Alameda County Contested Divorce Lawyer

Contested Divorce Lawyer Alameda County, CA

Divorces are complicated. They come in all shapes and sizes and can vary in their complexity. Some divorces involve two spouses who agree to the divorce. In other instances, perhaps even more than uncontested divorces, are contested divorces.

As a leading contested divorce lawyer in Alameda County, CA, we know how messy a contested divorce can get. If you are in this situation, or headed that way, please don’t waste any more time thinking about what you should do. Contact Attorney Bernie now for help.

Uncontested vs. Contested Divorce

When at least one spouse involved in the divorce contests at least one issue that needs to be resolved as part of the process, it is a contested divorce. Whereas, an uncontested divorce can occur when both spouses agree on all terms. An uncontested divorce is typically less costly and can be processed more quickly than a contested divorce. Despite this, over half of all divorces are contested.

That said, as an Alameda County, CA contested divorce lawyer might explain to you, having a contested divorce isn’t a bad thing. It doesn’t mean something is different with your divorce. It’s actually common. In fact, sometimes it’s recommended. For example, if a spouse is abusive, a narcissist, or has been unfaithful, a contested divorce may help to protect the other party’s finances, rights, and interests.

Why File a Contested Divorce

There are a broad range of issues that may result in a contested divorce. Virtually anything that involves a dispute, disagreement, or contention can lead to this outcome. For instance, who gets the house, who will get custody of the children, or how the finances will be split are all examples of reasons to have a contested divorce. The following are some of the primary reasons to contest a divorce. In these scenarios you would want to consult a contested divorce lawyer in Alameda County, CA.

Assets Have Been Concealed

It is very common for spouses to hide things from one another during a marriage or when divorcing. When a spouse conceals assets, the judge cannot value these items and take them into account when choosing how to divide the property. Assets can also impact spousal maintenance or child support. A contested divorce is litigated, this means each spouse has access to discovery tools that help to identify any and all assets in question.

Children Are Involved

When children are involved, and the parents cannot agree on parenting time or other issues, a contested divorce may be required. This means the judge will make a decision based on the best interest of the child or children. The process takes into consideration many things including the parent’s ability to provide for the child, past acts or omissions by a parent that suggest trouble with the relationship, as well as the emotions and wishes of the child.

Spousal Maintenance

Following a divorce, spousal maintenance is often necessary. It is very common for the paying spouse to disagree about having to pay this. As a contested divorce lawyer in Alameda County, CA will tell you, the party seeking the support must prove to the court that he or she gave up financial opportunities during the marriage. This is not limited to a job or career, but also schooling, impairment, or caring for a child.

Abuse in the Marriage

There are too many divorces that include abuse. While divorcing an abusive partner can bring light to a troubled situation, it can be difficult. Abusive spouses may also try to interfere with the proceeding. Because of this, it is highly recommended to consult with an Alameda County, California contested divorce lawyer.

Spouse is Unwilling to Compromise 

Sometimes, a spouse assumes he or she is entitled to unreasonable terms. In this case, resolving conflicts might feel very difficult. A contested divorce, no matter how cumbersome it might seem, may be the best solution.

What To Expect During a Contested Divorce

A contested divorce is one of the most difficult challenges a divorcing couple may face, because it commonly means one or both parties doesn’t want to let go. What does that mean? Working with your spouse to move through a divorce can be difficult, but when either of you decides to fight how the split of items, children, or assets will proceed, the divorce can suddenly enter a difficult phase. This occurs when either of you disagrees on issues related to the divorce. Here are a few things you can expect during a contested divorce and why you should hire a contested divorce lawyer in Alameda County, CA.

Contested Means Lengthy

When separating parties cannot agree on various aspects of a divorce, they often experience the snowball effect of growing anger, resentment, and pain. As time drags on while the parties dispute property division, lawyers such as those from Attorney Bernie work on cash dispersal, asset distribution, and child custody arrangements. This back-and-forth between legal counsels and the parties can go on for months during a contested divorce as they work through many of the following proceedings:

• Petitions are filed with the court.
• Negotiations begin in an effort to settle contested issues.
• Proposals are presented that include court hearings and filed motions.
• Discovery and depositions proceed under oath to help settle disputes.
• Interviews and investigations begin to look into negative allegations.

As both of you continue to argue over property, cash, and assets, time can drag on. Some highly publicized disputed divorce proceedings have taken years to settle. That is why hiring a contested divorce lawyer in Alameda County, CA, is such a critical step when there is a divorce disagreement.

Contested Ends in Trial

If your Attorney Bernie lawyer is unable to mediate a settlement with your soon-to-be-ex’s representative, the divorce proceedings move into the next phase — trial. Your legal counsel will cross-examine witnesses and introduce any new relevant information to the judge as legal arguments begin. The case will then be turned over to the judge for a decisive ruling, and whether you like that decision or not, your divorce will then be final.

Contested Implies Complex

Contested divorces are complex legal proceedings. To protect yourself and your future, locate an experienced contested divorce lawyer in Alameda County, CA. With a qualified legal team on your side, you can ensure your legal rights are protected during the long legal battle.

Attorney Bernie: Your Contested Divorce Law Firm

Divorce is a very arduous process. To ensure your goals, rights, and interests are fully considered, contact a contested divorce lawyer in Alameda County, CA, such as Attorney Bernie.

Listen to Attorney Bernie Discuss How to Meet Clients Where They Are In the Divorce Process

Types Of Contested Divorce Cases We Handle

Divorces are rarely simple, especially when disagreements arise over key issues. As your Alameda County, CA contested divorce lawyer, we handle a wide range of disputes that require skilled negotiation and, at times, courtroom representation. Attorney Bernie is board-certified by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization and responds to all inquiries within 24 hours—when you work you with, you can be sure you’re getting a knowledgeable attorney who cares about your case. We understand that divorce isn’t just about the paperwork—it’s about protecting your future and your family.

High-Conflict Custody Cases

When parents can’t agree on custody or parenting time, emotions can run high. Our child custody dispute lawyer works to support parents through these cases with clear guidance and strategic planning to help resolve disagreements involving decision-making, living arrangements, and more.

Property Division Disputes

Some couples struggle to fairly divide assets like real estate, investments, retirement accounts, or business interests. Our property division attorney helps sort through financial records, asset valuations, and ownership rights to present a fair picture to the court or in settlement talks.

Spousal Support Litigation

Determining spousal support can be challenging when spouses disagree about income, lifestyle, or financial needs. We approach each case by evaluating financial records and presenting arguments supported by California law. Our Alameda County contested divorce attorney works to achieve fair and lasting resolutions.

Divorce Involving Business Ownership

When one or both spouses own a business, dividing the value and control can become highly disputed. We collaborate with financial professionals and appraisers to assess the business accurately and advocate for equitable solutions during settlement or trial.

Contested Prenuptial Agreements

Sometimes, one spouse challenges the validity or fairness of a prenuptial agreement. Whether enforcing or disputing a prenup, our legal team reviews the agreement’s terms and the circumstances around its creation to advise our clients effectively.

Hidden Asset Allegations

In cases where one party is suspected of hiding assets or income, uncovering the truth is essential. We use discovery tools, subpoenas, and financial audits to pursue full transparency so that our clients receive a fair outcome.

Same-Sex Divorce Disputes

While same-sex couples face many of the same legal issues as heterosexual couples, certain disputes—such as those involving parentage or property acquired before marriage equality—require focused attention. Our team handles these cases with care, clarity, and legal precision.

Divorce Requiring Trial

Not all divorces can be settled outside of court. When trial becomes necessary, our divorce trial lawyer prepares detailed evidence and presents a strong case to the judge. We’re committed to providing clear communication throughout the process so you know where your case stands.

High-Conflict Personalities

Some contested divorces are made harder by one spouse’s behavior—refusing to cooperate, creating delays, or using the process to cause distress. Our high-conflict divorce attorney is experienced in managing these challenges with professionalism and strategic focus.

Spousal Relocation And Custody Modifications

Post-divorce issues can arise when one parent wants to move with a child. We handle relocation cases and custody modification requests, helping clients present the facts to the court and advocate for workable, child-focused solutions.

Every divorce case is different, and we’re here to help you address the issues that matter most. If you’re facing disputes over custody, assets, or support, our Alameda County contested divorce attorney can help you move forward with clarity and confidence. Contact Attorney Bernie today to schedule your consultation.

Common Examples Of Contested Divorce Cases

If you’re facing a difficult separation, working with our Alameda County, CA contested divorce lawyer can make a significant difference. Attorney Bernie understands that contested divorces involve disagreements that require skilled legal support to resolve. We can help you through challenging situations by providing knowledgeable guidance and a compassionate approach tailored to your unique circumstances. With over 30 years of legal experience, we help those throughout Alameda County, Castro Valley, San Francisco, and Modesto with all of their family law matters. These are some of the types of cases we handle in regard to divorce.

Disputes Over Child Custody And Visitation

One of the most emotionally charged issues in contested divorce cases involves child custody and visitation rights. When parents cannot agree on who will have primary custody or how visitation will be scheduled, the case may require the intervention of our family law trial lawyers.

These disputes often involve concerns about the child’s well-being, and courts aim to determine arrangements that serve the best interests of the children. Our high-conflict divorce lawyers can assist in presenting a clear case that reflects your priorities and the needs of your family.

Arguments About Property Division

Property division is a common area of disagreement in contested divorces. Spouses may contest the value of assets, what qualifies as community property, or how debts should be divided.

Our divorce dispute attorneys help clients understand California’s community property laws and advocate for a fair division of marital property. Our team’s experience in detailed financial investigations and negotiations ensures that your interests are well-represented throughout the process.

Contesting Spousal Support Or Alimony

Spousal support, or alimony, often becomes a point of contention in contested divorce cases. One party may argue that support payments should be higher, lower, or limited in duration.

Our Alameda County contested divorce attorneys can present evidence regarding income, living expenses, and contributions to the marriage to influence the court’s decision. Our team’s thorough approach and familiarity with local family law regulations help clients make informed decisions about spousal support issues.

Handling Allegations Of Abuse Or Domestic Violence

Some contested divorces involve serious allegations such as abuse or domestic violence, which complicate proceedings and increase the stakes. Having our courtroom divorce lawyers on your side is essential to handling these sensitive matters carefully and making sure that protective measures are considered by the court.

Our team is committed to handling such cases with sensitivity and respect, advocating for safety and justice.

Disputes Regarding Parental Relocation

When one parent wants to relocate with the children, disagreements often arise regarding how this move impacts custody and visitation. This issue requires careful legal evaluation and representation from our divorce litigation attorneys, who understand how relocation requests are treated under California law. We work to achieve outcomes that respect both parental rights and the children’s best interests.

Helping Couples Through Divorce With Compassion And Clarity

At Attorney Bernie, our attorneys draw from years of experience helping families through difficult divorce proceedings, emphasizing clear communication and personalized legal strategies. If you are facing any of these challenges or other disputes in your divorce, our Alameda County contested divorce lawyers can help you understand your options and advocate for the best possible outcome. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward resolving your family’s future.