How to File an Online Divorce in San Diego County | San Diego Divorce
I’m Tim Blankenship from Divorce661. If you’re looking to finalize a divorce in San Diego County without ever stepping into a courtroom, you can — thanks to mandatory e-filing and a clear, organized process. In this guide I’ll walk you through the steps we use to file, serve, disclose, and finalize uncontested divorces fully online, plus practical tips to avoid common rejections and delays.
Why e-filing is a game changer
E-filing simplifies the divorce process by letting you submit documents electronically rather than making repeated trips to the courthouse. It saves time, reduces stress, and — when done correctly — lets you complete the entire case remotely. For many amicable couples in San Diego, it means you can file, serve, settle, and finalize your divorce from home.
Step-by-step: How to file an online divorce in San Diego
1. Prepare the required forms
The process starts with the right paperwork. At a minimum you’ll need:
- The Petition (the document that starts the divorce)
- The Summons (notifies the other party they’re being sued)
- Any required local San Diego County forms
- If you have children: the FL-105 custody-related declaration
Getting these forms correct and complete is critical — mistakes or missing local forms are a common reason e-filing gets rejected.
2. Serve your spouse
After filing, your spouse must be served. If they cooperate, they can sign a Notice of Acknowledgement (acknowledging receipt of the papers), which means you don’t need a process server. Once service is acknowledged or completed properly, that starts the mandatory six-month waiting period before a final judgment can be entered.
3. Complete financial disclosures
Financial disclosures are mandatory and non-negotiable. Courts require both parties to exchange accurate financial information so issues like support, division of property, and debts can be decided fairly. Skipping or submitting incomplete disclosures is one of the fastest ways to have your judgment rejected.
Tips to get disclosures right:
- Be thorough and honest — list assets, debts, income, and expenses.
- Attach supporting documents where appropriate (pay stubs, tax returns, account statements).
- Double-check numbers and sign/date forms where required.
- If you’re unsure, get help — errors cause delays and additional expense.
4. Prepare a Marital Settlement Agreement (if you both agree)
If both parties are on the same page, a Marital Settlement Agreement lays out the terms of your divorce — property division, debt allocation, parenting time, child and spousal support, and any other agreements. When executed correctly, the settlement makes it straightforward to assemble and submit the judgment package online.
5. Submit the judgment package online
With forms filed, service completed, disclosures exchanged, and (if applicable) a signed settlement agreement, you can submit the final judgment package electronically. Once accepted by the court, your divorce can be finalized without an in-person appearance.
Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
- Missing or incorrect local forms: San Diego County has its own requirements — include them.
- Incomplete financial disclosures: don’t guess or omit documents.
- Incorrect service: make sure service is properly documented or a signed acknowledgment is on file.
- Unsigned or incomplete settlement agreements: all signatures and dates must be present.
- Rushing the six-month waiting period: the court enforces statutory timelines — plan accordingly.
Real client story
We recently helped a San Diego couple complete their divorce entirely online. From initial filing to the final judgment they never had to step into court. They filed the petitions electronically, used an acknowledged service to start the waiting period, completed financial disclosures, signed a marital settlement agreement, and had their judgment entered — all remotely and efficiently.
How Divorce661 helps
At Divorce661 we offer full-service, flat-fee support for amicable divorces in California. We handle:
- Filing and e-filing with the court
- Service coordination and acknowledgement handling
- Preparation and review of financial disclosures
- Drafting and filing your Marital Settlement Agreement and judgment package
- 100% remote support for San Diego County
We also offer a free consultation to answer questions and confirm whether your case is a good fit for an entirely online process. Visit Divorce661.com to schedule a consultation or learn more.
Conclusion
Online divorce in San Diego County is a practical, efficient option for amicable couples who want to avoid court appearances. The keys to success are accurate forms, proper service, complete financial disclosures, and a clear settlement agreement when both parties agree. If you want a fast, accurate, and court-approved route to finalize your divorce remotely, get help — it makes the process smoother and prevents costly rejections.
Ready to start? Visit Divorce661.com for a free consultation and let us help you complete your San Diego online divorce the right way.