The divorce process in California starts with a summons and a petition, typically filed by a family law attorney at the petitioner’s request. A petition for dissolution of marriage is similar to a lawsuit, but instead of filing a lawsuit by a plaintiff against a defendant, a spouse files a petition (also known as the petitioner) and asks for a divorce against the other spouse, who is named as a respondent. If the divorce is contested, litigation is often necessary to resolve issues surrounding the separation. If the divorce is uncontested and both parties agree, they may want to consider mediation as a more amicable and affordable process of marriage dissolution.
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Experienced Counsel You Can Trust Paula D. Kleinman
Family Law
Over 25 years of experience providing personal representation to help clients resolve
family law matters important to them.
Over 25 years legal experience
Experienced Experts in the Area of Family
Law Serving Vista, California
about our family law
When you need to resolve important family law matters, an experienced lawyer can provide the legal counsel you need to make the choices that are right for your specific situation. I am family law attorney Paula D. Kleinman. Clients will receive personal representation through every stage of their legal dilemma.
The time leading up to a divorce can be an anxious, stressful period in a person’s life. Obviously, a divorce will bring on many changes in your life. If you have decided to file for divorce, or if your spouse has already made the decision to file for divorce, understand that there are a wide range of potential outcomes in your divorce. Some of these outcomes are favorable, and some of these outcomes may not meet your needs.
I am attorney Paula D. Kleinman. My law firm is located in Vista, and I represent people throughout San Diego County in the full range of legal matters that can impact your family.
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From day 1 it seemed that Paula took a personal interest in my case, almost as if what was happening to me was happening to her. My case probably spread out over the course of a year or more and there was never a breakdown in communication and she even…
Christopher Victoria
I used Paula a few years back. She thought of things that I didn’t even think of that I should include in my order. She was quick, thorough, and reasonably priced. She made the process easy especially since my ex’s lawyer kept submitting paperwork that was incorrect (showing wrong names…
Julia McSweeney
Paula was such a great help when I was so lost with my legal issue! She kept on top of everything and made sure all of my forms were completed properly and made everything a breeze, no stress, and in a timely manner. Whenever I had a question she was…
Kellen Sims
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meet our attorney
Paula D. Kleinman
Paula Kleinman has been practicing family law for over 25 years. She has dedicated her practice to family and mediation, including issues such as divorce, child custody, child support, spousal support, and adoptions. When meeting with clients, Paula takes the time to understand their story from their point of view.
Paula is a hands on attorney who takes pride in seeing her client’s matters from the beginning to end. She works hard to facilitate constant communication with her clients, and is committed to guiding each client through their tough and emotional experiences.
Outside of the office Paula dedicates her time to her 13 year old son. Coming from a large family herself, Paula is family oriented and spends time with her family whenever she can.
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Read Our Legal Blog
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Frequently Asked Questions
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What Is Mediation?
Mediation is a more effective and more amicable way to go through a divorce. Divorce mediation can usually help two spouses get through the divorce process in an expedited fashion and also save them money on court costs and other legal fees associated with the divorce process.
How long does it take to get divorced in
California if both parties agree?
The timeframe of a California divorce process is affected by two principal issues, but is primarily determined by the areas of disagreement between the two spouses. Areas of disagreement between the parties in a divorce must ultimately be resolved before a divorce is completed. California residents who both amicably agree that they’ve reached the end of their marriage, may want to consider resolving their issues via mediation. With the impartial guidance of an attorney trained in mediation, couples can work together to reach a consensus about their divorce terms. They often find that mediation is more advantageous to everyone involved and quicker than resolving it via litigation through the court system
Who Pays For A Divorce In California?
Typically, the petitioner pays to file the petition for dissolution of marriage, and each spouse handles their own attorney fees. There are several types of situations when a judge can order one side to pay the other side’s lawyer’s fees and/or court costs. It’s best to consult a family law attorney to discuss your options. We offer a free 1/2 hour initial consultation. Schedule a time by contacting me online or by calling 760-542-6072.
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