Divorce Lawyer Serving the Bay Area
Clear Legal Guidance During a Difficult Transition
Divorce is one of the most stressful experiences a person can face — legally, financially, and emotionally. Whether you are considering filing or have already been served with divorce papers, it is normal to feel uncertain about what comes next.
At Castro Law Offices, we represent individuals throughout the Bay Area in both contested and uncontested divorce cases, providing steady guidance and clear communication every step of the way.
We serve clients in English and Spanish.
What a Divorce Lawyer Does for You
A divorce attorney helps you navigate the legal and financial issues that must be resolved before a marriage can be dissolved.
This includes:
Filing or responding to a divorce petition
Negotiating property division
Calculating child and spousal support
Managing mandatory financial disclosures
Addressing child custody and parenting plans
Representing you in mediation or court
Understanding Divorce in California
Most divorce cases follow these stages:
File a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
Serve the other spouse
Exchange mandatory financial disclosures
Negotiate terms or attend mediation
Attend court hearings if disputes remain
Receive the final Judgment of Dissolution
Note: California requires a mandatory six-month waiting period before a divorce can be finalized.
Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce
Uncontested Divorce
Both spouses agree on property, custody, and support. The process is generally faster and less costly.
Contested Divorce
Disagreements over parenting time, finances, or assets may require court hearings and judicial decisions. Jeremy Castro has experience handling both straightforward and complex divorce proceedings throughout the Bay Area.
Key Issues Resolved During Divorce
Divorce affects multiple areas of your life. Understanding these early can help you plan strategically.
Property Division
California is a community property state. Assets and debts acquired during the marriage are generally divided equally unless otherwise agreed.
Child Custody and Parenting Plans
Custody decisions are based on the best interests of the child — weighing stability, safety, and each parent’s involvement. Learn more about child custody →
Child Support
Calculated using a state formula that accounts for income, time-sharing, and other financial factors. We make sure the numbers are accurate and fair.
Spousal Support
May be awarded temporarily or long-term depending on the length of the marriage and each spouse’s financial situation.
Frequently Asked Questions For
Divorce
How long does divorce take in California?
At minimum, six months. Contested cases may take longer depending on complexity and cooperation between parties.
Do I have to go to court?
Not necessarily. Many cases resolve through negotiation or mediation. Court is required only when disputes cannot be settled.
What happens to our home?
If purchased during the marriage, it’s typically community property and subject to equal division unless otherwise agreed.
Can I modify custody or support later?
Yes. If your circumstances change, you may petition the court to modify existing orders.
Why Castro Law Offices
Divorce and Family Law Attorneys
- Serving the entire Bay Area — from Marin County to San Mateo
- Experience in both contested and uncontested matters
- Bilingual representation in English and Spanish
- Clear communication and practical strategy
- Focused on protecting your parental rights and financial future
Facing divorce? You don’t have to navigate it alone
Contact Castro Law Offices to schedule a confidential consultation and take the first step toward clarity and resolution.