Divorce, Legal Separation & Custody: What You Should Know Before Filing in Riverside County

Introduction

Ending a marriage or partnership is never easy — emotionally or legally. Between paperwork, court deadlines, and family responsibilities, the process can feel overwhelming. At Prep Xpress of Riverside, we specialize in helping you prepare, file, and serve the correct family law documents so you can focus on your next chapter — not court confusion.

1. Divorce vs. Legal Separation — What’s the Difference?

In California, both divorce (dissolution of marriage) and legal separation allow spouses to address issues like property division, custody, and support.

The key difference:

• Divorce ends the marriage completely, allowing you to remarry.

• Legal separation keeps you legally married but living separately — often chosen for religious, insurance, or financial reasons.

Both require nearly identical paperwork (like the FL-100 Petition), but the intent and outcome differ. At Prep Xpress, we help you file the correct forms for your situation and make sure they’re served properly to avoid delays.

2. Custody & Visitation — How California Decides

Riverside County follows California’s “best interest of the child” standard. That means the court looks at factors like:

• The child’s age, health, and emotional ties to each parent

• Each parent’s ability to provide a stable environment

• Any history of domestic violence or substance abuse

  
  

Parents can agree to a Parenting Plan (custody and visitation schedule) — or, if there’s disagreement, a judge will decide.

Prep Xpress can prepare and file the appropriate Request for Order (RFO) or Stipulation and Order forms, ensuring everything is worded clearly to support your case.

3. Child & Spousal Support

California uses a state-wide formula to calculate child support based on income, custody time, and certain deductions.

Spousal support (alimony) is more flexible and depends on:

• Length of the marriage

• Standard of living during the marriage

• Each spouse’s earning capacity

Our experienced team helps prepare Income and Expense Declarations (FL-150) and Support Calculation Worksheets, so the court gets accurate information from the start.

4. Why Proper Filing Matters

Mistakes like missing signatures, incorrect service, or incomplete forms can delay your case for weeks — even months.

Prep Xpress ensures:

• Correct forms are used for your county

• All service and proof of service requirements are met

• Documents are court-ready and accepted the first time

No more rejected filings or multiple courthouse trips.

5. How Prep Xpress Makes It Easier

With over two decades serving Californians, Prep Xpress is known for fast, accurate, and affordable document preparation. You can complete your divorce, separation, or custody filings:

• In person at our Riverside office

• Online from anywhere in California

• Remotely — we handle filing and service on your behalf

We don’t just prepare documents — we guide you step by step until your paperwork is accepted by the court.