What to Do If Your Divorce Papers Are Rejected in San Diego County | San Diego Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

What to Do If Your Divorce Papers Are Rejected in San Diego County

I’m Tim Blankenship from Divorce661. If you filed for divorce in San Diego County and your paperwork was rejected, don’t panic—you’re not alone. Rejections are extremely common, especially when people try to navigate California’s mandatory e-filing and local court rules on their own. Below I’ll walk you through what a rejection notice means, the most common reasons filings are denied, practical steps to fix the problem, and how we can help move your case forward quickly.

Start Here: Read the Rejection Notice Carefully

When the court rejects your filing, they usually send a rejection notice listing the issues. That notice is your roadmap. Common items you’ll see include missing signatures, incorrect or missing forms, incomplete financial disclosures, or formatting problems related to the e-filing system.

The tricky part: rejection notices aren’t always written in plain English. People often get stuck trying to interpret legal jargon and then resubmit the same incorrect paperwork. Repeated mistakes can delay your case for months—or in some situations, lead to dismissal.

Common Reasons Divorce Papers Get Rejected

  • Missing signatures: The court requires original signatures in specific places on certain documents.
  • Incorrect forms: Using an outdated or wrong form can trigger a rejection.
  • Incomplete financial disclosures: Required schedules and attachments must be complete and attached.
  • Formatting issues with e-filing: San Diego’s mandatory e-filing has strict rules about how documents are uploaded and labeled.
  • Proof of service problems: The court needs proper proof that the other party was served according to the rules.
  • Minor technical errors: Typos, wrong case numbers, or missing exhibits are surprisingly common causes of rejection.

Step-by-Step: What to Do Right After a Rejection

  1. Don’t panic. Rejection is fixable—most cases are corrected quickly.
  2. Carefully review the rejection notice. Identify each item listed by the court and make a checklist.
  3. Confirm you’re using the correct, current forms. Courts update forms; using an old version can cause immediate rejection.
  4. Complete and attach all required financial disclosures. Missing financial paperwork is a frequent reason for rejection or delay.
  5. Check signatures and notarizations. Make sure signatures are in the required places and that any notarizations meet the court’s standards.
  6. Fix formatting and e-filing issues. Follow San Diego’s e-filing rules for file names, combined documents, and page size requirements.
  7. Resubmit—correctly. Don’t resubmit until you’ve addressed every item on the rejection notice. Repeated incorrect submissions waste time and can harm your case timeline.

Practical Tips to Avoid Rejection

  • Create a filing checklist before you submit anything.
  • Use the court’s local rules and e-filing guidelines as your reference.
  • Double-check case numbers, party names, and document titles.
  • Scan and combine exhibits as required so the e-filing system accepts them.
  • If you’re unsure about a requirement, contact the court clerk or seek professional help rather than guessing.

A Real Example: How We Fixed a Rejected Judgment in Two Weeks

We recently helped a client whose judgment was rejected three separate times for minor technical issues. They were frustrated and confused. We reviewed the entire file, identified the technical problems, corrected the documents, and refiled everything through the e-filing system. Their judgment was approved within two weeks. That case highlights two important lessons: small mistakes matter, and correcting them quickly prevents long delays.

When to Get Professional Help

If you’re not confident interpreting the rejection notice or you’ve already had multiple rejections, hiring experienced help can save time, reduce stress, and protect your case timeline. At Divorce661, we specialize in cleaning up rejected divorce filings. We will:

  • Review your rejected paperwork line-by-line
  • Identify exactly what the court wants
  • Correct forms, signatures, and formatting
  • Handle resubmission through the e-filing portal

Handling rejections yourself can be a costly gamble. If you keep guessing, your case can be delayed by months or even dismissed. Professional assistance ensures your documents are correct the first time you resubmit.

Next Steps and How I Can Help

If your divorce papers were rejected in San Diego County and you’re unsure what to do next, schedule a free consultation with me at Divorce661. We’ll review the court’s rejection, fix the mistakes, and get your case back on track so you can move forward without the stress of guessing what the court wants.

“We’ll fix the mistakes, get your case back on track, and help you move forward without the stress of doing it alone.”

If you want help now, visit Divorce661.com to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can support you through the resubmission process and beyond.

How to Finalize a Divorce in San Diego County in 6 Weeks | San Diego Divorce

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How to Finalize a Divorce in San Diego County in 6 Weeks

Hi, I’m Tim Blankenship with Divorce661. If you’re filing for divorce in San Diego County and wondering how fast you can finish everything, the short answer is: you can have all paperwork completed and submitted in as little as six weeks. In this article I’ll walk you through how that works, what the court requires, and how to stay on track so your final judgment is ready as soon as the law allows.

How the 6‑Week Timeline Works (and what it really means)

California law imposes a mandatory six‑month waiting period before a divorce can become final. That timeline runs from the date the respondent is served with the petition or from their signed acknowledgement of receipt. What many people don’t realize is that the six‑month clock only controls when the judgment becomes effective — not when you have to do the paperwork.

The most efficient approach is to complete every step of the process right away so the court has a fully prepared judgment package to approve the moment the six‑month waiting period ends. In practice, that means you can get everything filed, served, signed, and e‑filed within about four to six weeks and then simply let the mandatory clock run. The divorce becomes official at the six‑month mark; there’s nothing left to do but wait.

Why you should finish paperwork early

  • Minimize ongoing uncertainty: Handling all paperwork up front avoids being stuck in limbo for months or years later on.
  • Avoid repeated court interventions: When both parties agree and the judgment package is complete, there’s usually no need for hearings.
  • Reduce rejected filings: Properly prepared documents and e‑filing cut down on rejections and delays from the court clerk.
  • Simplify finances and life planning: A signed agreement and ready judgment let you move forward while the waiting period runs.

Step‑by‑step: What to do in the first 4–6 weeks

Below is the efficient workflow I follow with amicable couples using Divorce661. If you handle these steps quickly and correctly, the court will generally only be waiting on the clock — not missing paperwork.

  1. File the petition and initial paperwork: Prepare and file the Petition for Dissolution and related local forms required by San Diego County.
  2. Serve or obtain signed acknowledgement: Serve the other party, or have them sign an Acknowledgement of Receipt to start the six‑month clock.
  3. Full financial disclosures: Exchange income and asset information (required in California) so your agreement is informed and complete.
  4. Prepare the settlement agreement: Draft a Marital Settlement Agreement or Judgment that addresses property division, debts, spousal support (if any), and other terms.
  5. Sign and finalize documents: Both parties sign the agreement and the final judgment forms.
  6. E‑file the complete judgment package: Submit the signed judgment package to the San Diego Superior Court electronically so it’s ready for review.

What the court looks for in a proper judgment package

  • All required local and statewide forms are present and correctly completed.
  • Signatures and dates are in place for both parties where necessary.
  • Financial disclosures are exchanged and documented.
  • The settlement agreement is clear about division of assets, debts, support, and future responsibilities.
  • The e‑filed package meets local filing rules to avoid clerk rejections.

Real client example

We recently helped a San Diego couple file their divorce, prepare and sign their full agreement, and e‑file everything by day 31. Their case is now simply waiting out the mandatory clock — nothing else to do but let the timeline run. That’s how you truly finalize your divorce early: you take care of all the work up front so you aren’t stuck in limbo later.

“This is how you truly finalize your divorce early. You take care of all the work up front so you’re not stuck in limbo for months or years later on.”

Tips to stay on track and avoid delays

  • Be organized from the start: Gather paystubs, bank statements, deeds, retirement account info, and debt statements before you begin.
  • Communicate clearly with your spouse: Amicable cooperation speeds up signing and disclosures.
  • Use e‑filing correctly: Filing electronically with the proper formatting reduces clerk rejections.
  • Work with providers who know the local courts: San Diego has local form and procedural expectations; experience avoids common errors.

Common questions

Does finishing paperwork early make the divorce final sooner?

No. The judgment cannot take effect until the six‑month waiting period ends. However, completing the paperwork early means the judgment is ready to be entered immediately when the clock permits, eliminating months of additional delay.

Do we need attorneys or court appearances?

Not necessarily. For amicable, uncontested divorces, a full‑service document preparation and e‑filing approach can avoid court appearances and the need for attorneys. Complex or contested matters may still require legal counsel.

What if the court rejects the filing?

Proper preparation and e‑filing by someone experienced with San Diego procedures significantly reduces the chance of rejection. If a rejection happens, correct it promptly and resubmit to keep the timeline moving.

Conclusion and next steps

If you want to complete your divorce paperwork and move on with your life in as little as six weeks, take action now: gather your financial documents, agree on terms with your spouse if possible, and prepare everything for filing. At Divorce661, we handle the full process — filing, serving, disclosures, drafting the agreement, and e‑filing the final judgment package so it’s ready the moment the mandatory waiting period ends.

To learn more or schedule a free consultation, visit Divorce661.com. We’ll help you finalize your case fast — without court appearances, without attorneys, and without unnecessary stress.

San Diego County Divorce Laws: What You Need to Know | San Diego Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

San Diego County Divorce Laws: What You Need to Know

Hi, I’m Tim Blankenship with Divorce661. If you’re filing for divorce in San Diego County, it’s important to know how California law applies and how San Diego’s local court rules and procedures can affect your case. Below I’ve broken down the essentials so you can avoid common mistakes, move your case forward efficiently, and understand when to get help.

Quick overview: California basics you must know

Before we get into San Diego-specific rules, remember these two California fundamentals:

  • No-fault divorce: California is a no-fault divorce state. You do not need to prove wrongdoing—stating “irreconcilable differences” is sufficient.
  • Community property: Assets and debts acquired during the marriage are generally split 50/50. That includes income earned and debts incurred while married unless there is a valid agreement stating otherwise.

San Diego County rules that change the process

San Diego has local procedures that make filing different from simply dropping paperwork off at the clerk’s window. The most important point:

  • E-filing is mandatory. You cannot hand-file paper forms at the courthouse. All documents must be submitted electronically through the court’s e-filing system.
  • Strict formatting and filing requirements. San Diego requires specific formatting, accurate form completion, and the correct accompanying documents. Even small errors can cause the court to reject your filing.
  • Judges and clerks are efficient—when filings are correct. The court processes completed, properly filed documents quickly. Incorrect or incomplete filings slow everything down.

Common errors that lead to rejected filings (and how to avoid them)

From my experience handling San Diego County cases, these are the mistakes I see most often — and the easiest to prevent:

  • Missing or incomplete financial disclosures (required in almost every divorce case).
  • Improperly filled forms—incorrect dates, missing signatures, or the wrong version of a form.
  • Incorrect or incomplete attachments (pay stubs, tax returns, property documentation).
  • Improper service or missing proof of service.
  • Failing to follow e-filing technical requirements—wrong file types, improper document titles, or incorrectly formatted exhibits.

How to reduce the risk of rejection

  • Use the court’s most recent forms and review local rules before filing.
  • Double-check financial disclosures and attach required supporting documents.
  • Follow e-filing instructions exactly: filenames, document types, and required fields.
  • Consider a checklist or professional review before submission.

How San Diego courts handle disclosures and judgments

Financial disclosures are treated seriously. If disclosures are missing or inadequate, the court will not approve judgments or final orders. Judges in San Diego move cases quickly when documents are complete and properly formatted, so the better prepared you are, the faster the process.

“We recently worked with a client who had tried to file on their own. Their judgment was rejected twice due to missing financial disclosures and improperly filled forms. Once they hired us, we corrected the errors, resubmitted everything, and the judgment was approved within 2 weeks.”

What Divorce661 offers and how I help

At Divorce661 I focus on San Diego County divorces. That local knowledge matters because I know the court’s exact requirements and how to avoid the most common pitfalls. My goal is to keep your case moving quickly and efficiently—without you having to go to court or hire a traditional attorney.

  • Full-service, flat-fee divorce support: predictable pricing without hourly billing.
  • 100% done-for-you paperwork and e-filing: I prepare, review, and submit everything to the court electronically.
  • Local expertise: familiarity with San Diego County local rules and judge preferences.
  • Fast, affordable, and court-free solutions: designed for amicable, uncontested divorces.

Step-by-step checklist before you file in San Diego County

  1. Gather financial documents: pay stubs, last 2 years of tax returns, bank and investment statements, mortgage statements, and debt information.
  2. Complete required forms, including initial disclosure forms and property/debt schedules.
  3. Verify you’re using the latest court forms and follow San Diego local rules for formatting.
  4. Prepare any proposed agreements (e.g., property settlement agreement, parenting plan if applicable).
  5. E-file all documents through the court’s e-filing portal; ensure file types and document names meet court requirements.
  6. Serve the other party and file proof of service with the court.
  7. Be aware of California’s mandatory waiting period—final judgment cannot be entered until at least six months from service of the petition.

Final thoughts and next steps

Filing for divorce in San Diego County is straightforward if you understand California law and the county’s e-filing and formatting rules. Small mistakes can cause significant delays, but they are avoidable with proper preparation or professional help.

If you want to make sure your San Diego divorce goes smoothly, visit Divorce661.com to schedule a free consultation. I’ll help you take the guesswork out of the process and complete your divorce correctly—quickly and affordably.

How to Get a Cheap Divorce in San Diego Without Sacrificing Quality | San Diego Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

How to Get a Cheap Divorce in San Diego Without Sacrificing Quality

Hi, I’m Tim Blankenship from Divorce661. If you’re thinking about getting divorced in San Diego County but worried about the cost, you’re not alone. Many people assume a low-cost divorce means poor service or endless frustration. I’m here to show you a smarter path: how to keep costs down while getting professional, accurate, and timely results.

Why a DIY Divorce Often Backfires

Doing it yourself can seem like the cheapest route, but courts in San Diego require electronic filing and strict document standards. Small mistakes — a missing signature, incorrect formatting, or a filing error — can lead to rejections and long delays.

People who attempt a DIY divorce frequently end up hiring someone later to fix the mistakes, which drives the total cost higher than if they had used a professional service from the beginning.

San Diego’s E-Filing System Adds Complexity

Electronic filing (e-filing) is convenient when everything’s done correctly, but it’s less forgiving of errors than paper filings used to be. The court will often reject filings for minor technical issues. That means more time, more frustration, and sometimes more money.

To avoid hassles, you need either deep familiarity with the e-filing rules or a service that files accurately the first time.

The Smarter Alternative: Flat-Fee Divorce Services

A flat-fee service is a great middle ground between DIY and hiring a high-cost attorney. With a flat fee you know the cost up front — no billable hours, no surprise charges, and no hidden fees.

At Divorce661 we specialize in amicable (uncontested) divorces and handle everything end-to-end so you don’t have to worry about court procedures or paperwork rejections.

What a Quality Flat-Fee Service Should Provide

  • Accurate preparation of all required documents
  • Proper service of documents
  • Guidance and preparation for financial disclosures
  • A clear marital settlement agreement tailored to your situation
  • Final judgment submission and follow-through with the court

Real Example: Faster and Cheaper Than a Law Firm

Here’s a real case that illustrates the value of the right service: A couple was quoted $4,000 by a law firm just to process their uncontested divorce. We handled their case for a fraction of that price, completed the judgment paperwork in one week, and had it approved by the court without a single rejection.

That’s the benefit of focusing only on what’s necessary and doing it right the first time.

How We Keep Your Costs Low Without Cutting Corners

Our approach is simple and efficient:

  1. Focus on amicable, uncontested cases where streamlined processes work best.
  2. Deliver flat-fee pricing so clients know the total cost up front.
  3. Prepare and file documents accurately to avoid rejections and delays.
  4. Provide clear guidance so you can complete necessary disclosures and sign agreements with confidence.

Who Is a Good Candidate for This Approach?

  • Couples who agree on the major issues (property division, debts, support, custody if applicable)
  • People who want to avoid court appearances and lengthy negotiations
  • Anyone who wants professional handling of filings without paying attorney billable hours

How to Get Started

If you’re ready to save money without sacrificing quality, schedule a free consultation. We’ll walk you through the process, explain what’s required in San Diego County, and show you how we can finalize your divorce professionally and affordably.

Visit Divorce661.com to schedule a free consultation or to learn more about our flat-fee divorce services. We finalize divorces without court appearances whenever possible and make the process as painless as we can.

Conclusion

A cheap divorce doesn’t have to mean poor service. With the right flat-fee solution — one that understands San Diego’s e-filing rules and focuses on doing the job correctly the first time — you can get an affordable, fast, and professional divorce.

If affordability with quality matters to you, reach out and let us show you how simple an uncontested divorce can be when handled by experienced professionals.

“No billable hours, no hidden fees, just professional, affordable service that delivers results.”

Should You Use a Divorce Service in San Diego County? | San Diego Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

Should You Use a Divorce Service in San Diego County?

Hi — I’m Tim Blankenship from Divorce661. In my video I explain why a flat-fee divorce service is often the smartest choice for couples in San Diego County who are amicable and want to avoid the expense and stress of hiring an attorney. Below I’ll walk you through when a divorce service makes sense, what makes San Diego different, common pitfalls with e-filing, a real client example, and how my team can help you finish your divorce quickly and affordably.

When a divorce service makes sense

If you and your spouse are in agreement (or mostly in agreement) on the major issues — property division, support, custody and visitation, and the like — you don’t necessarily need an attorney. A professional divorce service offers a done-for-you process at a flat fee to prepare, file, and manage your uncontested divorce from start to finish.

Use a divorce service if you want to:

    • Save thousands compared to typical attorney fees
    • Avoid court appearances
    • Have someone familiar with local court procedures handle paperwork and filing
    • Reduce the time and hassle of learning complex court rules and forms

Why San Diego County is different: e-filing and local rules

San Diego County has specific local rules that matter. One of the biggest differences is mandatory electronic filing. All divorce paperwork in San Diego must be e-filed. That sounds simple, but courts will reject filings that are incomplete, formatted incorrectly, or missing required local forms.

Rejections can mean multiple rounds of resubmission, delays, and confusion — especially for people attempting a DIY filing for the first time. That’s why knowledge of the court’s timelines, naming conventions, local forms, and e-filing requirements isn’t just helpful — it’s essential.

Common e-filing mistakes

    • Missing local cover sheets or county-specific forms
    • Incorrectly completed judgments or final orders
    • Inconsistent information across documents (names, dates, case numbers)
    • Improper formatting for e-filing portals
    • Failing to serve or attach required disclosures

Real client story: how we fixed a rejected filing in 2 weeks

Here’s a real example from our practice. A San Diego couple started their divorce on their own and ran into a wall when they tried to e-file their judgment. The court kept rejecting the submission and they didn’t know why.

“After reviewing their case, we corrected the errors, resubmitted everything, and had their judgment approved in less than 2 weeks.”

What we did for them:

    1. Reviewed all submitted documents to find inconsistencies and missing local forms.
    2. Corrected and completed the judgment and supporting documents so they matched the court’s e-filing requirements.
    3. Resubmitted the package and communicated with the court when necessary to get approval quickly.

Because we know San Diego County’s local rules, we were able to eliminate unnecessary delay and confusion and finalize the case without any court appearances.

What Divorce661 handles for amicable cases

We specialize in uncontested or largely agreed-upon divorces in San Diego County. Our full-service offering includes:

    • Preparing all required forms and agreements
    • Handling mandatory disclosures
    • Formatting documents for electronic filing
    • Filing everything with the court and tracking the case
    • Cleaning up partial DIY attempts and taking over mid-process
    • Providing a flat-fee so you won’t get surprise bills

That means you can often finish your divorce without hiring an attorney or stepping foot in court.

How to decide: DIY, divorce service, or attorney?

Consider these quick guidelines:

    • DIY: May work if the case is extremely simple and you’re comfortable learning e-filing and local rules. Be prepared for rejections and delays.
    • Divorce service: Ideal for amicable spouses who want a faster, cheaper, and less-stressful path. You get professional preparation and e-filing without hourly attorney fees.
    • Attorney: Necessary when there are disputes, high assets, complex custody issues, or when negotiation and courtroom advocacy are required.

If you’ve started the process yourself and gotten stuck, a good divorce service can take over and correct filings to avoid further delay or court trouble.

Next steps — how I can help

If you’re filing in San Diego County and want to avoid paying thousands to a lawyer, a professional divorce service is a practical alternative when your case is amicable. At Divorce661 we handle the entire process — from drafting agreements to e-filing — with a focus on accuracy and speed.

To get started, schedule a free consultation at Divorce661.com. We’ll review your situation, explain your options, and let you know whether a flat-fee, done-for-you divorce is the right fit. If it is, we’ll take over and make sure the court accepts your paperwork the first time.

Final thoughts

Divorce doesn’t have to be expensive or drawn out. With the right support and someone who understands San Diego County’s e-filing rules, you can save time, money, and stress — and finalize your divorce without unnecessary court appearances. If your case is amicable, a divorce service is often the easiest and most cost-effective route.

Visit Divorce661.com to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can help you finish your divorce the easy way.

How to File for Divorce in San Diego Without Stress | San Diego Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

How to File for Divorce in San Diego Without Stress

Introduction

Hi, I’m Tim Blankenship with Divorce661. If you’re thinking about filing for divorce in San Diego, I want you to know it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right paperwork, a clear process, and a little help when you need it, you can move through your divorce quickly, affordably, and without unnecessary stress. Below I break down the steps I walk clients through every day, what to expect, common mistakes to avoid, and how to get the support that keeps everything simple.

Start with the Right Paperwork

The first step is completing and filing the proper forms. Most uncontested divorce cases in California begin with these documents:

  • FL-100 — Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
  • FL-110 — Summons
  • FL-105 — Declaration Under Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA), if you have children

San Diego County requires electronic filing for divorce cases. The court does not accept walk-in filings for these matters, so you’ll need to submit your forms through the court’s e-filing system or use a service that files for you.

How to Serve Your Spouse

After filing, the next essential step is legally serving your spouse with the filed paperwork. Important points:

  • Someone other than you must serve the documents. You cannot serve your own spouse.
  • Service must be done properly under California rules; improper service can delay or invalidate your case.
  • Once service is complete, you must file proof of service with the court (this documents that your spouse received the papers).

What Happens After Service: Disclosures, Agreements, Judgment

Once your spouse has been served, the case moves through a few predictable stages:

  • Financial disclosures — Both parties exchange information about assets, debts, income, and expenses. Full disclosure is required and critical to finalizing an agreement.
  • Negotiation and agreement — Many couples reach a settlement on property division, support, and parenting outside of court. When you have an agreement, that document becomes the basis for the final judgment.
  • Final judgment package — The paperwork that finalizes the divorce is prepared and filed. If everything is in order, the court will enter the judgment without a hearing.

Each stage has specific forms and timing rules. Missing or incorrect forms are the most common cause of delays.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Most mistakes happen early—during the initial filing and e-filing process. Typical issues include incomplete forms, incorrect service, and confusion over which documents the court requires. These problems can create frustration and costly delays.

“The forms were overwhelming, the e‑filing system was confusing, and she wasn’t sure how to move forward.”

That quote describes a recent client who began on her own and got stuck after filing. By reviewing her paperwork, correcting a few errors, and re-filing properly, we got her case back on track and finalized without court appearances or added stress.

How Divorce661 Makes the Process Easy

At Divorce661 we specialize in stress-free divorce services for San Diego County. Our approach is designed for amicable or uncontested cases and focuses on making the process simple and predictable:

  • Flat-fee, full-service divorce filings so you know costs up front
  • 100% online — paperwork, e-filing, and communications handled remotely
  • We prepare, file, arrange service, manage disclosures, and submit the final judgment package
  • No court appearances required for most cases

That means you don’t have to figure out the court’s e-filing system, worry about serving documents correctly, or guess which forms to file next. We handle the technical details while you focus on moving forward.

Simple Step-by-Step Checklist

  1. Complete initial forms (FL-100, FL-110, FL-105 if applicable).
  2. E-file those forms with the San Diego Superior Court.
  3. Arrange for proper service and file proof of service with the court.
  4. Exchange financial disclosures with your spouse.
  5. Negotiate and prepare a written agreement covering property, support, and parenting (if needed).
  6. File the final judgment package and any required supporting documents.
  7. Receive your final judgment—your divorce is finalized.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Filing for divorce in San Diego doesn’t have to be confusing, expensive, or emotionally draining. With correct forms, proper service, and the right support, you can complete the process efficiently and with far less stress.

If you want help filing the easy way, visit Divorce661.com to schedule a free consultation. We’ll review your situation, prepare and file the correct paperwork, manage service and disclosures, and carry your case through to final judgment—without court appearances and with predictable pricing.

Divorce661 Reviews: Is Divorce661 the Best Divorce Service in San Diego? | San Diego Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

Divorce661 Reviews: Is Divorce661 the Best Divorce Service in San Diego?

Hi, I’m Tim Blankenship with Divorce661. If you’re going through a San Diego divorce and want a reliable, affordable, and efficient path to finalizing your case, this guide is for you. I’ll walk through what sets Divorce661 apart, how our process works, and why so many San Diego couples choose our flat-fee, remote divorce service over DIY forms or expensive attorneys.

Why choose Divorce661?

We specialize exclusively in amicable, uncontested divorces across California. That focus lets us streamline every part of the process so you don’t have to worry about confusing paperwork, missed court requirements, or unexpected fees. Key benefits include:

  • 100% done-for-you service: We prepare and file every document on your behalf so you don’t have to wrestle with court forms.
  • Flat fee—no surprises: One predictable price covers the full process from start to finish.
  • Remote and court-free when possible: Most of our cases are handled electronically without clients needing to appear in court.
  • San Diego court expertise: We know local rules and filing requirements, which helps avoid the delays that trip up DIY filers.
  • Speed and efficiency: Because we file correctly and electronically, many cases finalize in just a few weeks.

Who is this service best for?

Divorce661 is designed for couples who want an amicable, uncontested divorce—partners who are in agreement about property division, finances, and parental arrangements (if applicable). Our service is ideal when:

  • You want to avoid spending thousands on attorneys for a straightforward divorce.
  • You and your spouse already agree on the major issues and simply need properly prepared, court-ready documents.
  • You want a remote solution that handles e-filing and court submissions for you.

If your divorce is contested, involves complex asset division, or requires litigation, a lawyer may be the appropriate route. As a professional document preparation service, we prepare accurate, court-approved agreements but do not represent clients in contested hearings.

How our process works

  1. Free consultation: We start with a no-cost phone consultation to confirm your case is suitable for our service and to answer your questions.
  2. Document preparation: We gather the necessary information and prepare every court form and agreement tailored to your situation.
  3. Review and approval: You and your spouse review the documents and approve them before filing.
  4. Electronic filing: We file everything electronically with the San Diego courts and correct any issues that arise during intake.
  5. Final judgment: Once approved by the court, we secure the final judgment and provide you with the completed case files.

Real client experience

“We tried doing it ourselves, but kept getting rejected by the court. Divorce 661 took over, filed everything electronically, and we were done in just a few weeks. It was stress-free and way cheaper than hiring attorneys.”

This kind of feedback is common. Many clients start with a DIY approach only to run into rejections, missed local requirements, or slow manual filings. Because we handle the entire process and understand San Diego court procedures, we eliminate those roadblocks and get cases moving again.

What Divorce661 is (and isn’t)

It’s important to be clear about what our service provides:

  • We are: A professional divorce document preparation company focused on California divorces. We prepare court-approved agreements, handle e-filing, and manage the path to final judgments.
  • We are not: A law firm. We do not provide litigation or legal representation in contested matters. We prepare documents and guide the process for amicable, uncontested cases.

Why San Diego clients trust us

We’ve helped thousands of clients navigate uncontested divorces across California. Our deep knowledge of San Diego courts lets us avoid common filing errors and procedural delays. Combined with a streamlined, remote workflow and many five-star reviews, that expertise translates to confidence and speed for our clients.

Cost and value

One of the biggest reasons clients choose Divorce661 is cost-effectiveness. A flat-fee model means no hourly bills or surprise charges. Compared to hiring attorneys for an uncomplicated divorce, our clients typically save thousands while still receiving a complete, court-compliant solution.

Next steps

If you’re ready to move forward or just want to learn whether Divorce661 is the right fit, schedule a free consultation. We’ll review your situation, explain the process, and confirm whether an uncontested, remote divorce is appropriate for you.

To get started, visit divorce661.com and book your free phone consultation.

Conclusion

For San Diego couples seeking a fast, affordable, and stress-free way to finalize an amicable divorce, Divorce661 offers a focused, done-for-you solution. With local court expertise, electronic filing, and a predictable flat fee, we handle the paperwork and logistics so you can move forward with confidence.

What Happens If Your Spouse Doesn’t Respond to Divorce Papers in San Diego? | San Diego Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

What Happens If Your Spouse Doesn’t Respond to Divorce Papers in San Diego?

Hi — I’m Tim Blankenship from Divorce661. In this post I’ll walk you through what happens if you’ve filed for divorce in San Diego County and your spouse doesn’t file a response. If your spouse is unresponsive, you don’t have to sit and wait forever. There is a clear process in California that lets you move forward with a default divorce, but only if you follow the steps correctly.

Quick overview: the 30‑day response window

After you serve divorce papers, California law gives the other spouse 30 days to file a response with the court. If they don’t file anything within those 30 days, you may proceed with a default. That means the court can finalize the divorce without your spouse’s participation — but it’s not automatic. You must take affirmative steps to have the court enter default and then obtain a default judgment.

What a default divorce means

A default divorce allows the court to grant the relief you requested even though the other spouse didn’t respond. The judge will consider the documents you submit and can finalize the dissolution of marriage, divide assets and debts, and make orders regarding spousal support, custody, visitation, and other issues — as long as you have properly documented your requests and disclosures.

Required paperwork: don’t skip steps

Failing to file the right documents, or filing them incorrectly, is the most common reason default cases get delayed or rejected. Typical items you’ll need include:

  • Request to Enter Default — the formal filing that asks the court to enter default after the 30‑day response period has passed.
  • Financial disclosures — income and expense declarations, and disclosures showing assets and liabilities. The court expects a full financial picture even in default cases.
  • Proposed judgment — the judgment you want the judge to sign, showing how you want the case resolved (property division, support, custody if applicable).
  • Declarations or supporting papers — any additional affidavits or proof required to support your requests (for example, proof of service, proof of residency, etc.).

Each county may have local filing rules and requirements. In San Diego, proper completion and filing of these forms is crucial. If a form is missing or filled out incorrectly, the court can reject your proposed judgment and you’ll face further delays.

Common mistakes that cause delays

  • Assuming that service alone starts the default process — you must file the Request to Enter Default after the 30 days.
  • Incomplete or missing financial disclosures — the court expects a full accounting even when the other party is absent.
  • Submitting a proposed judgment with errors or inconsistencies — judges won’t sign documents that don’t reflect required legal language or local form expectations.
  • Failing to follow local court filing rules (format, signatures, exhibits) — each rejection requires corrections and slows down the finalization.

A real example from San Diego

One client served her spouse and assumed everything was moving forward. Months passed and nothing happened because she never filed the Request to Enter Default. Once we stepped in, we prepared the missing forms, completed the financial disclosures, and filed the proposed judgment correctly. Her divorce judgment was approved in just a few weeks — all because the right paperwork was filed the right way.

How we can help

At Divorce661 we specialize in default divorce cases in San Diego, especially when one spouse is unresponsive. Our flat‑fee services include:

  • Reviewing your case and advising what’s required to move forward
  • Preparing and filing the Request to Enter Default and all required paperwork
  • Ensuring financial disclosures and proposed judgments meet court standards
  • Handling 100% online filing and all communications with the San Diego court

If you want to move forward without your spouse, we’ll make sure everything is complete and correctly filed so you don’t face unnecessary delays or rejections.

Next steps

  1. Confirm that 30 days have passed since service.
  2. Gather all required financial information and documents (income, expenses, assets, debts).
  3. Prepare and file a Request to Enter Default, proposed judgment, and supporting disclosures.
  4. If you want help, schedule a consultation so an experienced team can prepare and file everything for you.

If your spouse hasn’t responded and you’re ready to move forward, visit Divorce661.com to schedule a free consultation. We’ll walk you through the default process, prepare the paperwork, and work to finalize your divorce as quickly and smoothly as possible.

Conclusion

Not hearing back from your spouse after serving divorce papers is stressful, but it doesn’t mean you’re stuck. California law allows you to obtain a default divorce after the 30‑day response window — provided you file the proper paperwork. Take the right steps, avoid common mistakes, and get help if you need it so your case can be resolved without unnecessary delay.

How to Handle Spousal Support in a San Diego County Divorce | San Diego Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

How to Handle Spousal Support in a San Diego County Divorce

I’m Tim Blankenship from Divorce661. If you’re going through a divorce in San Diego County, spousal support (alimony) is one of the issues that can create real stress and uncertainty. In this article I’ll walk you through how spousal support works in California, how it is calculated locally in San Diego, what factors courts consider, when support can be waived, and how to create enforceable agreements that protect both parties—without unnecessary court battles.

Overview: What Is Spousal Support and Who Gets It?

Spousal support is financial assistance one spouse may pay to the other after separation or divorce. The goal under California law is to help the lower-earning spouse maintain a standard of living similar to the marital standard, at least temporarily while they transition to self-sufficiency.

Important to know: spousal support is not automatic. Whether it applies, how much, and for how long depends on the specifics of your marriage, finances, and needs.

Two Kinds of Support: Temporary vs. Long-Term

Temporary (Pendings) Support

Temporary support is ordered during the divorce process to maintain stability until the final judgment. In San Diego County, the court and many attorneys use a standard software program called DissoMaster to calculate temporary support amounts. DissoMaster takes into account incomes, deductions, childcare, and other standard items to produce a worksheet the court will accept.

Because the purpose is interim stability, temporary support tends to be formula-driven and relatively straightforward to compute.

Long-Term (Post-Judgment) Support

Long-term or permanent support is negotiated between the spouses or decided by the court at final judgment. These awards are based on a broader set of factors under California Family Code section 4320 (more on those below). Unlike temporary orders, long-term support often involves balancing financial realities, earning potential, and the goal of facilitating self-sufficiency.

What the Court Considers: Family Code Section 4320

When the court determines long-term support, it looks at multiple factors. Here are the most relevant ones you should expect to discuss or document:

  • Length of the marriage — Short marriages often result in shorter support orders; long marriages can yield support for several years or until further order.
  • Each party’s income and earning capacity — Current earnings and potential to earn in the future.
  • Marketable skills, job history, and time needed to gain training — Whether one spouse needs time or education to become self-supporting.
  • Age and health — Physical or mental limitations that affect ability to work.
  • Standard of living during the marriage — The lifestyle the parties enjoyed while married.
  • Assets and debts — Available resources that could affect need for support.
  • Contributions to the marriage — Including homemaking and supporting the other’s career or education.
  • Any history of domestic violence — Which the court must consider.
  • Tax consequences — How support affects each party’s tax situation.

These factors are weighed together—there is no single formula for long-term support. That’s why many couples negotiate an agreement tailored to their situation rather than leaving it to a judge.

When Support Can Be Waived

Support can be waived if both parties agree. I recently helped a San Diego couple who were unsure whether support was even necessary. After reviewing both incomes and expenses, we created a custom agreement that waived spousal support entirely because their incomes were nearly equal and neither party demonstrated a significant need. That agreement saved them months (or years) of payments and eliminated future courtroom headaches.

Waiving support is an option when the parties are confident the outcome is fair and both understand the long-term consequences. Any waiver should be documented in a clear, enforceable written agreement that the court can approve.

How We Help: Drafting Enforceable, Practical Agreements

At Divorce661 we help clients evaluate whether spousal support applies and, if it does, how to structure it so the terms are fair, enforceable, and realistic. Typical options include:

  • Waiving spousal support entirely when incomes and needs are balanced.
  • Agreeing to a fixed monthly amount for a specified period (bridge support).
  • Creating a formula-based payment tied to income changes.
  • Including modification clauses that explain when and how payments can change.

We prepare the paperwork courts need so agreements are likely to be approved and enforceable. Our process is designed to keep amicable cases out of court and avoid the cost and delay of litigation.

Modifying Support Later

Spousal support is not always permanent in the sense of being unchangeable. If circumstances change—loss of job, significant change in income, serious health issues, remarriage or cohabitation for the supported spouse—support can often be modified. Whether a court will allow a modification depends on the terms of the agreement or order and whether the change is substantial and continuing.

When negotiating agreements, I recommend thinking ahead: include clear terms about modification triggers and procedures to reduce future disputes.

Practical Tips When Facing Spousal Support Decisions

  1. Gather detailed financial documentation for both spouses (income, taxes, debts, expenses).
  2. Use DissoMaster or an equivalent worksheet for temporary calculations so the court has a clear baseline.
  3. Consider whether a short-term bridge payment makes more sense than a long-term order.
  4. If you choose to waive support, document the waiver clearly and get court approval.
  5. Plan for future modifications by including sensible, objective triggers in your agreement.

Conclusion — Make Smart, Strategic Decisions

Spousal support can be simple or complex depending on your situation. The key is to evaluate incomes and needs carefully, use the right tools (like DissoMaster for temporary orders), and negotiate an agreement that’s fair and enforceable. Whether you decide to include support, waive it, or set a fixed amount for a period, thoughtful planning now can save time, money, and stress later.

If you’re filing for divorce in San Diego and want guidance on spousal support, visit Divorce661 to schedule a free consultation. We’ll help you make informed decisions and move forward with confidence—often without going to court.

San Diego Divorce Timeline: What to Expect | San Diego Divorce

Posted by Tim Blankenship on

 

San Diego Divorce Timeline: What to Expect

Hi, I’m Tim Blankenship with Divorce661. If you’re planning to file for divorce in San Diego County, one of the first questions I hear is, “How long will it take?” While every case is different, there are clear milestones and strategies that determine how quickly your divorce can move from filing to final judgment. Below I break down a typical San Diego timeline, explain the mandatory waiting period, and show how to get through the process as efficiently as possible.

Quick Overview: The Most Important Rule

The single most important thing to know is California’s mandatory 6-month waiting period. Simply put, “your divorce can’t be finalized any sooner than 6 months,” and that clock starts the day your spouse is served with the petition or signs a Notice of Acknowledgement of Receipt.

That said, the 6-month wait is not a reason to delay doing the work. In fact, the fastest divorces are the ones where all paperwork is prepared, served, and filed correctly right away so your judgment package is ready for the court the moment they’re allowed to consider it.

San Diego-Specific Process & Advantages

San Diego County requires electronic filing for family law documents, and processing times here tend to be quicker and more predictable than in some other counties. Because of e-filing and efficient processing, it’s possible to have everything submitted and queued for approval well before the 6-month mark.

Why this matters

  • E-filing reduces clerical delays and speeds up document intake.
  • If your judgment package is complete and submitted early (for example, on day 31), the court can approve it as soon as the 6-month waiting period expires.

Step-by-Step Timeline: What to Expect

Here are the typical milestones I walk every client through at Divorce661:

  • Prepare the petition and paperwork: Draft the marital settlement agreement, financial disclosures, and the petition/response forms.
  • Service of process: Serve your spouse or obtain their signed Notice of Acknowledgement of Receipt. This is the day the 6-month clock starts.
  • Complete disclosures: Exchange income and asset disclosures as required by California law.
  • Reach and sign an agreement: Negotiate and sign a Marital Settlement Agreement if the divorce is uncontested.
  • Submit the judgment package: Get your completed judgment package ready and file it with the court—the goal is to submit it as soon as the court allows so it’s ready for approval when the 6-month period ends.
  • Court approval and final judgment: Once the waiting period has passed and the court approves the paperwork, your divorce is finalized.

Real Example: Fastest Possible Route

We recently worked with a couple who filed and signed everything within two weeks. We then submitted their judgment package on day 31. Because the package was complete and ready to go, the court approved the judgment a few weeks later and their divorce was finalized on the first day it legally could be. No needless delays. No extra court appearances.

Common Pitfalls That Cause Delays

  • Incomplete or incorrect paperwork — missing signatures, wrong forms, or inconsistent financial information.
  • Improper service — if service isn’t done correctly, the 6-month clock may not start, or the court may reject documents.
  • Late or inadequate disclosures — failing to exchange required documents can trigger continuances or orders to produce information.
  • Waiting to prepare documents — putting off paperwork means you lose valuable time that could be used to queue judgment for approval.

Practical Tips to Stay on the Fast Track

  • Prepare everything early: Don’t wait for the 6 months to start drafting agreements and assembling disclosures.
  • File and serve correctly: Proper service starts the clock; proper filing keeps the court moving your case forward.
  • Submit your judgment package promptly: In San Diego, submitting as early as permitted (we often target day 31) makes your case ready for approval when the waiting period ends.
  • Use flat-fee, done-for-you services if helpful: Accurate, court-approved agreements and experienced guidance reduce the chance of errors that cause delays.
  • Avoid unnecessary court appearances: Many uncontested divorces can be finalized without you having to appear in court if paperwork is complete and correct.

How Divorce661 Helps

At Divorce661 we guide you through every step: filing, service, disclosures, agreements, and the final judgment package. Our focus is on keeping your case moving—missing a deadline or making a paperwork error is what typically causes delays, and we know the local San Diego court rules that prevent those slip-ups.

If you want to get through your divorce as quickly and smoothly as possible, visit divorce661.com to schedule a free consultation. We’ll help you map out the fastest route to finalizing your divorce without the stress, confusion, or unnecessary court appearances.

Conclusion

Getting divorced in San Diego can be efficient and predictable if you know the timeline and act strategically. Remember: the 6-month waiting period is mandatory, but it doesn’t mean you have to wait to get started. Prepare, serve, and file correctly right away, submit your judgment package as soon as the court allows, and you can often finalize your divorce at the earliest legal opportunity.

“The fastest way to get divorced is to prepare, serve, and file everything correctly right away.”