Skip to Content
Top
Contested Vs. Uncontested Divorce Backed by 100+ Years' Experience

Will Your Divorce Be Contested Or Uncontested?

Our Newport Beach Uncontested Divorce Attorneys Can Help

Every divorce is a lawsuit that results in court orders applicable to both parties. However, the vast majority of California divorce cases settle out of court through negotiation or mediation leading to settlement of all key issues.

Couples able to resolve any disagreements involving children, support, property and other matters on their own or through their attorneys can file for uncontested divorce. Those who cannot reach agreement face the possibility of a full-blown contested divorce trial. An extremely high percentage of divorces fall in between these two scenarios — with the skill and efficiency of the lawyers involved playing a vital role in formation of a comprehensive marital settlement agreement.

Proven Lawyers For Guidance, Negotiation, Mediation Or Litigation

Our dedicated Newport Beach uncontested divorce attorneys at the Burch Shepard Family Law Group, counsel and represent people in all aspects of both uncontested and contested divorce cases.

Our knowledge and capabilities extend across the spectrum of:

  • Guiding couples who are separating amicably and agree on all issues through the legal steps necessary to finalize their divorce as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible.
  • Negotiating skillfully and assertively to protect our clients' interests when key issues — often involving child custody and visitation, child support, spousal support and division of assets and debts — are contested and must be resolved.
  • Providing impeccably prepared, tenacious representation in court when agreement on critical issues cannot be reached through negotiation or mediation.

Does Your Case Involve Complex Disputed Issues?

Our accomplished Newport Beach uncontested divorce attorneys have built a widespread reputation for handling all types of divorce cases with integrity. We bring a balanced approach to each case and focus on helping our clients find the path to resolution best suited to their present and future goals.

If your situation is complex, emotionally volatile or both, and you may need a proven Orange County uncontested divorce lawyer on your side in court, our firm is an outstanding resource. we have helped many people avoid the costs and pain of litigation, but we have also triumphed at trial for our clients in numerous cases involving intensely contested child custody, millions in disputed assets, allegations of domestic violence and other matters requiring resolution.

Related Reading

To schedule a consultation focused on your needs and goals, call us at (949) 565-4158 today.

  • Super Lawyers
  • OC Metro Top Attorneys
  • Certified California Family Law Specialists
  • Cover Feature - Law Firm of the Month
  • Best of the City
  • “Thank you for all of your guidance and support through this journey!”
    I just wanted to send you a HUGE thank you for all of your support through this process. I am thrilled with the outcome today and so relieved that this is coming to a close. Thank you for all of your guidance and support through this journey.
    Former Client
  • “I would not hesitate to recommend Courtney Shepard and her team to anyone in need of quality representation in their divorce.”
    “They made the divorce process so much less stressful than it could have been. I would not hesitate to recommend Courtney Shepard and her team to anyone in need of quality representation in their divorce.”
    Former Client
  • “A brilliantly educated pit bull”
    “True brilliance in action is a site to behold. At this point I am comfortable with everything she was able to help me with, and I know that she will be the first call I make, if I have any other future issues that require the courts intervention.”
    Former Client
  • “THANK YOU ALL FOR EVERYTHING.”
    I am thankful for a attorney Robert, for his wonderful representation. His professionalism, and the way he carries himself with so much authority and knowledge is making this process run Smoothly. The delay in the process has given my children and I time, space, peace of mind and the healing we needed so much, thank you. God knows the right timing and the right results and He sends us the right persons to work things out. You are all a team of wonderful people. Thank you.
    Former Client

Divorce FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About California Divorce
  • Do I Have to be a California Resident to Divorce Here?
    To file for divorce, you must be able to prove California residency for six months and residency in the county where you file for at least three months. The respondent or "defendant" spouse in a divorce case does not have to be a California resident, however.
  • What are Some of the Key Early Steps in the Divorce Process, and How Long Does it Take?

    Divorce proceedings begin when either spouse files a petition that is served on the other. The person served then has 30 days to file a response, or the case proceeds without that response toward a likely final judgment about six months later.

    If there is a response, the parties begin the process of exchanging information and, typically, attempting to negotiate a marital settlement agreement either on their own or in a mandatory conference in court. Every case is different, and the entire process can take anywhere from months to several years.

  • Do I Need to Prove My Spouse Is at Fault for Causing the Divorce?
    No. California is a "no fault" divorce state. Grounds for divorce are not considered, although the court may consider many factors when issuing orders on child custody and other issues.
  • How Do I Get Started if I Have Decided I Want a Divorce — or a Legal Separation?

    Our divorce attorneys strongly encourage you to contact an experienced, qualified lawyer — ideally, one who focuses exclusively on family law. Pursuing a do-it-yourself divorce is legal but filled with traps and potential complications.

    At the Burch Shepard Family Law Group, our Orange County divorce lawyers have guided many hundreds of men and women through divorces of all levels of complexity. We emphasize preparation and results, always putting our clients' needs and best interests first.

Put the Experts In Your Corner Backed by 100+ Years' Experience

Contact Us Today

We’re Ready to Help
  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from Burch Shepard Family Law Group at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy