Sacramento Divorce Attorney

Leading Mediation, Child Custody & Family Law Attorneys in Placer & El Dorado Counties

About half of marriages in the US end in divorce. Divorces are highly emotional situations that can significantly impact your future. When so much is at stake in a challenging circumstance, you need professional guidance. Choose the attorneys at Stutz Law Office if you need a divorce attorney in Sacramento to handle your divorce, spousal support, child support, or related matters. 

The firm's founder, attorney Joshua Stutz, started the company in 2019 to help clients in the Placer County, CA area resolve divorces and family law matters amicably. With a combined decade of experience among three attorneys, you can trust the Stutz Law Office team to represent you throughout your divorce.

If you’re facing a divorce or family law matter, a divorce attorney in Sacramento at Stutz Law Office can provide guidance and support. Call (916) 884-2235 or contact us online today.

We Assist You With Your Divorce Matters

Divorce cases have several components. You, your spouse, and your attorney will need to discuss several factors in your divorce, including:

• Division of Marital Property - Any property or asset you and your spouse purchased during the marriage must be divided equitably. In cases involving substantial assets, such as real estate, you may need to liquidate certain items and split the proceeds. Assets owned before marriage generally remain separate and are not subject to division.
• Child Custody - Child custody is often the most contested part of a separation. In California, custody includes deciding where a child will live and determining which parent can make decisions about medical, educational, religious, and other matters relating to the child's upbringing.
• Child Support - In cases where one parent earns significantly more than the other, the court may require child support. The court can mandate one parent to make monthly payments to the other, depending on custody and income. After a court orders child support, a parent can seek legal action if the other does not pay as required.
• Spousal Support - Spousal support (alimony) may involve a monthly payment from one former spouse to the other when one party earns substantially more. This support allows the lower-earning spouse to maintain their standard of living following a divorce.

Many divorce cases involve disputes over these components. Negotiating directly with your spouse can be difficult due to the case's emotional nature. For these reasons, work with the attorneys at Stutz Law Office to handle your divorce.

Sacramento has unique court procedures for family law cases, including mandatory case management conferences at the William R. Ridgeway Family Relations Courthouse. Our team helps clients navigate these local court requirements and explains the impact this may have on their timeline. Understanding how local judges interpret property, custody, and support law ensures your case moves forward as smoothly as possible.

Timeline & What to Expect in the Sacramento Divorce Process

When filing for divorce in Sacramento, your journey often begins with filing a petition with the Sacramento County Superior Court’s Family Law Division. After you begin proceedings, the court serves the petition to the other party and schedules key dates, such as temporary order hearings and settlement conferences. A mandatory six-month waiting period starts when the petition is served, but many cases require more time based on the complexity of property division, custody arrangements, or both parties' willingness to negotiate.

The court may schedule pre-trial conferences, mediation sessions, or mandatory parenting classes if you have children. Throughout this process, you may need to submit disclosures about your finances and assets. Local rules can differ from statewide procedures, so paying attention to the requirements specific to Sacramento can help streamline your process and reduce costs. Our practice keeps clients informed at each stage, so you know what’s coming next and can prepare the necessary documentation in advance.

If your case requires a court appearance, you'll typically visit the William R. Ridgeway Family Relations Courthouse, which handles nearly all dissolution, support, and custody hearings for Sacramento County. We guide clients through the scheduling and logistics unique to this local court system, making it easier to attend hearings, respond to deadlines, and comply with all required rules to help your matter progress efficiently. Being prepared and understanding the process from the outset helps you make informed, confident decisions as your case unfolds.

Cost Considerations & Payment Options for Divorce in Sacramento

Understanding the financial side of divorce can help you plan your next steps with more clarity. Divorce costs in Sacramento vary depending on whether the case is contested, the need for specialists or mediators, and whether property or parental issues require complex negotiation. Common costs include court filing fees, service fees, document fees, and, depending on your needs, related legal expenses.

We believe that cost should never stand in the way of quality representation. At Stutz Law Office, we offer flexible payment plans and maintain cost-effective rates so clients can focus on achieving fair resolutions, not worrying about upfront legal costs. Transparent communication helps you weigh the possible expenses associated with negotiation, mediation, or trial, and we clarify expectations at each phase of your divorce case.

In Sacramento County, local court programs occasionally offer reduced-fee mediation or assistance for those facing financial hardship. Eligible parties can reduce costs with these resources, though most divorce matters benefit from personalized legal advice. That’s why we discuss payment options at the beginning, giving you clarity and confidence as you move forward.

Special Circumstances: High-Asset, Military & Second Marriage Divorce in Sacramento

Dissolving a marriage can bring added complexity when there are significant assets, military benefits, or second marriages involved. In high-asset divorces, Sacramento courts often require a thorough evaluation of business interests, real estate, pensions, and investment accounts. Our team guides clients through these circumstances, helping identify assets that may not be immediately apparent and ensuring valuations and distributions comply with California’s community property laws.

For military families—both active duty and reserve—Sacramento’s proximity to major installations means many divorces require careful coordination. Military divorce often involves federal law, such as the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), or issues concerning the division of military pensions under the Uniformed Services Former Spouses’ Protection Act (USFSPA). We help clients address these unique factors and understand rights related to military retirement, health coverage, and child custody when deployment is a concern.

Second marriages may bring blended families, prenuptial agreements, and children from prior relationships into focus. Sacramento County considers all children involved and applies the same no-fault divorce laws, though existing agreements or court orders from earlier marriages can influence proceedings. Our support includes reviewing prior court decrees or marital contracts to ensure your interests are protected under state and local family laws.

Understanding Modifications & Post-Divorce Relief in Sacramento

Even after the court finalizes your divorce, circumstances can change and may require modifications to custody, support, or visitation orders. In Sacramento, post-divorce relief follows the guidelines set by the Family Law Division, and any party seeking a change must show a significant change in circumstances. Common factors include job loss, relocation, a child’s changing needs, or shifts in income.

We explain the legal standards Sacramento courts require to grant modifications, such as demonstrating that a parent’s request truly benefits the child or that a substantial change in financial resources exists. Navigating these actions within the Sacramento County system means understanding preferences for family law mediation or alternative dispute resolution before returning to court for a hearing. This process can streamline resolution and reduce conflict for all involved.

As your situation evolves, maintaining organized records and documentation supports your requests for modifications and helps protect your interests. We help clients understand their legal rights and options for post-divorce modifications, including enforcement, long-term planning, or compliance with existing court orders.

Understanding California Divorce Laws

California follows a no-fault divorce system, so neither spouse must prove wrongdoing to end a marriage. The primary basis for dissolution is "irreconcilable differences"—the marriage cannot be repaired.

The state also requires a mandatory six-month waiting period from the date you file your divorce petition before the court can finalize your divorce. During this time, issues like property division, child custody, and support arrangements must be addressed. A divorce attorney in Sacramento guides individuals through this legal process, ensuring all required filings are accurate and interests are represented.

Not all divorces follow the same path. Some spouses can resolve all terms amicably, while others require significant litigation to settle disputes.

• An uncontested divorce occurs when both parties agree on terms for property division, child custody, and spousal support. These cases usually move quickly and cost less. Even when parties agree, working with a divorce lawyer in Sacramento ensures the agreement remains legally valid and enforceable.
• A contested divorce occurs when parties disagree on key issues. These cases often require mediation, negotiation, or court hearings to resolve disputes. When a contested divorce is necessary, a knowledgeable divorce attorney advocates for your interests to help you seek a fair outcome.

If you plan to file for divorce in Sacramento, you must file your petition with the Sacramento County Superior Court and follow local family law rules alongside California’s state procedures. Local rules may affect the forms and specific deadlines for submitting documents. We take time to explain how these local variations can affect your schedule, hearings, and document requirements so you can understand each step from start to finish.

Why Mediation Might Be Beneficial

Mediation offers a cooperative alternative to traditional divorce proceedings, reducing conflict and often preserving important family relationships—especially where children are involved. Mediation gives both parties a chance to discuss their needs constructively and reach mutually acceptable agreements, avoiding the adversarial nature of court trials.

Choosing mediation in Sacramento saves time and money, and typically brings quicker results than litigation. Mediation sessions usually include both spouses and a neutral mediator, who helps guide discussions covering issues like child custody, financial support, and community property. Mediation outcomes tend to be more balanced since both parties actively contribute to the solutions. Our attorneys support you during mediation to safeguard your rights and interests throughout each conversation.

Mediation in Sacramento often occurs at local centers, such as the Sacramento County Family Court's onsite mediation office. The court may require you to mediate certain custody or visitation issues before proceeding to a hearing. Addressing these topics in mediation can allow for solutions tailored to your family’s needs. We help explain the benefits of these programs and how Sacramento’s local approach to mediation can resolve disputes faster and with less stress than courtroom litigation.

Avoiding Common Divorce Pitfalls

The complexity and emotions that come with divorce can lead to costly mistakes, impacting both settlement terms and the duration of your case. One frequent pitfall is failing to gather or properly disclose financial and asset records, which can result in unexpected disputes or unfair asset division. Keep organized financial documentation from the outset.

Emotionally charged decisions can add unnecessary conflict or cause delays. Reacting out of anger or resentment can negatively affect your case’s outcome. We offer clear, objective guidance to keep your focus on practical goals that set you up for success after divorce. Considering your future early—prioritizing long-term agreements and your children’s needs—helps build stability in the new stage of life after marriage.

Some people forget the importance of long-term planning following a divorce. Updating financial accounts, designating the right beneficiaries, and managing post-divorce tax implications all influence future security. Local resources in Sacramento, like workshops or support services at community centers, can assist with transitional challenges. We talk through these steps with clients so they avoid mistakes that might cause problems later.

Contact Our Divorce Attorneys in Sacramento

Divorce is a complex legal process involving everything from financial settlements to child custody. Mistakes during this process can have lasting consequences. Legal guidance ensures your rights remain protected and agreements comply with California law.

A divorce attorney can provide guidance tailored to your case. Whether you face a straightforward agreement, contentious litigation, or need assistance with post-divorce changes, having an experienced professional at your side can impact the result.

We answer questions about the Sacramento court system and clarify how local family law may affect your matter from the first filing to the final judgment. Our clients appreciate regular updates and clear guidance. Working with a divorce lawyer who knows the Sacramento process gives you confidence and a smoother transition during a difficult chapter.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does a Divorce Take in Sacramento?

In Sacramento and throughout California, a mandatory six-month waiting period applies from when divorce papers are served on one spouse until the divorce can be finalized. This waiting period applies whether your divorce is contested or uncontested. While it may feel lengthy, it allows time to negotiate fair and equitable terms. The time to complete a divorce varies based on issue complexity, such as child custody or finances. Working with Stutz Law Office can help streamline the process, ensuring all legal requirements are met efficiently and helping move your divorce to completion as smoothly as possible.

What Are the Grounds for Divorce in Sacramento?

California grants divorces on a "no-fault" basis, meaning the filing spouse does not need to prove the other spouse did anything wrong. The only requirement is claiming "irreconcilable differences," which means the marriage cannot be fixed. "Incurable insanity" is also a stated ground, though rarely used due to the complexity and medical proof required. Most couples file under no-fault to expedite the process and minimize hostility. At Stutz Law Office, we help you understand all available options and assist with proper filings to help protect your interests.

How Is Property Division Handled?

Sacramento courts follow California's community property laws. This means assets and debts acquired during your marriage are divided equally, regardless of whose name appears on titles or accounts. Accurately valuing and classifying property can be challenging, especially with complex assets like businesses or retirement accounts. Assets owned before marriage or acquired by gift or inheritance may be excluded if clearly identified. With a full understanding of these rules, Stutz Law Office helps clients protect their interests and ensure that entitlements are fairly considered throughout the division process.

What Should I Know About Child Custody?

Child custody decisions in Sacramento focus on the child's best interests. Courts review factors such as the child's health, safety, welfare, parent-child relationships, and each parent's ability to cooperate. Legal custody covers decision-making over significant aspects of a child's life, while physical custody determines the child's primary residence. Our team walks you through these issues and pursues arrangements that support your child's well-being and family stability. Whether seeking sole or joint custody, we help present a case that reflects your child's needs and your family's situation.

How Can I Prepare for a Divorce Process?

To prepare for divorce, organize all financial records, understand your assets and liabilities, and consider custody goals if children are involved. Seek emotional support during this time. Consulting a divorce lawyer early helps create a well-defined strategy focused on immediate and long-term needs. Stutz Law Office assists in developing a thorough plan so you can approach the process with clarity and confidence for your life beyond divorce.

Get trusted guidance for your divorce or family law matter. Contact us online or call (916) 884-2235 to speak with a reputable Sacramento divorce lawyer at Stutz Law Office, P.C. today.