Divorce can turn civil to stormy—fast. And when both sides dig in, when “fair” seems like a far-off notion, that’s a contested divorce. At Bagner Law in San Leandro, I help East Bay residents face these battles head-on. This isn’t about breaking up; it’s about figuring out the right way to divide everything you built together. Property, finances, your kids’ future—each deserves a clear plan.
California Family Code §2550 defines the game. Community property—everything earned or acquired during marriage—gets divided equally. But here’s the twist: equal doesn’t mean simple. Contested divorces bring up questions. What’s truly joint? What’s separate? These cases often reveal assets no one saw coming, and this is where a solid strategy counts. My job is to shine a light on every dollar and every account. To fight for what’s fair.
Asset Division: Beyond “Equal”
When it comes to dividing property, the law may say “equal,” but contested divorces are anything but cut and dry. Under Family Code §2550, all community property—everything from homes to retirement accounts—gets split. But there’s more to it. Hidden accounts. Forgotten stocks. Even debts you never knew existed. I dive into each detail, from tax returns to real estate, ensuring you’re clear on what’s yours.
Discovery brings it all into focus. Financial affidavits, subpoenas, document requests—every legal tool on the table. And in contested divorces, this isn’t just paperwork. It’s protection. It’s making sure no assets are slipping through the cracks. With each case, I work to expose every corner so you know exactly what you’re getting and what you’re owed.
Spousal Support: Fair, Not Flimsy
Spousal support can be a sticking point. It’s not just a financial decision; it’s about stability. Family Code §4320 outlines what matters in setting alimony: income, marketable skills, and time spent as a homemaker. All of it factors into the equation. But let’s get real: contested divorces make alimony tricky. Each side wants what’s “fair”—but fair looks different depending on who’s paying or receiving.
My role? To present your reality. I work to ensure support that reflects your situation and your needs. Whether you’re asking for alimony or facing it, I make sure your story gets told backed by the evidence that matters.
Custody Battles: Put Kids First
Custody isn’t just a side issue—it’s often the heart of a contested divorce. California law prioritizes the child’s best interests, weighing each parent’s ability to provide a safe, stable home. Custody disputes demand preparation, from solid parenting plans to documented involvement in your child’s life. Evidence isn’t a nice-to-have; it’s essential.
I make sure we’re prepared for everything: full custody, joint custody, supervised visitation—whatever arrangement serves the child best. I build a case that centers your child’s needs so the court sees the full picture, not just a snapshot.
Uncovering the Facts: The Power of Discovery
In contested divorces, knowledge is your edge. Discovery is about more than paperwork; it’s about finding the truth. Financial affidavits, depositions, and subpoenas are all essential tools for uncovering hidden details. Depositions bring parties face-to-face with their claims, and affidavits lay out each party’s financial standing for scrutiny.
At Bagner Law, I leverage discovery to put every fact on the table, ensuring nothing is left to guesswork. By the end, you’re armed with everything needed to make an informed, fair decision.
Your Advocate in Court
Contested divorces often end up in court, where every detail matters. I don’t just handle the paperwork—I prepare you for the stand, for cross-examinations, for everything the courtroom demands. Every appearance counts, and it’s my job to ensure you walk in ready to make your case. When it’s over, you’ll know you fought with everything you had.
Fair divorce isn’t just about “winning.” It’s about getting what’s right, what’s earned. With Bagner Law, I fight for what’s fair—what’s yours.
