How to File for Divorce Online in California
If you are thinking about getting divorced and want to avoid the hassle of going to court, you can file for divorce online in California. Most California counties now accept e-filing for divorce cases, which means you can complete the process from filing the initial petition to submitting your final judgment without ever stepping foot in a courthouse.
How California e-filing Works for Divorce
E-filing allows you to submit court paperwork electronically instead of delivering physical documents to the courthouse. While the mechanics vary slightly by county, the core elements are the same: prepare the correct forms, file them with the court, serve your spouse, complete required disclosures, and follow the court timeline until final judgment.
What e-filing does and does not do
- Does let you submit filings and many final documents electronically.
- Does not eliminate the need to serve your spouse and complete required disclosures.
- May still require in-person appearances in certain contested or complex situations, but many uncontested or stipulated cases can be handled fully remotely.
Step-by-Step: Filing for Divorce Online in California
- Gather and prepare the right formsStart with the Petition for Dissolution and any mandatory local forms. You will also need financial disclosures and settlement documents if you have agreements about property, support, or custody.
- File the paperwork electronicallyMost counties accept e-filing. Submit your documents through the court’s approved e-filing service and pay the filing fee or request a fee waiver if eligible.
- Serve your spouseAfter filing, you must serve the other party with the filed documents. Service methods may include personal service, mail, or a process server. In cases where both parties agree, some documents and communications can be exchanged electronically, but check local rules and confirm valid service methods.
- Complete disclosures and any required financial paperworkCalifornia requires certain disclosures early in the process. Provide accurate financial information and file any necessary disclosure forms electronically when allowed.
- Work toward settlement or defaultIf the case is uncontested, finalize your agreement with a judgement package. If the other party does not respond, you may proceed with a default judgment process.
- Submit the final judgment electronicallyOnce both parties agree or a default is entered, the final judgment and related documents can be filed electronically in many counties to complete the divorce.
Real Client Story: Los Angeles County
We recently helped a couple file for divorce online in Los Angeles County. From preparing their paperwork to filing electronically and submitting their final judgment, everything was handled by email and e-signature. Their divorce was finalized without a single in-person appearance.
We prepared their paperwork, filed it electronically, and handled everything through email and e signature. Their divorce was finalized without a single in-person appearance.
How a Full Service Online Filing Works
A full service online filing solution typically includes:
- Preparing all required forms accurately
- Filing documents with the court electronically
- Serving your spouse and handling proof of service
- Assisting with financial disclosures and settlement documents
- Submitting the final judgment electronically when the case is ready
Tips and Common Questions
- Is online filing available everywhere in California? Most counties accept e-filing, but availability and procedures vary. Check your county court’s e-filing rules.
- Will I always avoid court? Many uncontested cases can be completed remotely, but contested or complex matters may still require hearings or appearances.
- How do I serve the other party? Service rules remain in effect. Ensure you use an accepted method of service and file proof of service with the court.
- Keep records Save copies of all filed documents, email correspondence, and e-signatures for your records.
Ready to File for Divorce Online in California?
If you want the process done quickly and correctly, consider a service that handles the paperwork, e-filing, service, and final judgment submission. A professional online filing service can reduce stress, avoid errors, and help you move forward with confidence.
For a free consultation and to learn how to begin your online divorce filing in California, visit divorce661.com and schedule your appointment. We handle the hard part so you can focus on the next chapter.
