The unfortunate events surrounding Lamar Odom’s recent hospitalization after being found unconscious in a Nevada brothel have been well documented. While Odom was in a coma, reports stated that Khloe Kardashian was making important medical decisions regarding Odom’s treatment, such as how long he should continue to receive life support.
Many were wondering why Kardashian, who was in the process of divorcing Odom, would be allowed to make those medical decisions. The answer can partly be attributed to California’s family law backlog.
How the California Divorce Case Backlog Could Affect You
Odom and Kardashian filed for divorce back in 2013. Their case progressed very slowly through the court. In July 2015, the parties finally reached an agreement, and a judgment packet was submitted to the court. However, the court has a backlog of cases, which has prevented the judgment from being reviewed and approved to finalize their divorce case. This means that Odom and Kardasian are still legally a married couple until the divorce judgment is approved by the court. Because of that legal status, Kardashian still holds all the rights and powers as a wife. Therefore, when Odom became incapacitated due to being in a coma, Kardasian, as his wife, had every right to make major medical decisions for Odom.
This unfortunate situation has brought to light a very important problem in the California family law court system: divorce case backlogs. Backlogs of processing divorce judgments have left many parties in the strange situation of still being married to their estranged spouses, with all of the rights and responsibilities that come with that status.
How an Experienced Divorce Attorney Can Help Finalize Your Case Quickly
This problem brings to light the importance of having an experienced divorce attorney to move the case along to a final judgment, and to prevent as many unnecessary delays as possible. A skilled divorce attorney can also assist you in having contingencies should there be a delay with the court finalizing the divorce judgment.
For example, to prevent the unfortunate situation faced by Odom and Kardashian, an experienced attorney will be able to assist you in making power of attorney documents to help clarify who can make major medical decisions should you become incapacitated.
Call a Divorce Lawyer at Wallin & Klarich Today
A divorce can be difficult and confusing. That is why it is important to have an experienced California divorce lawyer review your case and advise you on the best options for your case. The attorneys at Wallin & Klarich have been successfully handling divorce cases for more than 30 years. You can rely on Wallin & Klarich to obtain the best possible result in your case.
With offices in Los Angeles, Orange County, Riverside, San Diego, San Bernardino, West Covina, Sherman Oaks, Torrance, Victorville and Ventura, one of our skilled divorce lawyers will be available to help you no matter where you work or live.
Contact our offices today at (888) 749-7428 for a free phone consultation. We will be there when you call.
