The short answer
Starting a divorce and finishing one are separate steps. California has a minimum six-month waiting period, and a court must enter a judgment before your marriage ends.
An overview of the regular California divorce process. Joint petitions and summary dissolution have their own instructions.
Find your place in the process
- Start the case and arrange proper service of the papers. The other spouse has an opportunity to respond.
- Exchange the financial information required for your situation.
- Resolve property, support, and parenting issues by agreement or through court decisions.
- Submit the final paperwork and check the date on the court’s judgment.
If you received papers
Keep the complete set and note when you received it. The court’s response guide describes the usual 30-day response period and explains the possible consequences of not responding. Get help checking your deadline and options promptly.
Prepare for a conversation
- Bring any filed papers, current orders, and notices of hearing.
- Write down the issues you need help with and any dates coming up.
- Ask which process fits your circumstances and which step you should take next.
Official sources
Read the current instructions at the source. Requirements can change.
- California Courts: the divorce process
- California Courts: starting a divorce case
- California Courts: options after receiving divorce papers
Sources checked November 3, 2026. General information only; confirm current requirements with the official sources and get advice about your circumstances.