Yes, a nonmarital cohabitation agreement can address retirement planning and specify the status and how retirement assets and benefits will be handled in case of termination or the death of a partner.
Yes, a nonmarital cohabitation agreement can address inheritance rights and establish the rights of each partner to inherit from the other’s estate in case of death.
Yes, same-sex couples can choose to have a civil ceremony to solemnize their marriage in California, just like opposite-sex couples.
Yes, same-sex couples have access to assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), and surrogacy in California. The laws governing these processes apply to all couples, regardless of sexual orientation.
Yes, same-sex couples can divorce in California through the same legal processes available to opposite-sex couples. The dissolution of a same-sex marriage follows the same rules and procedures as opposite-sex marriages.
No, common-law marriages are not recognized in California, regardless of the gender or sexual orientation of the couple. To be legally married, couples must go through the formal process of obtaining a marriage license and having a ceremony.
Yes, protective orders issued in California can be enforced across state lines through the Full Faith and Credit provision of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and under the CLETS process.
Mediation is a process where a neutral, adult third party, known as a mediator, helps disputing parties in reaching a mutually acceptable agreement pertaining to disputed issues in their divorce proceedings or legal separation proceeding or nullity proceeding.
Yes, attorneys can be present during mediation sessions to provide legal advice and support to their clients. However, the level of attorney involvement can vary depending on the preferences of the parties involved.
No, mediators are neutral facilitators and cannot provide legal advice to the parties. It is recommended that each party consult with their own attorney for legal advice outside of the mediation process.
