.jpg){kind=logo}
Select the Language:
divorces
In the State of California, a divorce is obtained by filing a court case. No one has to prove that someone did something wrong to cause the divorce (No-Fault Divorce). You can get divorced even if the other person doesn't want it.
​
To file for divorce in California, you or your spouse must have lived in California for the past 6 months and in your current California county for the past 3 months.
Make sure you can file in California
​
​
Submit documents to start the case and pay a fee.
​
When you file forms with the court, you will have to pay a fee.
​
Pay a fee Filing the case costs between $435 and $450. If you cannot pay the fee, you can request a fee waiver.
Sharing divorce papers with your spouse
Once you file your documents, you must have someone deliver a copy to yourspouse.
Service of court papers
Service of court documents is the wayofficial legalto let someone know you started a court case
Finalize the divorce
To finalize the divorce, you must
-
Sharing financial information with your spouse
-
Agree on how to divide your property, manage your finances, and about the care and support of your children. If you disagree or your spouse does not participate, the court can make the decision.
-
Submit final paperwork to the court to make your divorce final
By law, the divorce cannot be final for at least 6 months (called the waiting period).
