California is a community property state, which means most assets acquired during the marriage are considered jointly owned, regardless of who earned the income or whose name is on the title. While this law sounds straightforward, the reality is rarely simple.
We help you understand:
What qualifies as community property
What remains your separate property
What happens when the two become mixed
How to protect assets that matter most to you
Every marriage is unique. Every financial picture is different. You deserve a personalized strategy that reflects your goals. For more information visit the California Courts overview page.
Your separate property typically includes:
Assets you owned before marriage
Inheritances
Gifts made directly to you
Compensation for personal injuries
Certain business interests
The challenge? Separate property can lose its protection if it becomes commingled.
For example:
Adding your spouse’s name to a premarital home
Depositing inheritance funds into a joint account
Using marital funds to improve a premarital asset
We help you trace, document, and protect what is rightfully yours.
High-asset divorces require a level of experience and precision that goes far beyond splitting a checking account. Our team regularly handles cases involving:
Business ownership and valuations
Professional practices
Multiple real estate properties
Investment and retirement portfolios
Tracing separate vs. community contributions
Stock options, RSUs, and deferred compensation
Forensic accounting
Hidden or undisclosed assets
When the financial stakes are high, you need a legal team that understands both the law and the numbers.
We build strategies around clarity, transparency, and long-term stability. Our approach includes:
Thorough financial reviews and documentation
Collaboration with CPAs, appraisers, and forensic experts
Strong negotiation backed by litigation experience
A clear plan designed around your goals, not just your assets
Our attorneys know how to advocate firmly while keeping the process moving, reducing stress, conflict, and unnecessary costs wherever possible.
While every divorce is different, most California property division cases follow a similar path:
1. Identify All Assets and Debts
Everything must be disclosed fully and accurately.
2. Distinguish Community vs. Separate Property
This is where tracing and documentation become essential.
3. Determine Accurate Valuations
Homes, businesses, investments, and retirement accounts are valued using industry-standard methods.
4. Negotiate Distribution or Prepare for Trial
Most cases settle. But if yours requires court, you’ll have a team ready to fight for your goals.
5. Finalize Orders and Protect Your Future
We make sure the final division is enforceable and protects your long-term interest