Denise Lite, Esq. — California Family Law Attorney in Santa Clarita
Denise Lite is a California family law attorney with 29+ years of experience helping families navigate divorce, child custody, spousal support, and property division. Serving Santa Clarita and Los Angeles County. Free confidential consultation. Call (818) 884-6666.
Practice Areas
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Divorce & Dissolution
— Guiding you through California divorce clearly and calmly, whether amicable or contested.
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Child Custody & Visitation
— Protecting your relationship with your children under California's best-interests standard.
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Child Support
— Getting the numbers right with California's guideline formula, income analysis, and timeshare calculation.
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Spousal Support / Alimony
— Fair, realistic, and sustainable support arrangements based on statutory factors.
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Property Division
— Your fair share of community and separate property, including complex asset valuation.
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Domestic Violence & Restraining Orders
— Urgent protection and compassionate counsel for restraining order matters.
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Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements
— Clear, fair, and enforceable agreements for both partners' peace of mind.
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Post-Judgment Modification
— Modifying custody, support, and visitation orders when life changes.
About Denise Lite, Esq.
For more than 29 years, Denise Lite has guided California families through some of the most difficult moments of their lives. As a longtime member of the State Bar of California, she has helped over 1,000 families navigate divorce, custody, and support. She is known for an approach that is as compassionate as it is capable. Denise believes the law should feel less intimidating, not more. She takes the time to explain your options in plain language, answers your questions honestly, and treats every client with patience and respect.
Learn more about Denise Lite
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does divorce take in California?
California requires a minimum 6-month waiting period from the date your spouse is served. Simple uncontested divorces typically resolve in 6–9 months; contested cases often take 12–18 months or longer.
How is property divided in a California divorce?
California is a community property state. Assets and debts acquired during the marriage are generally divided 50/50. Property owned before marriage or received as a gift or inheritance may be considered separate property.
Do I need a lawyer for an uncontested divorce?
Not legally required, but strongly recommended — especially if children, a family home, or retirement accounts are involved. Even in amicable divorces, the paperwork is complex and errors can be costly.
How much does a California divorce cost?
Court filing fees are approximately $435–$450. Attorney fees vary: straightforward uncontested cases may range from $3,000–$5,000; contested divorces often cost $15,000 or more. Denise Lite offers a free initial consultation.
What is the difference between legal separation and divorce in California?
Legal separation allows spouses to live separately and divide assets without formally ending the marriage. A divorce legally ends the marriage.
How does child custody work in California?
California courts determine custody based on the best interests of the child. Legal custody covers decision-making; physical custody determines where the child lives. Joint custody is common.
What am I entitled to in a divorce in California?
You are entitled to an equal share of all community property — assets and debts acquired during the marriage. You may also be entitled to spousal support depending on the length of the marriage and income disparity.
Can my spouse hide money during our divorce?
Spouses are legally required to disclose all assets. If you suspect hidden assets, your attorney can use the legal discovery process to compel full financial disclosure. Courts take hiding assets seriously.
Contact
Phone:
(818) 884-6666
Email:
help@deniselite.com
Office:
28015 Smyth Dr, Santa Clarita, CA 91355
Hours:
Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Request a free consultation online
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