Divorce Starts With the Right Divorce Lawyer
Divorce is one of life’s most challenging transitions. At Fischer & Van Thiel, PC, we know you’re not just dealing with a legal process—you’re taking an emotional journey that affects each part of your life and future.
Our Carlsbad divorce attorneys serve clients throughout San Diego County from our convenient offices near or off State Road 78. We combine legal excellence with genuine compassion to guide you through this tough time with purpose and care.
Give Us a Call and Visit Us
Call us at (760) 722-7669 for your consultation. Again, we have several convenient offices in San Diego Country, located off or near S.R. 78 from east to west.
Carlsbad Divorce Guide
Our Approach to Divorce Representation
Divorce isn’t one-size-fits-all. At Fischer & Van Thiel, we tailor our approach to your situation, priorities, and needs.
Personalized Legal Planning
Every marriage and divorce is unique. We take the time to understand your specific situation before developing a legal plan that fits your goals. Whether your case involves detailed assets, children, or high conflict, we create a plan for it.
Balanced Advocacy
We want to resolve divorce matters as amicably as possible, but we never compromise your interests. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who seek efficient, cooperative solutions whenever possible and are always prepared to advocate in court when necessary to protect what matters most to you.
Emotional Support Alongside Legal Guidance
Divorce is more than legal documents and court appearances—it’s a life transition. Our team provides legal experience, emotional intelligence, and support to help you confidently get through this challenging time. We aim to ensure everyone’s interests are covered so they experience a good divorce.
Clear Communication
We know uncertainty adds to the stress of divorce. Throughout your case, you’ll get clear explanations of the legal process, regular updates, and answers to your questions—so you can make informed decisions about your future.
Divorce Services
Uncontested Divorce
When couples can agree on the significant issues, uncontested divorce is a faster, less expensive option.
Our uncontested divorce services include:
- Preparation and filing of all required paperwork
- Review of settlement agreements to protect your interests
- Guidance on legally required disclosures
- Assistance with procedural requirements to ensure proper finalization
- Support in addressing any unexpected issues that arise. Even in amicable situations, having an experienced lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your divorce is finalized.
Contested Divorce
When an agreement can’t be reached through negotiation, our litigators strongly advocate for contested divorces.
Our contested divorce services include:
- Strategic case development and evidence gathering
- Compelling courtroom advocacy
- Preparation for hearings and trials
- Management of complex procedural requirements
- Protection of your interests throughout the process
We always try to find a resolution without unnecessary conflict, but when litigation is necessary, we provide powerful advocacy to get you the best outcome.
High Asset Divorce
Divorces involving significant assets present unique challenges that require specialized knowledge.
Our high-asset divorce services include:
- Identification and valuation of significant assets
- Protection of business interests and professional practices
- Analysis of executive compensation packages
- Division of investment portfolios and retirement accounts
- Management of real estate holdings and other considerable property
- Tax implications in property division
We work with financial analysts, business valuators, and other experts to ensure accurate asset valuation and equal division.
Military Divorce
With our office near Camp Pendleton, we have experience with military divorces.
Our military divorce services address:
- Division of military retirement benefits
- Application of the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act
- Deployment schedules in custody arrangements
- Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) and other military allowances in support calculations
- Jurisdiction issues for military families
We understand the unique aspects of military life and how they impact divorce.
Same-Sex Divorce
Same-sex couples may have specific legal issues in divorce.
Our attorneys provide:
- Property division for relationships that predated legal marriage
- Parental rights issues
- Protection of financial interests
- Understanding of the evolving legal landscape
We are committed to providing knowledgeable and respectful representation to LGBTQ+ clients in divorce.
Divorce Components
Property Division
California’s community property laws dictate that most assets acquired during marriage are divided 50/50—but implementation is never that simple.
Divorce Mediation
For couples seeking more collaborative approaches, we offer divorce mediation services:
- Neutral facilitation of divorce negotiations
- Comprehensive settlement agreements
- Mutually acceptable solutions
- More control over outcomes than litigation
- Often more cost-effective and faster than traditional divorce
Even in mediation, we protect your rights, so a divorce agreement serves your long-term interests and needs.
California Specifics:
- Waiting Period: 6 months from service of papers to finalization.
- Residency: One spouse must have lived in California for 6 months and in the county where filing for 3 months.
- No-Fault State: California is a no-fault divorce state. Neither spouse needs to prove wrongdoing.
- Community Property: California generally splits assets 50/50.
At Fischer & Van Thiel, we guide you through each step of this process with clarity and advocacy.
Why Choose Fischer & Van Thiel for Your Divorce
Experience
Our attorneys focus exclusively on divorce law, so we deeply understand the subtleties that can make a big difference. This means better representation for you.
Strategic Thinking
We identify potential problems before they become problems and develop proactive solutions. This forward-thinking approach often saves clients time, money, and stress.
Skilled Negotiators and Litigators
Not all divorce attorneys are skilled at negotiation and litigation. Our team is strong in both, so we can adjust our approach as your case requires—whether that means crafting creative settlement agreements or delivering compelling courtroom arguments.
Client Focused
We know divorce is personal. You’ll never be just a case number. Our responsive and available approach means you get the attention and support you need throughout the divorce process.
Local Knowledge
Our established presence in San Diego County gives us insight into local courts, judges, and procedures—an advantage that benefits our clients.
Divorce FAQs
How long does divorce take in California?
Typically, it takes 6 months from service of papers to finalization. Simple, uncontested divorces can be completed soon after this waiting period, while complicated or high-conflict divorces can take 12-18 months or longer.
How much will my divorce cost?
Cost varies widely based on the case and conflict level. At your consultation, we’ll discuss factors that impact cost in your situation and strategies for managing legal costs.
Will I have to go to court?
Not always. Many divorces settle without court appearances beyond procedural hearings.
How is property divided in California?
Generally, California divides assets and debts acquired during marriage 50/50 as a community property state.
Can I get alimony (spousal support)?
Eligibility for spousal support depends on the length of the marriage, earning capacity, marital standard of living, and other factors. We can assess your situation and guide you through likely support scenarios in your case.
Contact a Carlsbad Divorce Lawyer at Fischer & Van Thiel Now
Your decisions during divorce will impact your financial and emotional future for years to come. Having the proper legal guidance can make all the difference in achieving outcomes that allow you to move forward positively. Call (760) 722-7669. Contact family law lawyer in Carlsbad at Fischer & Van Thiel, PC now.