Check your local divorce laws and residency requirements
Gather required documents such as marriage certificate, identification, and financial records
Decide whether the divorce will be contested or uncontested
Complete the divorce petition or application form
File the petition with the appropriate court
Pay the required filing fee or request a fee waiver
Serve the divorce papers to your spouse according to legal rules
Wait for your spouse to respond within the required time
Disclose financial information if required by the court
Negotiate or attend mediation if necessary
Attend court hearings if required
Finalize the divorce agreement or court order
Obtain the final divorce decree from the court