History of Divorce in California

In California’s earliest days, the Gold Rush and trans-Pacific trade routes brought in countless enterprising, adventurous people hoping to find their fortune. Most of these early explorers were young men. For a time, there were far more men than women in California’s earliest towns and cities. Although this would change as the state grew, it meant that Californians were from the beginning more willing to permit divorce than many other states.

Over a century later, in 1970, California became the first state in the Union to introduce no-fault divorce. Prior to the introduction of no-fault divorce, two spouses could only divorce as adversaries. In other words, it was necessary for one spouse to bring some kind of charges against the other as a way to end the marriage. Couples who wanted to divorce voluntarily had to pretend something occurred, usually in the form of the wife accusing the husband of adultery.

Fortunately this is no longer the case. No one today should be forced to stay in an unhappy marriage for legal, social, or economic reasons. The divorce process is simpler and easier than ever before, giving couples a way out of relationships and a new start. Nonetheless, marriages can be very complex, especially if the couple has children. The help of an Oceanside divorce lawyer may be necessary for a quick, peaceful divorce.

Contact Us

If you and your spouse are considering a divorce, the experienced Oceanside divorce attorneys of Fischer & Van Thiel, LLP can help you consider all the details of your divorce. To discuss your case, contact us by calling 760-722-7646.