Searching for the “Best Same-Sex Divorce Lawyer”?
William O. London
Partner
David J. Steadmon
Taeva Quezada
Rosa Cheng
Proven Same-Sex Divorce Assistance
Divorce is rarely simple. For same-sex couples in Orange County, it often involves unique legal and emotional challenges that require specialized knowledge and experience. At Kimura London & White LLP, we are committed to providing LGBTQ+ individuals and families with comprehensive, compassionate, and results-driven representation. Whether you reside in Orange County or live elsewhere but need legal assistance here, our award-winning law firm is prepared to guide you through every step of the process.
Why Kimura London & White LLP?
At Kimura London & White LLP, we bring unmatched experience, accolades, and advocacy to the table:
- Award-Winning Law Firm: Based in Irvine, our firm is recognized as an Inc. 5,000 company and has been featured in Forbes and Fortune magazine for our excellence in legal services.
- Leadership in Law: Founding partner William “Bill” London has been named one of America's Top 50 Lawyers and is a holder of the Lawyers of Distinction award. With decades of experience, Mr. London has represented high-profile clients in multi-million-dollar cases. His integrity, loyalty, and personalized approach are hallmarks of his practice.
- LGBTQ+ Advocacy: Bill cares about advancing LGBTQ+ rights and ensuring our clients' unique needs are met with skill and sensitivity.
When you choose our firm, you're not just hiring attorneys; you're partnering with a team that genuinely cares about your future.
Unique Legal Considerations in Same-Sex Divorce
Even with marriage equality, same-sex couples face legal complexities in divorce that require experienced navigation.
Child Custody and Parentage
For opposite-sex couples, legal parentage is generally presumed for both parents in a marriage. For same-sex couples, this is not always the case:
- IVF and Surrogacy: If children were conceived via IVF or surrogacy, parentage may not automatically be established for the non-biological parent.
- Adoption Before Marriage: If one spouse legally adopted a child prior to marriage, disputes over custody and visitation rights can arise.
- Legal Safeguards: Establishing legal parentage early ensures smoother custody proceedings in the event of a divorce.
Property Division
California is a community property state, meaning assets acquired during the marriage are typically divided equally. However, unique challenges arise for same-sex couples:
- Pre-Marriage Assets: Couples who shared assets during a long-term partnership before the 2013 legalization of same-sex marriage may face complications in distinguishing marital property from separate property.
- Domestic Partnerships: Many same-sex couples registered as domestic partners prior to marriage. In such cases, the dissolution of both the marriage and the domestic partnership may be required.
Spousal Support and Financial Matters
Spousal support determinations consider various factors, including the length of the marriage, financial interdependence, and contributions made by each spouse. For same-sex couples, these calculations may be complicated by long-term partnerships that predate marriage equality.
How Kimura London & White LLP Can Help
Comprehensive Legal Guidance
We provide tailored strategies to address every aspect of your divorce, from child custody and asset division to spousal support and mediation. Our attorneys have deep experience with the unique legal issues facing same-sex couples and ensure that every detail is handled with precision.
Collaborative Divorce and Mediation
Divorce does not have to be contentious. We offer mediation and collaborative divorce services to help couples resolve disputes amicably, saving time, money, and emotional stress.
LGBTQ+ Advocacy and Resources
Our team is well-versed in LGBTQ+ family law and actively works to support and protect the rights of same-sex couples. We stay up-to-date on evolving laws and legal precedents to ensure our clients receive the best possible representation.
Key Questions to Ask Your Same-Sex Divorce Lawyer
- What is your experience with same-sex divorce cases?
- How do you approach complex issues like IVF, surrogacy, and pre-marriage property?
- Can you handle the dissolution of both a domestic partnership and a marriage?
- What is your fee structure, and do you offer mediation services?
- Are you connected with LGBTQ+ advocacy groups or resources?
Choosing the right attorney is critical. At Kimura London & White LLP, we are proud to answer these questions with confidence, offering our clients unparalleled expertise and support.
FAQs About Same-Sex Divorce in Orange County
How is property divided in a same-sex divorce?
California law treats marital assets equally, but complications arise when pre-marriage assets or long-term partnerships are involved. Our attorneys are skilled in untangling these issues to ensure equitable outcomes.
Can one attorney represent both spouses in a divorce?
No. California law prohibits an attorney from representing both parties in a divorce due to conflicts of interest. Each spouse must have independent legal representation.
Do I need to dissolve a domestic partnership along with my marriage?
Yes, if you registered as domestic partners before marriage, both must be dissolved. Our attorneys can guide you through this dual process.
How can I protect my parental rights during a same-sex divorce?
Establishing legal parentage is essential. We can help you take proactive steps to secure your parental rights, minimizing the risk of disputes.
Take the First Step Toward Resolution
Divorce is an emotional and complex process, but with the right legal representation, you can move forward confidently. At Kimura London & White LLP, we are here to help you navigate this journey with compassion, expertise, and unwavering commitment to your best interests.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced same-sex divorce attorneys. Whether you're facing custody disputes, property division, or spousal support issues, our team will provide the authoritative guidance you need to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
Let Kimura London & White LLP be your trusted partner in this challenging time. Reach out now to begin building a brighter future.