Long Beach Divorce: Step-by-Step Guide | Long Beach Divorce

Starting a divorce can feel overwhelming, but the process moves quickly when you know the right steps and file the correct forms. This guide walks you through each step for filing a divorce in Long Beach through the Los Angeles County court system. Follow these steps carefully to avoid delays, reduce stress, and increase the chance of a fast, orderly resolution.

Step 1 — File your Petition and Summons

Your divorce officially begins when you e-file a Petition and Summons with the Los Angeles County court. If you have children, include the UCCJEA form (Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act) so the court has the proper custody jurisdiction information. Once your forms are accepted, the court will issue a unique case number. That case number is your primary reference and will track your case through the system.

• E-file your Petition and Summons through the Los Angeles County electronic filing system.
• If children are involved, include the UCCJEA form to document custody jurisdiction.
• Keep your issued case number handy — it is required on all subsequent filings.

Step 2 — Serve your spouse properly

Serving your spouse is a critical step. Serving puts your spouse on formal notice of the proceedings and starts the timeline for responses and disclosures. You have two common options:

• Personal service — a third party hands the documents directly to your spouse.
• Notice of Acknowledgement and Receipt — your spouse signs a form acknowledging receipt of the paperwork.

After service, promptly file the proof of service with the court. This keeps your case moving and prevents unnecessary delays. Timely proof shows the court that service requirements have been met.

Step 3 — Exchange mandatory financial disclosures

Transparency is required. Even if both parties agree on everything, California law mandates exchanging financial information so the court can approve any settlement. The two core disclosure items are:

• Schedule of Assets and Debts — a detailed list of marital and separate property, accounts, debts, and values.
• Income and Expense Declaration — current income, employment, monthly living expenses, and other financial obligations.

These disclosures form the foundation for a fair settlement. Complete them accurately and attach supporting documentation where applicable. Incomplete or inaccurate disclosures are the most common cause of court rejections and delays.

Step 4 — Draft and submit your final paperwork

When you and your spouse agree on terms, draft your settlement agreement and the proposed judgment carefully. Courts expect clean, complete paperwork. Submit your final forms electronically for court approval when possible. Electronic filing helps the clerk process your case faster and avoids scheduling in-person appearances in most uncontested matters.

• Double-check all forms for signatures, dates, and correct case numbers.
• Attach required disclosures and proof of service.
• Submit electronically to speed processing and reduce the chance of rejection.

Real-life example: Quick resolution in Long Beach

A recent Long Beach couple finalized their divorce in just six weeks. They achieved this because every form was completed correctly, disclosures were accurate and timely, and proof of service was filed promptly. By getting everything right the first time, they avoided rejections and delays and received court approval without multiple resubmissions.

By getting everything right the first time, they avoided delays and achieved a swift resolution.

Checklist: What to prepare before you start

1. Petition and Summons ready to e-file
2. UCCJEA form if children are involved
3. Plan for personal service or a signed Notice of Acknowledgement
4. Schedule of Assets and Debts completed
5. Income and Expense Declaration completed
6. Draft settlement agreement and proposed judgment
7. All proofs and supporting documents scanned for e-filing

How to make this process smooth, fast, and affordable

Handling the paperwork correctly from day one prevents needless delays. Flat-fee, full-service divorce options that handle e-filing, service coordination, disclosures, and final judgment preparation can streamline the process, avoid court appearances, and often save time and money.

If you are ready to start your Long Beach divorce and want a clear, efficient path from filing to final judgment, schedule a free consultation at Divorce661.com. We focus on straightforward, no-surprise divorces handled remotely so you can move forward quickly and confidently.