Meet California residency requirements: at least one spouse must have lived in California for 6 months and in the filing county for 3 months
Choose the correct case type: divorce, legal separation, or annulment
Complete the required forms, usually including Petition, Summons, and UCCJEA if there are minor children
File the forms with the superior court in the county where you or your spouse live
Pay the filing fee or request a fee waiver if eligible
Serve the filed papers on your spouse using a proper adult who is not you
File proof of service with the court
Wait at least 6 months from the date your spouse was served before the divorce can be finalized
Exchange financial disclosures with your spouse
Negotiate or litigate issues such as property, debts, child custody, child support, and spousal support
Reach a settlement agreement or attend court hearings if there are disputes
Submit final judgment forms and any required agreements to the court
Attend the final hearing if the court requires one
Receive the signed judgment and become legally divorced after the waiting period and court approval