Anxious couple meeting with a lawyer to discuss an uncontested divorce

Ending a marriage is never easy or without remorse. However, an uncontested divorce is a less expensive and potentially more amicable way for couples to move on in the state of California. That’s where Dorit Goikhman, Esq. comes in. When you meet with us, we will explain the uncontested divorce process and develop a well-conceived strategy to achieve your objectives. 

Founder Dorit L. Goikhman is an experienced divorce attorney and mediator well-versed in the applicable domestic relations laws who guides clients through all aspects of uncontested divorce. She offers trustworthy guidance, emotional support, and cost-effective service. Contact Dorit today to set up a free initial consultation by calling 866-223-4153 or book a session. Based in Palo Alto, CA, we serve clients by filing for an uncontested divorce wherever they reside in California.

Why Dorit L. Goikhman, Esq.?

In recent times, many people wish to separate or divorce without the drama and expense of a litigation divorce. Instead, many people in California wish for an amicable divorce (especially because of the high cost of living in the state). The best option for people seeking an amicable separation or an amicable divorce is an uncontested divorce. 

An uncontested divorce can help avoid the pitfalls of a protracted legal dispute. Working with an experienced divorce attorney is the best way to protect your rights and interests and find amicable solutions. You can trust Dorit L. Goikhman to help you file your California uncontested divorce, avoid litigation, and move on to the next chapter in your life. 

About Uncontested Divorces in California 

An uncontested divorce is one in which the parties agree on the key issues. Their attorneys tell the court how the couple will resolve any issues, and do not ask for court intervention on any matter. In an uncontested divorce, the parties will have the option of mediating any issues, if needed, before the filing. 

As a divorce mediator, Dorit works closely with the parties if mediation is needed. In mediation, the parties can sort out the relevant issues, including:

  • Division of property
  • Spousal support
  • Child custody, child visitation, and parenting time
  • Child support

The parties must negotiate in good faith and work together to reach an agreement before the court will grant the divorce. To determine whether uncontested divorce is the best option for you, talk to our experienced divorce attorney and family mediator today.

Division of Property

California is a community property state, meaning that all marital or “community” property acquired by either spouse during the marriage (e.g. real estate, capital gains, retirement benefits, and other assets) will be split equally. However, there are many exceptions to this rule. Dori is experienced with the nuances of dividing property throughout California, particularly in the greater Bay Area. You can depend on Dorit to find mutually beneficial solutions and protect your property rights. 

Spousal Support

Spousal support can become a bitterly contested issue in divorce cases; however, mediation offers the parties an off-ramp where they can work toward a mutual agreement. Generally, there are two types of support – temporary and permanent. Dorit will work with you to explore all your options and help secure your financial future. The parties’ spousal support agreement can then be filed with the court as part of the uncontested divorce process. 

Child Custody

If the parties have children, the parties must reach an agreement on a parenting plan before the courts in Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties will grant an uncontested divorce. This is also the case throughout all of California. Child custody mediation is mandatory if parents cannot agree on custody and visitation. As a child custody mediator, Dorit:

  • Helps parties communicate effectively – Dorit helps parents voice their concerns and priorities regarding child custody and visitation arrangements clearly and respectfully.
  • Facilitates the negotiation process – She guides parents through the negotiation process, helping them to identify common ground and reach a mutually acceptable agreement.
  • Makes recommendations – Dorit makes recommendations based on what she believes is in the best interest of the children.
  • Provides information – Dorit provides her clients with information about the legal and practical aspects of child custody and visitation arrangements but does not offer legal advice.

Let Dori help you design a parenting plan that meets court approval in your uncontested divorce. 

What Are The Benefits of Uncontested Divorce?

An uncontested divorce in California offers several benefits. First, the process is less adversarial, less time-consuming, and less expensive than a litigated divorce, which involves court filings and appearances, phone calls, correspondence, legal fees, and out-of-pocket expenses. The parties can save money by avoiding the discovery process.

Importantly, an uncontested divorce is less burdensome for the family, particularly in cases involving minor children. When parents cooperate during and after the divorce, children may experience less of the emotional harm typically associated with divorce.

Ultimately, an uncontested allows the parties to move on with their lives swiftly and efficiently and even without acrimony. For an uncontested divorce to work, both parties must be willing to move forward and cooperate. They must negotiate in good faith to mutually agree on property, support, and parenting. 

Working with Dorit L. Goikhman will help you achieve the best possible outcome. Dorit is not only an experienced family law attorney but also an empathic person devoted to mediating disputes professionally, expediently, and amicably.

How Long Does an Uncontested Divorce Take?

An uncontested divorce in California takes a minimum of 6 months. This is because California has a 6 month mandatory “cooling” period. This waiting period is mandatory, and cannot be waived by the parties. However, your participation in the divorce process will only take a few hours spread out over several sessions. Sometimes, the parties can resolve all of their issues in a single session, and wait for the divorce to process. Trust us to guide you every step of the way. 

Service Areas

Off The Record Mediation Services, LLC helps customers throughout the Central California and San Francisco Bay area, including:

  • San Mateo County
  • Orange County
  • Santa Clara County
  • Marin County
  • Contra Costa County
  • Alameda County
  • Solano County
  • Napa County
  • Sonoma County
  • San Francisco
  • Oakland
  • San Jose
  • Fremont
  • Santa Cruz
  • Santa Rosa
  • Stockton
  • Sacramento
  • Modesto
  • Mountain View
  • Palo Alto
  • Berkeley
  • Monterey
  • and more…

Contact Our Experienced Santa Clara/San Mateo Divorce Attorney and Mediator

Dori Goikhman provides clients with innovative solutions and informed guidance about uncontested divorce. When you work with us, you will have comfort with our capable divorce mediator by your side. If you reside in Central California, do not hesitate to contact us for help. We can help walk you through this stage of your life.

To schedule a free 30-minute consultation to discuss uncontested divorce, call our office at 866-223-4153 or schedule a free consultation online today.