Understanding “Divorce” and Why You Need A Seasoned Family Law Counsel

Daniel Gold • June 10, 2024
Legal Rights in Divorce

Divorce can be a challenging and emotionally charged process, but understanding your legal rights can help you navigate it more smoothly , and in the end, get the best resolution possible.

Community Property

California is a community property state . What does that mean?? Simply, it means that all assets and debts acquired during the marriage are considered joint property. This includes income, real estate, vehicles, and even debts. During a divorce, these assets and liabilities are typically divided equally between the spouses.

Spousal Support

Also known as alimony, spousal support is designed to help the lower-earning spouse maintain a similar standard of living both during and after the divorce process is completed . Factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse's earning capacity, and contributions to the household are considered when determining spousal support.

Child Custody and Support

Child custody decisions center on what is in the best interests of the child. Both parents are encouraged to participate actively in their child's life, and the court considers factors like the child's health, safety, and welfare. Child support is calculated using a standard formula that considers both parents' incomes and the time each parent spends with the child.

Division of Property

In addition to community property, separate property—assets owned before the marriage or acquired by gift or inheritance during the marriage—remains with the original owner. Proper documentation and proof are essential to establish separate property claims.

Legal Representation

Having legal representation is crucial in a divorce. An experienced attorney can provide valuable guidance, protect your rights, and help negotiate a fair settlement. They can also assist with complex issues such as business valuations, high-asset divorces, and custody disputes.

Mediation and Collaborative Divorce

Mediation and collaborative divorce are alternatives to traditional litigation. These processes encourage cooperative problem-solving and can result in more amicable agreements. They often save time and money and reduce the emotional toll on both parties.

Conclusion:

Understanding your legal rights in a California divorce can help you make informed decisions and protect your interests. Whether you're dealing with property division, spousal support, or child custody, having the right information and legal support is essential.


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Call: 949-756-0684
Email: dgold@tldlaw.com



Disclaimer
This information outlines a few of the concepts that surround separation, dissolution and annulment in the State of California. It is not intended to be, nor should it be construed as legal advice for any particular situation. Please seek advice from TLD Law or your personal attorney in your state or jurisdiction.

By abawden February 23, 2026
TLD Law Family Law Partner Daniel R. Gold was recently featured on the Divorce Mortgage Strategies Podcast , powered by the Divorce Lending Association . In the episode, titled “ The Divorce Quarterback: Leading the Team That Guides Clients Through Divorce ,” Dan joins host Amy Valdivia, CDLP®, to discuss the importance of coordination and strategy in complex divorce matters. The conversation explores how successful outcomes often require collaboration among family law attorneys, mortgage professionals, and financial experts—particularly in cases involving substantial assets, real property, retirement accounts, and long-term support considerations. Dan shares insight from decades of experience guiding clients through high-net-worth and gray divorces. He explains why approaching divorce as a team effort—where the attorney serves as a strategic leader coordinating financial, lending, and legal professionals—can help clients make informed, sustainable decisions during one of life’s most significant transitions. Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mx7ruqT_IiU About Daniel R. Gold Daniel R. Gold is a partner at TLD Law and a California State Bar–certified Family Law Specialist. His practice focuses on complex divorce and family law matters, including high-net-worth divorces, division of business interests and real property, retirement asset division, and long-term support issues. Known for his strategic and detail-oriented approach, Dan works closely with clients to provide clarity and steady guidance through financially and emotionally complex situations. Learn more about Daniel R. Gold: https://tldlaw.com/our-people/daniel-gold/ About the Divorce Mortgage Strategies Podcast and the Divorce Lending Association The Divorce Mortgage Strategies Podcast is produced by the Divorce Lending Association and is designed for family law professionals, financial specialists, and individuals navigating divorce. The podcast focuses on promoting divorce literacy, financial clarity, and cross-professional collaboration to support better outcomes in divorce cases. Learn more about the podcast: https://www.divorcelendingassociation.com/reports/divorce-literacy-podcast.cfm  Visit the Divorce Lending Association: https://www.divorcelendingassociation.com/
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