How to Finalize a Divorce in San Bernardino County in 6 Weeks

Hi, I’m Tim Blankenship from Divorce661. In my recent video I explained how couples in San Bernardino County can complete their divorce process quickly—even though California has a six-month waiting period. Many people assume a divorce must drag on for months or years. With the right approach, organization, and cooperation, you can get everything done well before the final automatic date.

Quick overview: the six-month rule and what it really means

California law includes a minimum six-month waiting period between the date you file for divorce and the date the court can enter a final judgment. That waiting period cannot be waived. However, the waiting period doesn’t stop you from completing every other step in the case early. You can file, serve, exchange disclosures, negotiate and sign a marital settlement agreement, and even submit your judgment package for court review long before the six months are up.

“You can complete your San Bernardino divorce in as little as 6 weeks.”

Step-by-step: How to move your case fast (without cutting corners)

Here are the practical steps that allow you to finalize everything early and simply wait out the statutory clock:

• 1. File your petition and serve your spouse immediately.Filing and properly serving your spouse starts the six-month clock. Do this as soon as you’re ready so all subsequent steps can proceed right away.
• 2. Complete your financial disclosures promptly.California requires both parties to exchange financial disclosures. Do these quickly and accurately—delays or incomplete disclosures are one of the most common causes of slow cases.
• 3. Negotiate and sign a marital settlement agreement.If you and your spouse can reach mutual agreement on property, debt, support (if applicable), and other terms, put it in writing. A signed settlement agreement clears the way for a stipulated judgment.
• 4. Prepare and submit the full judgment package for early review.Don’t wait to file the judgment. Submit the full package to the court as soon as your settlement is signed and disclosures are complete. Courts can review and approve the paperwork long before the six-month finalization date.

Real example: San Bernardino couple finalized paperwork in 30 days

We recently helped a San Bernardino couple who filed, served, exchanged disclosures, and submitted their judgment within 30 days. By week six the court had approved the paperwork. They then simply waited for the automatic final date to make the divorce official. Their success shows that accuracy, cooperation, and timely action make fast results possible.

Common pitfalls that slow things down

• Delaying or avoiding financial disclosures
• Incomplete or inaccurate paperwork
• Lack of cooperation between spouses when negotiating terms
• Failing to submit the judgment package once a settlement is reached

How Divorce661 helps you finish fast and affordably

At Divorce661 we specialize in amicable, uncontested divorces that move quickly. Our services are designed to minimize friction and unnecessary expense:

• Flat-fee pricing so you know costs up front
• 100% remote filing through San Bernardino’s eFile system
• Full-service handling: filing, service, disclosures, and judgment preparation
• Fast, court-approved results without the need for costly attorneys when couples are in agreement

Is a 6-week timeline realistic for you?

It depends on cooperation and preparation. If both parties are willing to exchange accurate disclosures, negotiate in good faith, and sign a settlement, you can complete every step well within the statutory waiting period. The court’s approval of the paperwork can often happen by week six—then you simply wait for the final date to be automatic.

Next steps

If you want to move quickly, start by filing and serving right away and prioritize your financial disclosures. If you’d like help preparing your paperwork and submitting everything electronically for fast court review, Divorce661 can guide you through the process from start to finish.

Visit Divorce661.com to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you finalize your divorce quickly, affordably, and with less stress. Let’s get it done so you can move on to the next chapter of your life.