The California Divorce Process: What You Need to Know

By Sandra McCarthy|November 22nd, 2020|Divorce|

Divorce is never truly painless in the way that getting a flu shot can be painless. It does not have to be financially ruinous, though. Sometimes, the hardest part of the California divorce process is getting started. If you choose a professional legal document assistant to prepare your divorce documents, you can be sure that you are following the California divorce process correctly, so that it will not cost you any more time and money than it needs to.

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How Much Does a Divorce Mediator Cost and Do You Really Need One?

By Sandra McCarthy|November 22nd, 2020|Divorce|

Divorce mediation is often used as a first-step in trying to resolve disputed issues between divorcing couples. In most contested divorces, the parties are able to resolve their disputes using a divorce mediator, and they do not need to go to trial. Although mediation is arguably less painful than going to trial, it is not especially cheap. Sometimes couples don't actually need a divorce mediator but just a third-party helper to get them through the legal process. Instead of paying the cost of a divorce mediator, couples can spend a fraction of that money on document preparation services by a California legal document assistant and pocket the rest.

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What is a Divorce Petition?

By Sandra McCarthy|November 19th, 2020|Divorce|

Although all divorce cases start out with the filing of a divorce petition, sometimes the complexity or level of conflict in your case changes as the case progresses. If things start out amicably, but your divorce gets messier after you file the initial divorce petition, it does not necessarily mean that you need a lawyer. Even if your divorce changes course after the initial filing of the divorce petition, having a California non-attorney legal document assistant prepare your divorce documents is still the most cost-effective choice.

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Child Custody and Support in Military Divorce

By Sandra McCarthy|October 14th, 2020|Divorce|

Military divorce is often complicated by one spouse's potential deployment and active duty status. Read on to learn how military service impacts child custody and support orders during divorce. Then, discover free resources to help your military divorce run smoothly.

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An Explanation of Important California Divorce Forms

By Sandra McCarthy|October 14th, 2020|Divorce|

Like most legal proceedings, the required documents for California divorces will vary based on the circumstances at hand. However, there are some forms that most - if not all - California divorcees will require. Unfortunately, that doesn't mean they're simple. Read on for an explanation of some of the most common California divorce forms. Then, contact A People's Choice for help completing and filing your paperwork!

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Is it Helpful and a Good Idea to Hire a Divorce Paralegal?

By Sandra McCarthy|October 7th, 2020|Divorce|

What is a divorce paralegal, and how can one actually help with your legal proceedings? The answer might surprise you. Learn the limitations of paralegals and why a legal document assistant may be the better option to assist with your divorce paperwork.

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Key Points to Include in Your Separation Agreement

By Sandra McCarthy|September 20th, 2020|Divorce|

If you're involved in an uncontested divorce in California, you may be able to finalize your divorce without hiring an expensive attorney OR appearing in court! Plus, you have the power to begin drafting a separation agreement right NOW! After determining your plans for the key issues listed in this article, contact A People's Choice for help completing and filing your agreement to reach a final judgment quickly and easily.

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Forming a Limited Liability Company in California

By Sandra McCarthy|September 6th, 2020|Business|

Forming an LLC in California comes with tax benefits, increased liability protection, and more flexibility! Plus, the process is pretty simple, especially when you enlist the help of a registered legal document assistant like A People's Choice. We can help you draft and file all the required paperwork WITHOUT hiring an attorney. Call today to learn more.

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California Divorce Residency Requirements: Where to File for Divorce in California

By Sandra McCarthy|August 31st, 2020|Family Law|

What are the residency requirements for filing divorce in California, and do you meet them? If not, what happens? Luckily, there are some simple solutions to typical residency requirement issues with California divorce. Read on to learn more, then contact A People's Choice to learn how we can assist you with completing and filing your divorce paperwork!

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A People’s Choice’s Ventura County Legal Document Services Can Help You Save Money!

By Sandra McCarthy|August 19th, 2020|Personal, California Courts|

Unfortunately, some clients discover our services only after spending countless hours in court and unnecessary funds on attorneys fees. Therefore, we always recommend extensively researching your options for legal assistance BEFORE hiring a lawyer. In fact, many routine legal matters can be handled on your own with some help from a legal document assistant! We can help you complete and file required paperwork for matters in which you're representing yourself with the California court system. Call today for more information!

Legal Document Preparation Fees – Are You Getting a Fair Deal?

By Sandra McCarthy|August 11th, 2020|California Courts|

What are considered fair and reasonable legal document preparation fees? Consumers typically find considerable discrepancies in cost amongst legal document assistants. Here at A People's Choice, we set fees by taking into consideration value and convenience, keeping our prices extremely competitive compared to rates offered by other companies.

How to Do Probate Yourself in California With A People’s Choice

By Sandra McCarthy|July 26th, 2020|Probate|

Probating an estate on your own saves you from paying thousands of dollars in attorneys fees. However, it's not necessarily easy to do totally by yourself. Instead, when you hire A People's Choice to help with your DIY probate, you can be confident in the outcome. Read on to learn more about our services and how to start your probate today!

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How to Register a Trademark Without a Lawyer

By Sandra McCarthy|July 23rd, 2020|Business|

Registering a trademark is an important part of protecting your intellectual property and establishing a recognizable brand. Therefore, if you're starting a business, be sure to register your symbol, logo, or brand name with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. If you're looking for more information on how to register your trademark, or require assistance completing the online application, contact A People's Choice today!

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How to Form an LLC Without an Attorney

By Sandra McCarthy|July 22nd, 2020|Business|

Are you wondering how to form an LLC without hiring an attorney? If so, read on for our five step process for forming an LLC with A People's Choice, a registered legal document assistant. Plus, learn some of the benefits of forming a limited liability company, and determine whether it's right for you.

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How Divorce Affects Children: The Good and The Bad

By Sandra McCarthy|May 29th, 2020|Family Law|

Divorce affects every child differently. However, children with divorced parents oftentimes experience negative effects of the divorce. These negative effects may be manifested in poor social-emotional development or academic performance. Luckily, there are some positive effects of divorce on children. Read on to learn more.

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How To Collect Child Support Arrears

By Sandra McCarthy|May 27th, 2020|Family Law|

Collecting child support arrears, or child support owed to you, is often a complicated and lengthy process. Thankfully, you have several options available to help you. For example, the Department of Child Support Services is available in the state of California. However, for a faster option, consider working with a registered legal document assistant like A People's Choice.

Divorce Mediation: Everything You Need to Know

By Sandra McCarthy|May 21st, 2020|Family Law|

Are you considering a getting a divorce in California? If so, you may want to consider divorce mediation! Divorce mediation is a low-cost, fast way to settle issues and finalize a judgment. Additionally, it's a great option for parties who are amicable and willing to compromise.

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How to Mediate a Divorce in California: Guide and Checklist

By Sandra McCarthy|April 28th, 2020|Divorce, Family Law|

Divorce mediation is a great alternative for couples looking to save money and resolve their conflicts in an amicable way. Looking for more information on divorce mediation in California? Read on for a complete guide and checklist, and contact A People's Choice for more information.

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Understanding California Probate Examiner Notes

By Sandra McCarthy|April 28th, 2020|Probate|

Understanding the role a probate examiner plays in the probate process, as well as what their notes mean, can help save you time and money during probate. In fact, maintaining an active role in the note process can buy you time to obtain any supplemental materials the court requires to settle the estate as quickly as possible.

Free Five-Step Estate Planning Checklist

By Sandra McCarthy|April 27th, 2020|Estate Planning|

Estate planning is imperative for anyone looking to ensure the well-being of their family members after their death. In fact, we always recommend that our clients create an estate plan. Therefore, in order to help out with this daunting process, we've created a free checklist for your reference. Read on to learn how to use it!

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Will Documents

Description of Will Documents (Notary fees additional)	Price
Will (individual)	$200
Codicil to Will	$125
Will package (individual) includes Will, Healthcare Directive and Financial Power of Attorney	$250
Will package (couple) includes 2 Wills, 2 Healthcare Directives and 2 Financial Powers of Attorney	$399
Other Services	Call for Quote

Trust Documents

Description of Trust Documents (Notary fees additional)	Price
Revocable Trust or Restatement of Revocable Trust (Individual) Trust or Trust Restatement only (you must have an existing revocable trust)	$300
Revocable Trust or Restatement of Revocable Trust (Couple) Trust or Trust Restatement only (you must have an existing trust)	$400
Revocable Trust or Restatement of Revocable Trust Package (Individual) Includes Trust, Pour-over Will, Certificate of Trust, Healthcare Directive, Financial Power of Attorney and estate folder	$499
Revocable Trust or Restatement of Revocable Trust Package (Couple) Includes joint trust, 2 Pour-over Wills, Certificate of Trust, 2 Healthcare Directives, 2 Financial Powers of Attorney and estate folder	$650
Special Needs Trust Designed for beneficiaries with physical or mental disabilities.	$700
Irrevocable Medi-Cal and/or VA Planning Trust	$700
Trust Transfer Deed and Preliminary Change of Ownership (California property)	$200 ($50 discount w/trust pkg)
Trust Transfer Deed (Out-of-State property)	$275 ($50 discount w/trust pkg)
Trust Transfer Deed (Timeshare)	$275 ($50 discount w/trust pkg)

Individual Estate Documents

Description of Individual Documents (Notary fees additional)	Price
Will	$200
Healthcare Directive	$125
Financial Power of Attorney	$125
Codicil to Will	$125
Trust Amendment	$200 and up
Trust Transfer Deed and Preliminary Change of Ownership (California property)	$200
Trust Transfer Deed (Out-of-State property)	$275
Trust Transfer Deed (Timeshare)	$275
Other Services	Call for Quote

Conservatorships Services We Offer	Price
Standard Conservatorship of Person AND/OR Estate (1 Petitioner) with or without Dementia Orders (Documents Only)	$1500
Limited Conservatorship for Developmentally Disabled (Documents Only)	$1200
Add-on Fees for Emergency Ex Parte Conservatorship (limited or standard)	+$300
Additional co-petitioner fee to any Conservatorship Petition	+$200
Add-on Fees for application for notice waivers and order	+$300
Add-on Fees for case management through Petition phase. Services include scheduling of any associated hearings, facilitating filing of documents with the court and other management services typically required to complete your Petition request	+$250
Standard preparation time is 10-14 business days. Rush preparation of all documentation is available for additional fee	$350+

Estate Administration Services	Price
Trust Administration (1 real property) each additional property +$200	$499
Probate Transfer by Affidavit (non-court, for estates with personal property only. This process cannot be used for estates with real property. Property must be valued under $166,250/$184,500)	$225
Simplified Probate Proceeding to Transfer Real Property Not Exceeding $55,425/61,000 (up to 2 Petitioners; 1 real property)	$649*
Simplified Probate Proceeding to Transfer Real Property Not Exceeding $166,425 (up to 2 Petitioners; 1 real property)	$799*
Spousal Property Petition (1 real property)	$749*
Heggstad Petition (1 Petitioner, 1 real property)	$1500**
No frills Probate Petition Documents Only for California Probate with Order of Probate and Letters of Administration or Letters Testamentary (document prep only with instructions. No court filing or additional support services.)	$750**
Phase 1 California Probate Petition (Full Service with court filing assistance, arranging publication, notices and case management) up to Order of Probate and Letters of Administration or Letters Testamentary	$1500**
Most Popular Full service, complete California Probate, facilitation of court filings, arranging publication, administrative notices, and ongoing case management services	$3900**
Probate Phase 2 or Phase 3 Full Service	$1500.00+/phase
Report of Sale and Petition for Order Confirming Sale Real Property (for matters with limited authority)	$1500.00 +costs
Notice of Proposed Action (up to 5 notices)	$250
Supplements to Petitions	$250 min. and up
Other Probate Services	Call for quote

*In these alternative small estate probate proceedings, if estate has more than 1 real property or 2 Co-Petitioners, additional fees will based on the following: +$75/each Petitioner over 2; +$150/each additional real property over 1. **In full probate proceedings, the following additional fees will apply, if applicable: +$250/each additional real property over 1; +$250/co-Petitioner; +$100/each beneficiary over 5. Fee covers all standard documents for routine proceeding but does not cover specialty services that may be required in some proceedings. Fees are based on all heirs waiving bond, waiver of accounting by all beneficiaries, and all creditors paid in full prior to filing Petition for Final distribution. Phase 3 Petition for Final Distribution may have add-on fees based on extraordinary actions or requests by the administrator prior to distribution. Annual surcharge fee of $500 will be assessed for each year or partial year the case remains open after 12 months.

Business Services We Offer	Price
General Corporation Includes standard minutes, bylaws, resolutions, stock certificates and corporate folder. Secretary of State fee: $100.00	$275
S-Corporation (Includes S-Corp election) Includes standard minutes, bylaws, resolutions, stock certificates and corporate folder. Secretary of State fee: $100.00	$310
LLC Includes Operating Agreement and corporate folder. Secretary of State fee: $70.00	$399
Professional Corp Includes Bylaws. Secretary of State fee: $100.00	$499
Non Profit Corporation Includes standard minutes, bylaws and corporate folder. Secretary of State Fee: $30.00	$499
501(C)(3) Non Profit Federal Tax Application	$599
Dissolve Corporation	$200
Walk Through Service with Secretary of State (turn around time 7-10 days)	$165
Registered Agent for Service (Annual) Click here to sign up.	$175
IRS S-Corp Election only	$50
Obtain Tax ID Number	$50
Statement of Information	$50
Fictitious Business Name Includes facilitating processing and publication (filing fee and publication fees vary from county to county).	$175
Basic Partnership Agreement	$300
Business Sales Agreement	$300
Copyright Standard Application	$150
Other Business Services	Call for Quote

Agreements	Price
Marital Settlement Agreement only	$275+
Stipulation and Order	$350+
Stipulation/Order with Paternity petition	$624
Pre or postnuptial Agreement (basic)	$299
Nuptial Agreement with complex, custom clauses	$999

Paternity Matters	Price
Paternity Petition only	$300
Stipulation and Order only	$350
Paternity Petition with Stipulated Judgment	$575
Paternity Petition with Request for Order/Motion for custody, visitation, support	$875

Marriage and Domestic Partnerships Proceedings	Price
Short term Marriage/Domestic Partnership (no personal property, children or real property)	$499
Marriage/Domestic Partnership with personal property (NO children, includes written Agreement)	$624
Marriage/Domestic Partnership with children (Includes written Agreement)	$624
Marriage/Domestic Partnership with 1 real property (Includes written Agreement	$775
Summary Dissolution (Please check qualifications for Summary Dissolution)	$499
Termination of Domestic Partnership through Secretary of State (Please check qualifications for Secretary of State procedure)	$499
Petition Only OR Response to Dissolution	$200-$300
Application to Serve by Publication	$275

NEW "DOCUMENTS ONLY" SERVICE for Marriage and Domestic Partnerships Proceedings. Budget option for documents only. Services do not include any case management or filing services.	Price
Preparation of standard dissolution or legal separation documents for short-term marriage or domestic partnership (no personal property, children or real property, with filing instructions). Includes all standard documents from Summons to Judgment.	$250
Preparation of standard dissolution or legal separation documents for marriage or domestic partnership (with filing instructions.) Includes all standard documents from Summons and Petition through Judgment based on parties signing a drafted Marital Settlement Agreement (does not address any separate or community real property.)	$400
Preparation of standard dissolution or legal separation documents for marriage or domestic partnership (with filing instructions.) Includes all standard documents from Summons and Petition through Judgment based on parties signing a drafted Marital Settlement Agreement which addresses separate or community real property division.)	$550

Motion/Contested Matters (does not include preparation of Orders After Hrg)	Price
Custody or Visitation Motion (RFO)	$475
Custody, Visitation and/or Support Motion (RFO)	$575
Emergency Custody or Visitation Motion (RFO) Includes request for temporary orders.	$900 min. (incudes RUSH processing)
Emergency Custody, Visitation, Support Motion Includes request for temporary orders.	$975 min. (includes RUSH processing)
Custody, Visitation and Support Motion with Paternity Petition	$875
Ex Parte to Terminate Child Support at 18	$250
Motion for Change of Venue	$575
Motion for Gillmore Election	$775
Other specialty motions	$575+ requires quote
Motion for Bifurcation and Final Judgment documentation	$825
Restraining Order- civil or domestic (no children)	$400 min.
Restraining Order (with children)	$575 min.

Guardianship Services	Price
Guardianship Affidavit or Power of Attorney (non-court)	$175
Guardianship of Person AND/OR Estate (1 Petitioner)	$1200
Add-on Fees for Co-Petitioners (per additional petitioner)	+$200
Add-on Fees for additional Minor(s) per minor	+$400
Add-on fees for Temporary ExParte Guardianship Request	+$300
Terminate Guardianship of Person and/or Estate	$399
Other Guardianship Services	Call for Quote

Expungement Services	Price
California Expungements	$399; +$200 ea. addtl. (same case #)
Felony to Misdemeanor reduction	$399
Criminal Prop 47 Resentencing or Reduction	$399; +$200 ea. addtl. (same case #)
Motion to Terminate Probation Early	$575
Petition to Seal Record	$499
Petition for Certificate of Rehabilitation	$399; +$50 each additional felony

Name Change Services	Price
Adult Name Change (individual)	$399
Combo Adult Name Change with 1 child – If more than one child, add $100.00 for each additional	$450
Name change for Minor Child – If more than one child, add $100.00 for each additional	$399
Name change after Divorce (Certified copy of Order extra)	$100

Title Transfers	Price
Grant Deed, Quitclaim Deed, Affidavit Death of Joint Tenant, Trust Transfer Deed, Transfer on Death Deed or other California deed Includes preparation of Preliminary Change of Ownership Report	$200
Warranty or Out-of-State Deeds (Non-California Deeds)	$275
Timeshare Deeds	$275

Other Matters	Price
Claim for Exclusion of Reassessment (parent/child or grandparent/grandchild)	$125 (discounted to $100 if prepared with deed)
Promissory Note secured by Deed of Trust	$325
Request for Special Notice re Deed of Trust	$125
Order copy of last transfer document/deed	$30

Civil Complaints and Answers	Price
Small Claims Package Includes preparation of claim, submission of documents to court, scheduling of hearing and arranging service of process	$250 plus $25 each defendant over 1
Civil Complaint Limited with 1 cause of action Each additional cause of action	$250 +$75
Response to unverified Civil Complaint with affirmative defenses	$250
Response to verified Civil Complaint with affirmative defenses	$350 (1 cause of action)

Other Civil and Misc. Matters	Price
Propounding Discovery Interrogatories, Request for Admissions, Production of Documents	$500 up
Responding to Discovery Interrogatories, Request for Admissions, Production of Documents	$500 up
Motion to Set Aside Default Judgment	$575
Civil Restraining Order	$499; $25 each addtl. protected person
Renew Judgment	$350
California Sister State Judgment	$300
Other Collection Proceedings	Call for quote
Expungement	$399
Other Services	Call for quote

Copyright Services	Price
Federal Copyright Application	$150
Government Filing Fee	$45-$65

QDROs and Retirement Division	Price
QDRO	$499
Joinder only	$350
QDRO with Joinder	$825

QDROs and Retirement Division	Price
QDRO	$499
Joinder only	$350
QDRO with Joinder	$825

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