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The Curious Bag
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California provides only "no-fault" divorces, which are granted on the grounds of irreconcilable differences. Three processes are available, depending on the circumstances: summary dissolution, uncontested divorce and contested divorce.
Summary Dissolution
Partners who meet the requirements, including being together for less than five years, having no children together and owning no property together, may file a joint petition for summary dissolution. This option does not require a court appearance.
Uncontested Divorce
When spouses or domestic partners agree on the division of assets and custody issues, they may file for an uncontested divorce that requires only minimal contact with the court.
Contested Divorce
When the partners are not able to agree on the terms of their divorce, the case is considered contested. In a contested divorce, the judge assists the couple in resolving their disputes.
Timeframe
The party that files must be a California resident for at least six months or 180 days and a resident of the county of filing for at least three months. The divorce is not final until six months after the conclusion of the case.
Effects
Divorce ends the marriage or domestic partnership. The parties are considered single and may remarry or enter a new partnership.
Source:
Nolo Legal Encyclopedia, "Divorce in California"
California Courts Self-Help Center
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