Best Divorce Lawyers in Torrance

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Torrance, California?

  For non-emergency police response in Torrance, call (310) 618-5641.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Torrance, California?

  To get a copy of a police report, complete and print out a Request for Release of Police Records form. You can download the form from the Torrance Police Department's official website. Mail or submit in person the completed form to the Torrance Police Department (address below). Please include in your submission a money order or check made out to “The City of Torrance” for $1, and a copy of your government-issued photo ID. For more information on obtaining police reports, call (310) 618-5529

  Mailing Address: Torrance Police Department ATTN: Records Division 3300 Civic Center Drive Torrance, CA 90503

  Request for Release of Police Records: https://www.torranceca.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/73439/637842223917230000

• Can you change your name back to your maiden name after the divorce in Torrance, CA?

  Yes, you can request to revert to your maiden name as part of your divorce process. Once the divorce judgment is signed, your name will be legally changed. Note that you can only change to a former name in a divorce case. If you want to update your name to something you've never used/owned before, you'll have to file a separate case for a name change in Torrance.

• Will you have to pay your spouse’s debts if you get divorced in Torrance, CA?

  In general, yes. In Torrance, any asset or debt accumulated during the marriage constitutes a portion of the couple's community property, and community property is divided equally in the event of divorce. But, a judge can rule that a specific debt is only your spouse's responsibility if you can prove that it was acquired by your spouse with the intention to defraud or just to spite you.

• What happens if your spouse does not respond to the divorce papers you served in Torrance, CA?

  Your spouse is given 30 days to respond from the date they were properly served with the divorce petition and summons. If there is no response from your spouse, you can ask the judge in Torrance for a default divorce judgment. If there are no issues with the terms of the divorce, such as child custody and division of assets, the default divorce can be granted without going to court.

• How long does the divorce process in Torrance take?

  It depends if the divorce is contested or uncontested, but, generally, six to 18 months. There is a six-month waiting period required between the filing and finalization of divorces in Torrance. If the spouses have mutually agreed on a divorce settlement within six months, the judge can grant the divorce after the waiting period. If not, the divorce will go to court so the judge can decide on the disputed terms of the divorce.

• How can you protect yourself and your children while divorcing an abusive spouse in Torrance, CA?

  A Torrance divorce attorney can help obtain a restraining order if domestic violence is involved. The restraining order will require your spouse to keep a specific distance from you, your home, and your family members. With the court’s approval, further requirements may be added to the restraining order, such as for your spouse to complete an anger management program or avoid carrying a firearm.