Family Lawyers Handling Jurisdictional Issues In San Diego County

Figuring out where to file a family law action can be difficult, especially if you don’t know the ins and outs of the law as it applies to your situation. Depending on the type of case, the answer of where to file in California could be very different. In fact, it’s not uncommon for different states to have jurisdiction over different issues in the same divorce case.

Take the complexity out of the matter and put it into the hands of an expert at Griffith, Young & Lass. With two certified family law specialists on our staff, we know how to properly address even the most complicated jurisdictional issues.

To reach an attorney at our firm, submit an online contact form here or call us at 858-951-1526.

Proper Jurisdiction In Divorce Cases

In order to file for divorce in California, either you or your spouse must have been a resident of the state for six months and a resident of the filing county for three months immediately prior to filing. Further, if your spouse lives outside of California, there are special rules referred to as “personal jurisdiction” that will also be involved in the matter.

Proper Jurisdiction In Child Support Cases

In order for a court to make an initial order for child support, the court must have jurisdiction over the payer of support – generally the noncustodial parent. If the other parent lives in California, then this is an easy issue. However, if the other parent lives outside of California there are special rules concerning California’s ability to make a child support order in the case.

It is possible that, in some situations, you may have to file for child support in the state where the other parent resides. Our Carlsbad attorneys know the ins and outs of jurisdictional issues in child support cases and can help you prepare for yours.

Proper Jurisdiction In Child Custody Cases

Generally, the state where the child resides will have jurisdiction to make child custody orders in any particular case. In California family law we call the proper jurisdictional state the child’s “home state.” As with every other jurisdictional issue, at times the case will become complicated, with each parent claiming that their state should be the one with jurisdiction.

At GYL, we handle complex jurisdictional cases on a regular basis. We will walk you through the process and give you a realistic opinion with respect to your jurisdictional issue.

Call 858-951-1526 or contact us online to get started.