Divorce Attorney in Orange County
Helping Clients Navigate Divorce throughout Orange County
The Neshanian Law Firm, Inc. provides knowledgeable representation to clients throughout the region in divorce matters. A compassionate lawyer and experienced negotiator, Attorney Amy Neshanian recognizes the uncertainty clients face and works diligently to resolve your case effectively and efficiently through settlement negotiations.
We address each case with focused attention on your personal goals and challenges. Our team brings substantial experience handling divorces filed with the Orange County Superior Court, which serves residents in Irvine and neighboring communities. We guide clients through each phase, from petition filings to final judgment, clarifying important deadlines and court procedures along the way. Orange County clients benefit from our in-depth understanding of local court practices, case management procedures, and convenient access to area resources such as the Lamoreaux Justice Center.
When a spouse refuses to negotiate in good faith, fails to disclose assets, acts unreasonably, or, in cases involving domestic violence, our attorneys have the litigation experience needed to protect your interests in court.
Please contact The Neshanian Law Firm, Inc at (949) 577-7935 to make an appointment for a comprehensive consultation with our trusted divorce lawyer in Orange County.
What You Can Expect
During your consultation, we meet with you to understand your needs, concerns, and goals, identify potentially contentious issues, and discuss strategies to help reach a fair and just result. We also offer complimentary 15-minute phone consultations for new clients.
Clients often want to know what steps to take after filing for divorce, how their case will progress through the Orange County courts, and what to bring to mediation or hearings. We walk you through each requirement, including financial disclosures, asset documentation, and parenting plan details when children are involved. This early preparation helps minimize surprises and ensures you are ready for every step ahead.
Irvine divorce attorney Amy Neshanian focuses on delivering personalized, high-quality representation so you stay informed about your legal options and potential outcomes. This approach empowers you to make sound, confident decisions throughout the process.
Grounds for Divorce in California
As a no-fault state, California does not require you to cite a specific reason to end your marriage. You only need to state that “irreconcilable differences” exist and that you and your spouse will not reconcile. In some instances, conduct may factor into decisions about property division or spousal support.
Applicants must meet residency requirements to file for divorce. In California, at least one party must have lived in the state for six months and in the filing county for three months before beginning the divorce action.
How Long Does It Take to Finalize a Divorce?
The length of the divorce process depends on your case's unique facts. Some cases resolve quickly, sometimes in as little as six months. Others may last up to a year or longer if both spouses cannot agree on the terms. California law requires that both parties wait at least six months from the date the respondent is served before finalizing the divorce.
Divorces handled in the Orange County Superior Court may be affected by local scheduling and court calendars. We guide clients to stay organized, which can help streamline court appearances and reduce delays. Focusing early on collecting all required documents often makes the process move more smoothly.
Is California a 50/50 Divorce State?
California follows community property rules, meaning all property you or your spouse acquires during marriage belongs equally to both parties.
Generally, when you divorce in California, property is divided equally. Some exceptions apply—property obtained before marriage or after separation is usually not considered community property, so it may not be split equally.
The court can divide property differently if fairness requires it in unusual cases.
If you are thinking about divorce in California, consult with a divorce lawyer to discuss your circumstances and the legal factors that affect your case.
Providing Strong Legal Representation
California lets parties end their marriage or domestic partnership due to irreconcilable differences without proving fault. This approach means either spouse can initiate divorce, regardless of the other’s wishes.
The Neshanian Law Firm, Inc. represents clients in a broad range of cases, including the following:
- Contested divorces
- Uncontested divorces
- Dissolution of domestic partnerships
- High-asset, complex divorces
- Same-sex divorce cases
- Uncontested divorces
We help people in Irvine and Orange County who are ending relationships work through related issues such as property division, child custody and visitation, and support arrangements. Our approach outlines each phase so clients can make informed decisions. With clear communication, we address specific concerns—whether focused on parenting, financial well-being, or understanding how state law applies to your situation.
An annulment may be available if your circumstances meet state requirements. For details about qualifying for an annulment, contact Irvine divorce attorney Amy Neshanian at (949) 577-7935 to schedule your consultation.
If you and your spouse entered into a domestic partnership before marriage, you must dissolve the partnership according to state rules before you can file for divorce.
Anyone seeking an annulment, dissolution, or divorce in California must have lived in the state for at least six months before filing, and at least one party must also have resided in the filing county for three months.
The Divorce Process Step by Step in Irvine
Deciding to begin a divorce involves several steps, each with specific requirements for Orange County residents. The process often starts when one party files a petition for dissolution of marriage at the Lamoreaux Justice Center, which serves Irvine and surrounding cities. After filing, the initiating spouse arranges service of papers to the other party, who then has an opportunity to respond. Clear communication and prompt attention to all court notifications can help reduce unnecessary delays.
Both spouses exchange required financial disclosures, which creates transparency on assets, liabilities, income, and expenses. The court may encourage mediation or settlement conferences to help resolve outstanding issues and keep the process efficient. If couples cannot resolve disputes—such as property division or child custody—the case moves to hearings or trial for final determinations. Our team keeps clients informed of each phase, ensuring they understand both the state and local practices that may affect their Irvine family law case.
Client Experiences and Stories
Hear from Those We've Helped
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the residency requirement affect filing for divorce in Irvine?
To file for divorce in California, at least one spouse must have lived in California for six months and in Orange County for at least three months before filing. Meeting these requirements is necessary to file in the local family law court that serves Irvine.
Where are divorce cases heard for residents of Irvine?
Most divorce cases for Irvine residents go through the Lamoreaux Justice Center, the Orange County Superior Court’s dedicated family law courthouse. This location processes filings and schedules hearings for couples in Irvine and the surrounding areas.
Can I handle my divorce if my spouse and I agree on everything?
When both spouses reach an agreement on all divorce-related issues, they can typically pursue an uncontested divorce. The court will still review the case to ensure all forms are complete and all agreements meet legal requirements.
-
"I had the privilege of working with Neshanian Law Firm during an extremely challenging divorce"If you are seeking a dedicated, compassionate and highly skilled divorce attorney, I wholeheartedly recommend Amy and Neshanian Law firm.- Jeff
-
"Don’t think twice about putting your future in their hands. You won’t regret it!"You will feel safe, protected and relived to have Neshanian Law Firm on your side through this difficult time.- Sanaz D.
-
"Amy was easy to work with and a very knowledgeable and capable attorney."She earned my trust and appreciation in handling a complex matter to a favorable resolution.- Julie S.
-
"She fights for her cases, she puts who whole heart into it"She comes highly recommended and you are crazy not to use her!- Kenya R.
-
"You want an attorney that will aggressively represent you."Neshanian Law Firm provides the highest level of professionalism and expert representation in even the most frustrating of cases- Will D.
-
"Ms. Neshanian's ability to fight hard while keeping a keen eye on the facts and the small details."They are also very nice people and easy to work with. I achieved excellent results.- Michael F.
-
"Amy is the best!!! She helped me get through my divorce with ease."Everyone in her office are readily available for any questions and very professional.- Former Client
-
"Ms. Neshanian and her team demonstrated exceptional professionalism and responsiveness"Their commitment to detail, coupled with a genuinely caring approach, made a challenging situation much more manageable.- Rob O.
Contact Our Irvine Divorce Attorneys for a Personal Consultation
Whether you seek an annulment, want to dissolve a domestic partnership, or need help with divorce, Attorney Amy Neshanian provides effective, compassionate legal representation. We also offer assistance with legal separation, child support, post-judgment modification, spousal support, property division, civil harassment restraining orders, and other family law matters. The Neshanian Law Firm, Inc. guides you through your options and advocates for your interests at every stage.
Our office sits close to the Lamoreaux Justice Center, the main family law courthouse in Orange County. Practicing locally allows us to stay up-to-date on any changes affecting divorce processes or court timelines in Irvine. We support area clients in person and over the phone, making legal guidance accessible even for those with demanding schedules. For greater accessibility, we provide services in both English and Armenian.
Understanding Child Custody & Support in Orange County
Child custody and support arrangements are key concerns for many families in Irvine. Judges make custody decisions with the child’s best interests in mind, weighing factors like the child's safety, well-being, and the strength of each parent-child relationship. While California sets baseline formulas for child support, courts may adjust calculations to reflect Orange County’s cost of living or nuances in a family’s daily routines.
We encourage parents to discuss parenting plans and work toward practical, forward-looking solutions for their children. When parents reach agreements on custody and support, cases often move faster. For those who need court guidance, the Orange County Superior Court offers resources that address the distinct realities families in Irvine face. We help clients create clear plans that foster their children's well-being while working within local expectations and cost considerations.
For immediate assistance, call (949) 577-7935. Devoted solely to the practice of family law, our attorneys have represented clients in Irvine and nearby communities since 2005. As results-focused lawyers, we pursue lasting solutions and strive to deliver high-caliber legal guidance and representation.
Call (949) 577-7935 today to obtain answers to all of your divorce and family law-related questions.
-
Aggressive RepresentationWe are committed to protecting your families best interest & will go to court to fight for you.
-
Client FocusedWe make our clients our priority and ensure they get the personalized attention they need.
-
CertifiedAttorney Amy Neshanian is a Certified Family Law Specialist & exclusively devotes her practice to helping families.
-
ExperienceOur Attorneys have over 45 years of combined experience in handling family law matters.
