Legal Question in Family Law in California

I went through a divorce that I didn't even know was happening. The ex lied about his assets and I ended up with nothing! After 35 years, not even alimony,,,can I rectify this or is it a done deal? And how on earth can this happen?


Asked on 2/15/14, 5:52 am

3 Answers from Attorneys

Kelvin Green The Law Office of Kelvin Green

You are missing some facts here. How do you have a divorce case that you not know about? You had to be served, if you were not then move to set aside the judgment. If you were then you are probably stuck. Have a lawyer review the case for a better idea.

Read more
Answered on 2/15/14, 6:53 am
Arlene Kock Law Offices of Arlene D. Kock APLC

If the judgment is less than 6 months old from entry, you can set it aside based on mistake, inadvertence ,surprise and or excusable neglect. The courts favor resolutions that are a fair equal division of community property.

If the judgment entry dividing your property is older than 6 months, you can still set it aside based on fraud. If you ex lied to the court and or misrepresented notice of this legal action to you, that's fraud.

If your ex failed to list and divide community assets in the judgment, those assets are still divisible as omitted assets. Please immediately meet with an experienced family law attorney to assess your legal options. Time is of the essence!

Read more
Answered on 2/15/14, 9:43 am

The previous answers are correct. I write to focus you on the fact that the longer you wait the less chance of relief. You will not get the help you need on the internet. Call a qualified family law attorney Tuesday morning.

Read more
Answered on 2/15/14, 10:59 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Family Law, Divorce, Child Custody and Adoption questions and answers in California