Tracing: Why, When and How

Tracing usually becomes an issue when community and separate property funds have been commingled in the same account(s) and then an asset is purchased with funds from that account. The mere commingling of separate property moneys in a community bank account does not destroy the separate property character of the funds, so long as they…

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The Marriage of Collins: Turning a $4,000 Client Investment into a $300,000+ Savings in Spousal Support

Case Background Melvin and Maureen Collins were married for thirty-five years. In 2005, the couple separated and subsequently divorced. Melvin, who was the sole breadwinner, has been employed as a professor of economics at a prestigious Orange County university. During their marriage, Maureen was a stay-at-home mom. Their divorce settlement included a monthly spousal support…

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In re Marriage of Dawnel and Frank Bonvino Findings Change Precedence in Real Property Apportionment Calculations (Part 1)

Approximately three years after their marriage, Dawnel and Frank Bonvino purchased a family home in Westlake Village with a down payment from husband’s resources and the proceeds from a loan in his name.  The property was purchased in 1996. Title to the home was taken in Frank’s name as sole and separate property.  Approximately 15…

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