your parental rights.

Child Support

Fair and enforceable child support agreements that ensure financial stability for your children's wellbeing.

Spousal Support

Skillful negotiation and advocacy for fair spousal support arrangements that reflect current circumstances.

Property & Debt Division

Aggressive representation to ensure equitable division of marital assets and fair allocation of liabilities.

Domestic Violence Restraining Orders

Immediate legal protection and representation to keep you and your children safe from abuse and harassment.

Civil Harassment Restraining Orders

Legal remedies to protect you from unwanted contact, threats, or harassment in non-domestic situations.

Estate Planning

Comprehensive estate planning services to protect your assets and ensure your wishes are legally documented and honored.

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So I had just found out that all the time and effort I had put in to my child support case had not been filed properly on Friday with hearing scheduled Monday morning. I have no money for an attorney and just needed to ask a few questions. I had not retained an attorney and just stopped by Mr Dosh's...

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Aaron Dosh is an excellent attorney. His counsel has provided me clear and concise direction regarding the safety and well being of my 3 children. If you want someone who will fight for you and understands family law look no further.

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I used Aaron Dosh and his team going through a divorce process, was happy with their communication. My previous lawyer assumed I knew the legal process more than I did and I think it hurt me. With Dosh and Associates they were good with explaining in layman's terms.

- Burns B.

Luke Sprenkel represented me in a divorce case that lasted nearly a year. Throughout the process he was responsive, professional and had my best interests in mind. The same was true of the team there, whom were always responsive and respectful. I would recommend Luke and the team to anyone.

- Jacob C.

Aaron Dosh and his associates have helped me through the hardest time in my life. They have shown me so much respect and kindness when I could not even think clearly. I'd hire Aaron again In a heartbeat.. he's very smart and knows the law and what's fair. I'd highly recommend him if your looking for...

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There's a reason that Aaron Dosh is the #1 family law attorney in El Dorado County. He is well respected by the courts (even in Sacramento county) and has earned the reputation he has by fighting hard for his clients. If you want someone to hold your hand and let you ramble on and waste time and mon...

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does California care whose "fault" the divorce is?

No. California is a "no-fault" state. The court typically grants divorces based on "irreconcilable differences," meaning you do not need to prove misconduct by your spouse to end the marriage.

What are the residency requirements to file in Placerville?

To file for divorce at the El Dorado County Superior Court, at least one spouse must have lived in California for the past six months and in El Dorado County for the past three months.

At what age can my child choose which parent to live with?

There is no fixed age where a child "chooses," but California law states that if a child is of "sufficient age and capacity to reason" (often considered around age 14), the court must consider their preference. However, the judge always makes the final decision based on the child's best interests.

How is child support calculated in El Dorado County?

California uses a statewide "guideline" formula. It primarily looks at both parents' monthly net disposable income and the percentage of time each parent spends with the children.

How long does spousal support (alimony) last?

For marriages lasting less than 10 years, support is generally paid for half the length of the marriage. For "long-term" marriages (10+ years), the court has more discretion and may not set a specific termination date at the start.

What happens to our home and debts?

California is a community property state. Generally, any assets or debts acquired during the marriage are split 50/50. Property owned before the marriage or received as an inheritance is usually considered separate property, though "commingling" assets can complicate this.

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