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Factors that Can Complicate a California Divorce

Factors that Can Complicate a California Divorce

Understanding the Challenges of Divorce

While some divorces are relatively straightforward and resolved quickly, others can become long, drawn-out legal battles that take months—or even years—to finalize. The complexity of a divorce case often depends on several key factors, including child custody disputes, high-value assets, and alimony requests.

At Hoss Law, we guide clients through even the most complicated divorce cases, ensuring that they understand their rights and that their interests are protected every step of the way.



Key Factors That Can Make a Divorce More Complicated

1. Child Custody & Support Disputes

If no children are involved in a divorce, the focus is usually on financial matters like property division and alimony. However, when children are part of the equation, divorce becomes significantly more emotionally and legally complex.

  • Custody disputes can become heated, as both parents may want primary custody or disagree on visitation schedules.
  • Even if parents agree on custody arrangements, child support payments must be calculated and negotiated.
  • A child’s best interests are the court’s top priority, which means thorough evaluations may be required, delaying the process.


Because of the high emotions surrounding child custody, even the most amicable divorces can become complicated when children are involved.



2. Complicated Assets & Property Division

Property division is a central part of any California divorce. However, if you and your spouse own complex financial assets, dividing them fairly can become highly contentious.

Some assets that can complicate divorce include:

✔ High-net-worth estates with no prenuptial agreement
✔ Investment portfolios, stocks, and retirement accounts
✔ Business ownership and professional practices
✔ Rental properties and vacation homes
✔ Trust fund payments or large inheritances
✔ Offshore accounts and foreign business holdings
✔ Valuable assets like jewelry, artwork, and collectibles

California follows community property laws, meaning marital property is divided equally between spouses. However, determining what qualifies as community vs. separate property can create disputes that require legal intervention.



3. Alimony Requests & Spousal Support Disputes

Alimony—or spousal support—is often one of the most contested aspects of divorce. Many people do not want to financially support their former spouse after the marriage ends. However, if one spouse is financially dependent on the other, alimony may be necessary to help them transition to financial independence.

Disputes often arise over:

  • Whether spousal support is necessary
  • How much support should be paid
  • How long alimony payments should last


Judges consider many factors when awarding alimony, including the length of the marriage, each spouse’s income, and financial need. When spouses disagree, these disputes can significantly delay divorce proceedings.



How to Navigate a Complex Divorce

While some factors cannot be avoided, the best way to streamline your divorce and minimize delays is to hire an experienced divorce attorney.

At Hoss Law, we:

✔ Advocate for fair child custody and support agreements
✔ Protect your financial interests in property division
✔ Negotiate alimony terms that make sense for your future
✔ Work toward amicable settlements while preparing for litigation if necessary



Speak With a Divorce Lawyer in Roseville About Your Case

If you are concerned about the complexity of your divorce, the best way to ensure a smooth and efficient process is to have an experienced Roseville divorce attorney handling your case.

Call 844-4HOSSLAW today or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation.

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