How to Get a Divorce in San Diego Without Going to Court
I’m Tim Blankenship from Divorce661. If you’re in San Diego and wondering whether you can finalize a divorce without stepping into a courtroom, the short answer is yes—when the divorce is uncontested. In this guide I’ll walk you through the exact steps to complete an uncontested divorce remotely, explain why each step matters, and show how many couples finish the process quickly, affordably, and with far less stress.
Why an uncontested divorce?
An uncontested divorce means both spouses agree on the major issues—property division, support, and (if applicable) custody—so there’s no need for hearings or court appearances. This approach saves time, reduces stress, and lowers costs compared with a contested process. At Divorce661 we help couples complete the entire process 100% remotely: from e-filing to the final judgment.
The step-by-step process
-
E-file your divorce petition
The first formal step is to e-file the Petition with the San Diego court system. Filing the petition starts the legal process and sets things in motion with the court.
-
Ensure proper service or signed receipt
After filing, your spouse must be served with the paperwork or sign a receipt acknowledging they received it. Proper service is essential for the court to accept the case and for the process to move forward.
-
Complete financial disclosures
Both parties must complete and exchange financial disclosures. This transparency is crucial for fairness and court approval—it shows assets, liabilities, income, and expenses so agreements on division and support are informed and enforceable.
-
Draft and sign the Marital Settlement Agreement
The Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA) is the core document in an uncontested divorce. It outlines agreements on property division, spousal support, child custody and support (if applicable), and any other terms. Both parties must agree to and sign the MSA—this document becomes the backbone of your divorce judgment.
-
E-file the judgment for court approval
Once all documents are signed and disclosures are complete, you e-file the judgment package for the court’s approval. If the paperwork is in order, the court can enter the final judgment without requiring you to appear in court.
What documents you’ll typically use
- Divorce Petition (e-filed with the court)
- Proof of service or signed receipt
- Financial disclosures (income and asset declarations)
- Marital Settlement Agreement (signed by both parties)
- Judgment package for e-filing
Timeline and real results
Every case is different, but uncomplicated uncontested divorces can move very quickly. We’ve helped a San Diego couple complete filing, service, disclosure, and final judgment in just over six weeks—100% online, with no court visits required. That’s a good benchmark for what’s possible when both parties are cooperative and the paperwork is prepared correctly.
“Many couples have successfully finalized their divorce in just over 6 weeks using this method.”
Benefits of handling an uncontested divorce remotely
- Save time—no need to wait for court dates
- Reduce stress—handle everything from home
- Lower cost—flat-fee services avoid surprise billing
- Privacy—fewer public hearings and less court involvement
- Control—you and your spouse decide the terms rather than a judge
Tips for a smooth remote divorce
- Be thorough and honest in your financial disclosures—omissions can delay approval.
- Make sure the Marital Settlement Agreement is clear, complete, and signed by both parties.
- Confirm service requirements in your county and keep proof of service or the signed receipt.
- Use an experienced, court-tested process or service to prepare and e-file documents to avoid common mistakes.
Ready to get started?
If you’re in San Diego and want to pursue an uncontested divorce without court appearances, start by exploring your options and getting professional help to prepare the paperwork correctly. At Divorce661 we offer flat-fee, 100% remote divorce services and a free consultation to see if your case qualifies.
Visit Divorce661.com to schedule your free consultation and learn how you can save time, reduce stress, and avoid the courtroom altogether.
Conclusion
An uncontested divorce in San Diego can be efficient, affordable, and entirely remote when both parties cooperate and the paperwork is done right. Follow the steps—e-file the petition, serve the spouse, complete financial disclosures, sign a Marital Settlement Agreement, and e-file the judgment—and you can finalize your divorce without ever stepping into a courtroom.
