Residency Requirement
At least one spouse must have been a California resident for at least 6 months and a resident of the county where filing for at least 3 months.
Waiting Period
California has a mandatory 6-month waiting period from the date the respondent is served before the divorce can be finalized.
Filing Fee
$435 - $450 (varies by county; fee waivers may be available)
Property Rules (Community Property)
California is a community property state. Marital property is generally divided 50/50 between spouses.
Child Support
Child support is calculated using state guidelines based on income, time-sharing, and other factors. California uses a statewide uniform guideline formula.
Custody
California courts consider the best interests of the child. Both legal and physical custody arrangements can be agreed upon by parents.
Required Court Forms
These are the standard forms required for an uncontested divorce in California. Justice Divorce prepares all of these for you.
- Petition (FL-100)
- Summons (FL-110)
- Declaration Under UCCJEA (FL-105)
- Property Declaration (FL-160)
- Judgment (FL-180)
Good to Know
California allows summary dissolution for qualifying couples with shorter marriages, limited assets, and no children.