In general, it can take a minimum period of six months to finalize a simple and uncontested California divorce.
Mail service is not valid for divorce summons in California, unless the other party is willing to sign a Notice and Acknowledgement of Receipt. Otherwise, service must be in person, and it cannot be by you, needs to be by a non-party. Someone (not you) just needs to hand him the papers.
It is possible to get a divorce without going to court, especially in cases where both parties mutually agree to the divorce and its terms. This process is often referred to as an ``uncontested divorce'' or ``amicable divorce.'' Here are the key steps and considerations:
DIY Divorce Process in California Check Your Compliance With the Residency Requirements. Collect the Court Papers. File the Paperwork With the Court. Serve Your Spouse. Wait for the Response. Complete Preliminary Financial Disclosure. Draft a Settlement Agreement and a Parenting Plan. Obtain the Final Judgment.
Choose the Right Time and Place : Find a private, quiet space where you can talk without interruptions. Be Honest but Compassionate : Clearly express your feelings and reasons for wanting a divorce. Prepare for Their Reaction : Understand that your spouse may react with shock, anger, sadness, or denial.
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.
An uncontested divorce can be wrapped up as quickly as six weeks to three months.
The average timeline for most no-fault divorces in California is about 15 months. There is a mandatory 6-months waiting period after the petitioner files a Complaint. For fault divorces, the timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case and can be anywhere between 6 months and several years.
From start to finish, the divorce process in the Golden State can take at least six months – even if both parties agree to the dissolution immediately. This length of time is due to California's divorce requirements and mandatory six-month waiting period. Contact a San Jose divorce attorney for more information.