What Happens if Your Spouse Doesn’t Respond to Divorce Papers in Santa Clarita?

If you filed for divorce in Santa Clarita and your spouse ignores the papers, you are not stuck. California law gives you a clear path to move forward even when the other side stays silent. Below I explain the timeline, what a default judgment is, the steps to finalize a default divorce, and how we can help you complete the process efficiently.

How long does my spouse have to respond?

Once your spouse is properly served with the divorce papers, they have 30 days to file a response with the court. That 30 day period is a hard deadline for filing a formal response. If no response is filed within that time, you can proceed with requesting a default judgment.

What is a default judgment?

A default judgment lets the court finalize the divorce without your spouse participating. It means the court can enter orders for dissolution of marriage, property division, and other issues based on the paperwork you submit. The process often requires no court appearance when handled correctly.

Step by step: How to finalize a divorce when the other side does not respond

1. Proper serviceFirst, make sure your spouse was properly served with the summons and petition. Proper service starts the 30 day response clock. If service was defective, the default process will not be valid.
2. Wait 30 daysAfter proper service, wait the full 30 day period. If no response is filed in that time, you are eligible to request default.
3. Prepare default judgment paperworkPrepare and file the necessary forms to request a default judgment. This typically includes declarations about service, proposed orders, and any final agreements about property, debts, or support.
4. File with the courtFile the default paperwork with the court and provide any required supporting documents. The court will review the submissions and, if everything is in order, enter judgment.
5. FinalizationWhen done correctly, the case can be finalized without a court appearance. The judge signs the final judgment and the divorce is complete.

A real example from Santa Clarita

We recently helped a Santa Clarita client whose spouse simply ignored the divorce papers. After the 30 day period passed, we prepared and filed the default judgment paperwork. The case was finalized without a court appearance, and the client was able to move on without delay.

“After the 30 day deadline, we filed a default judgment, and her divorce was finalized—no court appearance, no delay.”

What if the spouse responds late?

If the spouse files a response after the default has been entered, they can ask the court for relief from default by showing good cause for the late response. Courts evaluate these requests case by case. Because of this possibility, it is important that your default paperwork is accurate and complete to reduce the chance of delays or disputes later.

Common concerns in default divorces

• Property and debt division: The default judgment can include your proposed division, but you must clearly document agreements or requests in your filing.
• Child custody and support: Courts are protective of children’s best interests. Even in default cases, you need appropriate documentation for custody or support orders.
• Spouse contests after default: A late contest may result in litigation if the court grants relief from default. Proper preparation reduces this risk.

How we handle default divorces for Santa Clarita clients

We specialize in default divorces across California. Our process includes:

• Ensuring your spouse is properly served so the 30 day period starts correctly
• Tracking all deadlines so you do not miss critical dates
• Preparing and filing complete default judgment paperwork tailored to your situation
• Pursuing finalization without unnecessary court appearances when possible

We offer a flat fee, all inclusive service that is 100 percent remote and court approved. If your spouse has not responded to your divorce papers in Santa Clarita, we can take it from here and help you finalize the divorce even if the other side stays silent.

Next steps

If your spouse is not responding, do not panic. Confirm proper service and the 30 day timeline, then move forward with a default filing if appropriate. For personalized help, visit divorce661.com and schedule your free consultation. We will review your situation, prepare the necessary paperwork, and help you complete your Santa Clarita divorce efficiently and professionally.