What is a qualified domestic relations order (QDRO)?

A qualified domestic relations order (QDRO) is a court order that is used in California divorce cases to divide certain types of assets between the two parties. It typically concerns pensions, 401(k)s, or other retirement accounts. The QDRO sets out who is entitled to receive how much of the benefits from these assets and how those benefits will be transferred. To be valid, a QDRO must meet certain requirements set out in California law. It must identify the type of account, the parties involved, and the amount of money to be transferred. It must also be signed by a judge and accepted by the financial institution that holds the assets. The QDRO can be used to divide assets in any way that the parties agree to, subject to the requirements of the law. For example, the order could provide for the spouse receiving the benefits to start receiving them at a certain age, or for a certain amount to be deducted and paid to the other party. In California, QDROs can help ensure that each spouse gets their fair share of the assets from the divorce. They are an important tool to make sure that both parties in the divorce are treated fairly and that any assets subject to the order are divided appropriately.

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