How to File a Joint Divorce Petition in Los Angeles County (Summary Dissolution)
I’m Tim Blankenship from Divorce661. If you and your spouse agree on everything and want the simplest, least stressful way to separate, a joint divorce petition—also called a summary dissolution—can be a great option. In this article I’ll walk you through who qualifies, the paperwork you’ll need, the timeline, and how professional help can make the process quick, clean, and easy.
What is a Joint Divorce Petition (Summary Dissolution)?
A joint divorce petition or summary dissolution is a streamlined divorce process for couples who agree on all terms. It’s designed to avoid court appearances and simplify paperwork. When both spouses are on the same page—about property, debts, and support—this process can save time, money, and emotional stress.
Who Qualifies?
Not every marriage is eligible. Summary dissolution is intended for relatively simple, short-term marriages. To qualify in California (including Los Angeles County), you generally must meet these requirements:
- Marriage duration: Married less than 5 years.
- Children: No children together, and neither spouse is pregnant.
- Real estate: No real estate owned by either spouse (no houses or land).
- Debts: Total community debts under $6,000.
- Community property: Community property value must be under $47,000.
- Agreement: Both parties must agree to all terms, including waiving spousal support.
If you meet these criteria, summary dissolution is often the simplest route to a no-fuss divorce.
Required Documents and Disclosures
The paperwork for a joint petition is straightforward but must be complete and accurate. Key documents include:
- Joint Petition for Summary Dissolution: Both spouses sign and file together.
- Property Agreement: A signed agreement dividing community property and debts.
- Exchange of Financial Disclosures: Each spouse provides financial information to ensure transparency and fairness.
Completing the exchange of disclosures is essential—even for agreeable couples—so the court knows both parties entered the agreement knowingly.
Step-by-Step Filing Process
- Confirm eligibility based on the criteria above.
- Complete and sign the joint petition and property agreement.
- Exchange required financial disclosures between spouses.
- File the paperwork with the court.
- Observe the mandatory six-month waiting period.
- Receive final judgment—no court appearance required if everything is in order.
The process is court-approved and can be handled remotely with the right help.
The Six-Month Waiting Period
After filing, California law requires a minimum six-month waiting period before the divorce can be finalized. This waiting period is calendar-time, and there are no court hearings required for summary dissolutions if the submitted paperwork meets court standards.
Real Client Example
We recently helped a couple married just over four years with no children, modest debt, and two used vehicles. They met the financial thresholds and agreed on terms, so we filed their summary dissolution. Six months later their divorce was finalized—with zero court appearances.
Benefits of a Joint Petition / Summary Dissolution
- Faster: Often finalized in six months with no drawn-out court battles.
- Cheaper: Reduced court costs and legal fees—especially with flat-fee services.
- Less stressful: No courtroom appearances and minimal conflict.
- Remote-friendly: Many providers handle everything electronically and file court-approved documents for you.
When to Consider Professional Help
Even though the process is simple, errors or missed disclosures can delay finalization. Professional services can:
- Confirm eligibility before filing.
- Prepare and review all required forms to ensure they meet court standards.
- Handle filings remotely and guide you through the six-month timeline.
- Offer flat-fee pricing so you know costs up front.
If you want certainty and a smoother experience, working with an experienced service is often worth it.
Next Steps
If you think you qualify for summary dissolution in Los Angeles County or elsewhere in California, start by reviewing the eligibility checklist above. For a no-obligation review and help handling the paperwork, visit Divorce661.com for a free consultation.
Conclusion
A joint divorce petition (summary dissolution) can be an excellent option for couples who are in agreement and meet the eligibility requirements. With clear financial limits, required disclosures, and a six-month waiting period, this process offers a fast, low-stress path to finalizing a divorce without court appearances. If you want to make your divorce quick, clean, and easy, professional help can confirm eligibility and handle the paperwork remotely—so you can focus on the next chapter.
“Let us make your divorce quick, clean, and easy.”
