Uncontested Divorce in California: What You Need to Know

Going through a divorce is never easy but if you and your spouse are in agreement on the major issues, an uncontested divorce can be a much simpler and more affordable path forward.

What Is an Uncontested Divorce?

An uncontested divorce also called a dissolution of marriage is one where both spouses agree on all key issues, including:

• Division of property and debts

• Spousal support (if applicable)

• Child custody and visitation (if children are involved)

• Child support (if applicable)

When both parties are on the same page, the process is significantly smoother and faster than a contested divorce that goes to trial.

How Long Does It Take?

California has a mandatory six-month waiting period from the date your spouse is served before a divorce can be finalized. This is sometimes called the "cooling off" period. Even if all paperwork is filed correctly and immediately, the earliest a California divorce can be finalized is six months from the date of service.

Do I Need an Attorney?

Not necessarily. Many self-represented individuals in California successfully complete an uncontested divorce without an attorney. What you do need is accurate, properly completed paperwork and that's exactly where a Legal Document Assistant can help.

At By The People, we prepare all required divorce documents for you, review everything to make sure it's correct, and guide you through the filing process step by step. You represent yourself in court, we handle the paperwork.

What Documents Are Typically Required?

A California uncontested divorce typically involves documents such as:

• Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (FL-100)

• Summons (FL-110)

• Declaration of Disclosure forms

• Marital Settlement Agreement

• Judgment of Dissolution

The exact forms required will depend on your specific situation, whether you have children, shared property, debts, retirement accounts, and so on.

Ready to Move Forward?

Schedule your free consultation with By The People today. We'll walk you through exactly what's needed for your situation,no obligation, completely confidential.

📞 (760) 382-2481 | docs@bythepeopleusa.com