In general, it can take a minimum period of six months to finalize a simple and uncontested California divorce.
To start a divorce or legal separation, you begin by filling out two court forms: a Petition and a Summons. If you and your spouse (or domestic partner) have children together, you will also need to fill out at least one other form about your children.
Sometimes, one spouse wants the divorce while the other refuses to cooperate. A spouse's refusal to consent to a divorce or sign the paperwork will not, however, halt the process. Couples in California can dissolve their marriages with or without both spouses' consent to the divorce.
Dissolution may be the better option if: You both are in agreement that the marriage simply isn't working. You both feel that no one, in particular, is at fault. Dissolutions are often called no-fault divorces.
A summary dissolution is a simpler way to end a marriage or domestic partnership for couples who qualify and are able to work together. A summary dissolution becomes final 6 months after you file with the court. This shows the basic process.
An uncontested divorce is much faster and cheaper than traditional divorce—spouses can often use a DIY solution like an online divorce service. They do, though, also have the option of getting professional help.
In general, it can take a minimum period of six months to finalize a simple and uncontested California divorce. Contested divorces in California can take anywhere from a year to several years, depending on the complexity of the case and the number of issues that need to be resolved.