How To Prepare Your California Divorce Judgment Forms
Navigating the final stages of a California divorce can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to preparing and submitting your divorce judgment forms. Tim Blankenship of Divorce661 shares valuable insights on how to handle this crucial step, particularly for those who are managing their divorce without professional legal help. This guide breaks down the process, offering practical advice to help you complete your judgment forms correctly and avoid common pitfalls.
Understanding the Divorce Judgment Phase
The divorce judgment is essentially the final agreement or stipulation that concludes your divorce case. It’s the last step after filing, serving papers, and attending court hearings. However, this phase is often where many self-represented individuals hit a wall. Tim highlights that the judgment packet can be quite extensive—sometimes 40 to 50 pages long—and it requires careful attention to detail.
Many people attempt to do their own divorce and only seek help when they face difficulties at this stage. Tim recalls a client who brought in a large packet of court documents and expressed frustration, saying, “I can’t deal with this anymore, can you help us?” This is a common scenario, and it underscores how challenging the judgment phase can be without guidance.
Challenges of Preparing Your Own Divorce Judgment
Preparing your own divorce judgment forms is possible but can be very difficult. The complexity arises because the judgment consolidates all the decisions and agreements made throughout the divorce process. If you’ve done everything yourself up to this point, you might be tempted to just mail in your paperwork and consider it done. However, this approach often leads to delays or rejection by the court due to improper preparation.
Tim recommends reaching out for professional help early, but acknowledges that not everyone can or wants to do that. For those who choose to proceed on their own, following the correct steps is essential to avoid frustration and ensure your case moves forward smoothly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Submitting Your Divorce Judgment Forms
Tim provides a clear, practical checklist for submitting your judgment forms correctly:
- Make Multiple Copies of Every Document: You will need four copies of every form and document included in your judgment packet. This ensures you have an original plus enough copies for the court and all parties involved.
- Prepare Three Sets of Envelopes Addressed from the Court: These envelopes are crucial for the court to send documents back to you and the other party after processing.
- First Set – Large Envelopes for the Judgment: Use two 9×12-inch envelopes (or similar size) for mailing the judgment documents. These envelopes are designed to hold thick packets without folding. They should be addressed from the court to you and the other party, with proper postage attached. It’s important to weigh the envelopes or add extra postage to cover the weight.
- Second Set – Regular Envelope for Notice of Entry of Judgment: This is a separate single-page form that the court mails independently. You only need one first-class stamp on this envelope.
- Third Set – Envelopes for Default Cases (If Applicable): If your case involves a default judgment (using form FL-165), you will need another set of envelopes addressed from the court with postage attached for mailing the default request.
By organizing your submission in this way, you help the court process your judgment efficiently and ensure you receive all necessary documents promptly.
Additional Tips and Resources
Tim plans to make a detailed slide presentation available via SlideShare, which will include all the forms and instructions needed to properly prepare your divorce judgment packet. This resource aims to assist those who want to handle their divorce paperwork independently but need a clear roadmap.
For anyone who gets stuck or feels overwhelmed, Tim encourages reaching out for professional assistance. The Divorce661 service offers expert help for California divorces, providing support wherever you are in the state.
Contact information for those interested in professional help:
- Website: www.divorce661.com
- Phone: 661-281-0266
Conclusion
Preparing your California divorce judgment forms is a detailed and sometimes daunting task, especially if you’re doing it yourself. Understanding the volume of paperwork, the need for multiple copies, and the importance of properly addressed and stamped envelopes can make a significant difference in how smoothly your case concludes.
Remember, while self-help is commendable, professional guidance is available and can save you time, stress, and potential errors. Whether you choose to handle your divorce judgment independently or seek expert assistance, following these steps will help you move forward confidently.
“If you get stuck, call us. We’d love to help you out.” – Tim Blankenship, Divorce661
