San Diego Divorce Lawyers You Can Trust
Divorce is one of the most life-altering legal processes. At Livingstone Law, we bring 30 years of litigation experience to every divorce case — from amicable settlements to aggressive litigation. Whether your case involves real estate, children, or high-value assets, our board-certified team is here to protect your future.
Types of Divorce Cases We Handle
Contested Divorce
A contested divorce refers to a legal process where spouses cannot reach an agreement on one or more issues related to their divorce. Whether your case involves high-value assets, complex business interests, or sensitive child custody issues, we provide the aggressive representation and strategic counsel necessary to protect your rights and achieve the best possible resolution in your contested divorce proceeding.
Uncontested Divorce
An uncontested divorce refers to a legal process where spouses reach an agreement on all issues. We handle all aspects of uncontested divorce cases, from initial petition filing through final judgment, allowing couples to dissolve their marriage with minimal court involvement, reduced legal fees, and faster resolution times compared to traditional contested divorce proceedings.
High Asset Divorce
A high asset divorce occurs when individuals with significant financial assets, investments, businesses, and properties end their marriage. Our experienced attorneys work diligently to identify and protect all community and separate property interests to achieve the most favorable outcome for our clients.
Military Divorce
Military divorce adds an additional layer of procedural complexity not present in civilian cases, as attorneys and courts must ensure compliance with both California family law and federal military statutes. Experienced attorneys at Livingstone Law understand the complexities of these cases and have 30 years of litigating military divorces.
Same-Sex Divorce
Our firm provides comprehensive legal representation for same-sex couples seeking divorce, legal separation, or nullity proceedings in California. We understand the unique legal landscape surrounding same-sex marriage dissolution and are committed to protecting your rights throughout the process.
Divorce Involving Business or Real Estate
Our attorneys are well-versed in the various methods courts may employ to divide such assets, including division in kind, asset distribution or cash-out arrangements, sale and division of proceeds, or conversion to tenancy in common. We also handle the critical timing issues surrounding asset valuation. Our team provides comprehensive representation designed to protect our client’s interests while navigating California’s community property framework.
Divorce with Narcissistic or High-Conflict Spouses
Our team maintains the highest ethical standards while zealously advocating for our clients, ensuring that manipulative tactics do not compromise the legal process or our professional obligations. We leverage California's no-fault divorce framework to focus on equitable outcomes rather than allowing high-conflict dynamics to derail proceedings. Through strategic case management and comprehensive understanding of California family law, we work to level the playing field and secure fair resolutions for clients facing the particular challenges that narcissistic or high-conflict spouses present in dissolution proceedings.
Why Clients Choose Livingstone Law for Divorce Representation
30 Years of Litigation Experience
Strategic and Aggressive When Needed
Focus on High-Net-Worth and Complex Cases
Attorneys Personally Handle Your Case
Referred by Judges and Past Clients
Our Divorce Process: A Step By Step Guide
Confidential Consultation
Your divorce journey begins with a completely confidential consultation where we discuss your unique situation. During this initial meeting, we listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and explain your legal rights under California law. Everything you share with us is protected by attorney-client privilege, ensuring your privacy as you explore your options. We understand that divorce is deeply personal, and we respect your need for discretion throughout this process.
Case Evaluation and Strategy
After our initial consultation, we develop a customized legal strategy tailored to your specific goals and circumstances. Whether you’re seeking an amicable resolution or preparing for contested proceedings, we create a roadmap that prioritizes your interests and those of your children.
Filing and Service
When you're ready to proceed, we prepare and file your divorce petition with the appropriate California court. The petition formally initiates your divorce proceedings and establishes the legal framework for resolving all marital issues. We then arrange for proper service of the divorce papers on your spouse, ensuring compliance with California's strict service requirements. This step officially notifies your spouse of the divorce action and triggers important legal deadlines and automatic restraining orders that protect both parties during the proceedings.
Temporary Orders (if needed)
California law automatically implements certain restraining orders when divorce papers are served, preventing both spouses from disposing of assets or taking children out of state without permission. If you need additional protection or support during your divorce, we can request temporary orders for spousal support, child support, custody arrangements, or exclusive use of the family home. These temporary measures provide stability and financial security while your divorce is pending, ensuring your immediate needs are addressed.
Discovery and Financial Disclosure
We guide you through this discovery process, helping you gather and organize all necessary financial documents, including bank statements, tax returns, property valuations, and retirement account information. We also review your spouse's disclosures to ensure full transparency. This comprehensive financial picture is essential for achieving fair property division and appropriate support arrangements in your divorce settlement.
Mediation or Litigation
Many California divorces are resolved through mediation or collaborative processes, which can save time, money, and emotional stress. We represent your interests during these negotiations, working toward mutually acceptable agreements on all divorce-related issues. If settlement isn't possible, we're fully prepared to litigate your case in court. Our experienced trial attorneys present compelling arguments to protect your rights and achieve favorable outcomes in contested divorce proceedings.
Final Judgement and Post-Divorce Orders
Once all issues are resolved through settlement or trial, the court issues a final judgment of dissolution, officially ending your marriage. We ensure all necessary paperwork is properly filed and that you understand your rights and obligations under the final orders. If circumstances change after your divorce is finalized, we can help you seek modifications to custody, support, or other arrangements. We also assist with enforcement of court orders when necessary.
Our San Diego divorce lawyers are here to help you every step of the way. We will take the time to get to know you and your unique situation. We will work tirelessly to ensure that you are always taken care of and that your best interests are always our top priority. We are here to help.
