Divorce or marriage dissolution can occur for many reasons in a domestic partnership. If you research the categories of divorce issues and dissolution of marriage cases, you will notice that spouses who file for divorce do it on the ground of issues like infidelity and domestic violence with an abusive spouse. The California divorce process does not have to be financially ruinous, though.

Sometimes, the hardest part of the divorce process in California is getting started with the legal separation. Generally, you know how divorce works. One spouse files divorce papers, maybe the spouses go to court if they disagree about finances or child custody. Sometimes one spouse has to pay alimony after the divorce proceedings and judgment.

It sounds simple enough, but when you go to the self-service website of your county’s court system or read a self-help divorce book, it starts to sound a lot more confusing. Who knew that there was more than one type of divorce? Have you ever had the divorce process explained to you? Probably not. After all, there are so many different forms to fill out, and not every divorce case requires all of them, but which ones do you need for your case?

What our Clients Say...
“Divorce is usually never pleasant but A People’s Choice made it much easier than it would have been if we tried to do the divorce paperwork on our own. They were very quick to respond to us and always took the time to answer all of our questions thoroughly, in addition to quickly. I would highly recommend them for handling divorce paperwork.”
Susan Z.
“The service provided by A People’s Choice was very professional and comprehensive. We have used A People’s Choice on a previous occasion and were completely satisfied. We would highly recommend A People’s Choice to anyone!“
R. Betancourt
“I recently required the help of A People’s Choice, Inc. and found them to be entirely professional. Everything was done in short order yet all was explained to my satisfaction. They were friendly and courteous. I am happy and impressed.”
C. Zyobel
“So glad I found this company to handle my divorce. They were very professional and detail oriented, answering all of my (many) questions and kept me informed. They handled everything for me from hundreds of miles away and made it pretty seamless. The pricing was in the exact range we were looking for. Very honest company and great to work with!”
Jessica J.
“Made the process so easy for me. Also VERY prompt replies through email. So glad I used their services.“
Kristina C.
“I used A People’s Choice to complete custody paperwork. No disappointment here. The service was easy and painless. It might have been nice to have a discussion by phone, but it was still quite easy and quick via email. Overall, the process was simple and I would use A People’s Choice again.”
Michael J.
“I was very happy with the service received. They were extremely responsive by phone and email and completed the document in less than 24 hours! All questions were answered promptly. I would highly recommend this service to anyone needing a legal document prepared!”
M.D.
“I’ve worked with A People’s Choice since September 2013.  They are very knowledgeable and experienced.  Their work is done professionally and timely.  They show a real concern for my situation.  I recommend you give them the opportunity to be of service to you.”
D. Echeverra
“A People’s Choice is a business that delivers what they promise. I was treated like a VIP by their staff. As for their services, they promptly delivered all of the official documents and fillings on my behalf and their price is more than reasonable. In short, this is a business that I will always recommend and continue to use. Thank you!”
Juan B.
“A People’s Choice is awesome! They made the legal documentation process painless. I highly recommend A People’s Choice. The name says it all.”
Eric J.
“I can’t remember how I found A People’s Choice, but am completely satisfied with the service provided. The person I worked with was very friendly whenever we spoke on the phone and always responded promptly to any emails. The entire process was smooth and painless. Would recommend A People’s Choice without hesitation.”
Les A.
“I would just like to comment on what a great job A People’s Choice did with my divorce. I could not be happier. They let me know how they keep the cost down by communicating through email. I also appreciated how when I had a question they got back with me in the day or in the evening. APeoples Choice is a good deal for the consumer.”
R. Leyva
“My wife and I needed to have papers filed in court but found traditional lawyers were quite expensive. A People’s Choice did a professional job completing our paperwork and I might say, at a very reasonable price. You can bet I will contact A People’s Choice again if or when the need arises. “
D. Hileman
“Highly recommend A People’s Choice. The customer service and professionalism are exceptional. My documents were delivered to me quickly and accurately. Compared to using an attorney for complete paperwork, this service is only a fraction of the cost, more responsive, and better suited to quickly completing complicated court forms. “
Linda F.
“I can’t say enough about the level of service and professionalism I received working with A People’s Choice. Emails were always responded to quickly and thoughtfully. They really care about the process and helping you get the best result with no up-selling. The process played out according to plan, and I ended up saving a lot of money by going with A People’s Choice over an attorney.”
M. Rice
“This team is efficient, professional, ethical and easy to work with. Any of my questions were responded to immediately. They did everything they could to help me. I highly recommend their services.”
Leigh A.
“A People’s Choice is extremely customer orientated and friendly.  Their service was fast and reliable. in the future, should I need their services again, I will not hesitate to call them. All e-mails were answered with either a phone call or e-mail sometimes even late at night“
Tar
“A People’s Choice offers a very professional, low cost service for all sorts of legal paperwork, from living trusts to divorce, bankruptcy and everything in between. If you know what you want to do and don’t need legal advice, I strongly recommend calling this company. You won’t be disappointed and will save lots of money!”
Kathryn R.
“When I first saw all of the documents required to file I was overwhelmed. Already dealing with the stress of everything else, I did not want to deal with the courts, a mountain load of paperwork and trips to file as well. I’m VERY happy that I went with A People’s Choice. They were very helpful, despite all of my questions. I definitely recommend.”
M. McCleod
“Very professional, excellent follow up and easy to work with. I will recommend them often! The staff rocks!”
Gene A.
“I thought I could save money and file my own divorce paperwork. The court clerks offer no assistance whatsoever! The best advice I can give is to call A People’s Choice first. They typed up my paperwork and my divorce was final in two weeks! Would highly recommend them to everyone.”
L. Bayer
“Extremely satisfied with the performance of A People’s Choice. The communication was excellent and all was handled in a timely efficient manner. “
Pam T.
“Overwhelmed with my divorce, custody and child support paperwork, A Peoples Choice made everything so much easier and really put my mind at ease. I couldn’t be happier with their assistance and it really made all the process speed up for me. Thank you so much for all your help.”
Samantha R.
“A People’s Choice saved me time, money & hardship. The people are professional and a pleasure to work with, I totally recommend them to everyone! I will used them for all my legal documents in the future. Thank you!”
C. Lazalde
“I used A People’s Choice for filing divorce paperwork for an uncontested divorce. The price was very affordable and fair. Excellent service throughout. Not being able to call and talk on the phone worried me at first but they responded to every email extremely quickly. Directions were very easy to understand. Will definitely use them again if I need.
Frank M.
“Just recently moved to the Ventura area and didn’t know of any companies to help me with my legal paperwork. I am glad I chose A People’s Choice. They were very friendly and helped me with my documents in a very efficient way in very little time. Give them a try and you will be writing a positive review just as I did.”
D. Buelna
“Lightning fast response, I had my very simple document on the same day as my order for the very fair and reasonable price of $325 (including the rush fee!) compared to my attorney who quoted me 3 weeks and $2500. I will definitely use these folks again and highly recommend them!”
L. Carnes
“A People’s Choice prepares legal documents so you can represent yourself and still look like you know what you’re doing. I utilized their services recently and found them to be professional as well as extremely helpful. I couldn’t be happier.”
Evan J.
“I had contacted a lawyer and he wanted to charge me $1800.00. Then I found A People’s Choice. They got my paperwork started and at a much lower cost, and steered me, with the help of lots of paperwork, in the right direction. I am grateful for the company’s services and would recommend them to anyone that may need the services they offer.”
April R.
“Great service. Highly professional and efficient creating legal documents. I am completely satisfied and highly recommend them to others. I am so glad I found you on the internet. People who are looking for professional legal services look no further, try A People’s Choice.”
Radtech N.
“I needed help understanding and filling out legal documents, but I didn’t have enough money to pay for an attorney. The staff at A People’s Choice was very professional and helpful. They took care of all of the paperwork and filings and kept me posted. I would highly recommend them. You will get outstanding service at an affordable price. “
Sharon B.
“A People’s Choice helped me with my QDRO. They were very professional and very honest. They saved me a lot of money by having them do all the paperwork. There was no hidden fees. I would recommend A People’s Choice for any of your needs. They are very knowledgeable in what they do. Thank you A People’s Choice for all your help!”
Debra H.
“Want to personally thank the staff at A People’s Choice for making my divorce process so simple and painless. From my 1st contact in the office, they were was warm and friendly and took the time to explain each step in a very simple and quick manner. Filing for a divorce can be a difficult and painful process and the staff was extremely professional and clear in all guidance and explanations. I highly recommend A People’s Choice.”
C. Hannon
“This company is excellent! They helped me get through all of my paperwork, submitted it to the court, and now everything is complete. Everything was clear and almost too easy. I saved thousands of dollars!”
Seth M.
“I had the opportunity to use A People’s Choice again, Wow doesn’t say enough for the way the staff was able to get me in and out and all my answers answered. Very P-professional, organized and Friendly. I highly recommend!”
Debbie E.
“How much is peace of mind worth to you? This company of hardworking, caring individuals will help you get the job done in the quickest, most efficient way. Conveniently located. Check it out. Thank you!”
Diana K.

Start the California Divorce Process With Our Help!

Start My Divorce

…or continue reading the article below to learn more about the California divorce process.

Contested and Uncontested Divorce

The difference between contested and uncontested divorce is whether your spouse files a response to the divorce petition after you file for divorce. If your spouse does not file a response, the divorce is uncontested.

The court understands that your spouse agrees to all the terms you listed in your petition. There is no reason to hire a lawyer in an uncontested divorce. If your spouse files a response, the divorce case becomes contested.

The California Divorce Process: Contested Divorce

The most complex divorce cases are contested divorce cases, which means that the respondent submits a response to the petition for dissolution of marriage. This issue is a procedural requirement. If this happens, it means that the respondent does not agree with all the terms of the divorce that the petitioner included in the divorce petition for a legal separation. Some of the contested issues could include

  • Separate property assets
  • Division of property
  • Real property issues
  • Child custody issues, or
  • Custody agreements and residency requirements for minor children

This, therefore, calls for a formal divorce proceeding and basic steps for divorce summons in which all matters are heard in a family law courthouse and the appropriate decisions made by the judge. Such instances may also call for a divorce attorney. An experienced divorce attorney who specializes in family law matters helps in ensuring that everything runs smoothly.

The California Divorce Process: Uncontested Divorce

By contrast, in an uncontested divorce, the respondent does not file a response. Their lack of response means that they accept the terms listed in the petition and the California divorce process can proceed without a court-imposed order. Divorce lawyers to represent both parties will therefore not be applicable in this case therefore, there will be no need for excessive divorce cost in terms of attorney fees. The judge from a family law courthouse has to just sign off on the divorce petition and divorce forms and declare the marriage over. In an uncontested divorce, filing for divorce happens in six steps, listed below:

  • File a divorce petition at the family law clerk’s office stating the grounds for divorce. Your divorce paperwork should also contain your requests for the terms of the divorce, including possession of the marital home and, if applicable, parenting time and both community property, and personal property division.
  • Formally serve your spouse with the divorce papers and any additional document per the divorce laws
  • With declarations of disclosure, exchange information with your spouse in financial disclosures about each party’s assets, income, and debts.
  • Create and sign a marital settlement agreement. This may entail care for minor children and divorce settlement.
  • Submit a request to enter a default judgment. The soonest you can do this is 31 days after you serve your spouse with the divorce papers.
  • The court issues a divorce judgment. The judgment specifies the date that your marriage officially ends. The divorce decree (final judgment) will outline the terms of your agreement. That date must be within a six-month period after you served your spouse with divorce papers.

Therefore, you and your spouse will have to reach an agreement about alimony, child custody, division of assets other points of disagreement. If you cannot come to an agreement on your own, you will need to go to mediation or hire lawyers.

If Uncontested Divorce Does Not Work

california divorce process

The California divorce process can take many different paths apart from the regular divorce trials. Uncontested divorce (collaborative divorce) is easier than a contested divorce. It does not always work, though. If you and your spouse cannot agree on a marital settlement agreement the entire process will need additional steps and may require additional forms. You might also need a mediator an experienced family law attorney to help you work things out through a step-by-step guide. Divorce mediation normally seeks to bring both parties towards a formidable decision regarding their marriage.

The mediation services can get carried out either through private mediation or with the help of an experienced family law attorney. However, this may not demand any additional paperwork, filing fee, or attorney fees. Also, a judge in the family court can play some role in the mediation process. If you live in a county where the court-connected mediator may report to the court after unsuccessful mediation of child custody issues or child support, you might prefer the full confidentiality of private mediation.

Filing a Divorce Petition and Serving Your Spouse With Divorce Papers

No matter how long since physical separation from your spouse, and no matter how much you have discussed getting divorced, the dissolution of marriage procedure does not begin until one spouse files a divorce petition with the court. After you file for divorce, you must serve your spouse with a copy of the petition. this will mark the start of the entire divorce process

This requires you to have another adult deliver the petition to your spouse. The petition can be delivered using a service by mail or in person if possible. The six-month period countdown to when your divorce can become official begins on the day you serve your spouse with the divorce papers.

Division of Property in a California Divorce

california divorce process

In California, when one spouse files for divorce, each spouse gets to keep half of the marital assets and becomes responsible for half of the marital debts. Marital property is anything you acquired or any income you earned during the marriage such as real estate, automobiles, or other properties. If the parties’ incomes were very unequal during the marriage, the higher-earning spouse might have to pay alimony.

Summary Dissolution of Marriage in California

California offers a simplified divorce process called summary dissolution of marriage which is more common in counties like San Diego and San Jose. It is simpler, cheaper, and faster than conventional divorce. It only applies to couples who were married a short time, do not have children together, and own very little marital property.

A Legal Document Assistant Can Help You Get a Divorce

Choosing a legal document assistant to help you get through the California divorce process is a significant cost-savings solution for divorce especially when it is uncontested. Contact A People’s Choice at 800-747-2780 to get all the documents and self-help divorce books you need for your divorce professionally prepared.

Get started with your California divorce today!

A People’s Choice can save you hundreds of dollars by preparing your California divorce legal documents instead of an expensive attorney!

Start My Divorce

Was this article helpful? We would love to know your thoughts! If you found this article helpful, please check the LIKE button below. Your feedback helps us plan topics for future articles.