Some things shouldn't be as hard as they are.
We built MutualFile because the divorce process is broken — and it doesn't have to be.
The problem no one talks about
In California, nearly 70% of divorces are uncontested. Two people who agree it's over, agree on the terms, and just need a way through the paperwork.
And yet the default path is still two lawyers, two billable-hour clocks, and a process designed for conflict — even when there isn't any.
We built MutualFile for the couples who don't need a courtroom battle. Who are choosing to do this respectfully, together. Who just need a calm, clear, guided way to get it done — without the $10,000 bill.
Christian Aeschlimann
Founder of MutualFile
I'm a software engineer with more than 20 years of experience building reliable digital systems where accuracy and clarity are essential.
When I went through the divorce process myself, I quickly realized how complicated and overwhelming the paperwork and procedures could be. Even when both spouses want to cooperate, the system can be difficult to navigate and often pushes people toward legal costs that can easily reach thousands of dollars.
I believed there had to be a simpler way.
That experience led me to create MutualFile — a platform designed to help couples organize their divorce paperwork, collaborate when possible, and move through the process step by step at their own pace.
My focus is to continue improving MutualFile so it becomes the most clear, reliable, and helpful platform for people going through divorce.
What we believe
Guidance over advocacy
You don't always need a fighter. Usually, you just need a map. MutualFile is designed to be that map — clear steps, no dead ends, no surprises around the corner.
Precision over scale
We focus exclusively on California so we can be right, not just present. Rather than building a generic tool that half-works in 50 states, we built one that works properly in California — the right forms, the right sequence, the right filing requirements for your specific county.
No surprises, ever
No hidden fees. No “gotcha” upgrades. No fine print that changes what you thought you were getting. You'll see the full cost before you pay anything.
Calm by design
The experience is intentionally unhurried. No urgency tactics, no alarm, no language designed to make you feel like you're running out of time. This is already hard enough.
We'll tell you when you need a lawyer
MutualFile is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice — and we're upfront about that from the start.
If your situation involves domestic violence, a spouse you can't locate, or genuinely contested assets, we'll tell you directly that you need qualified legal counsel.
“We'd rather lose a customer than put someone in the wrong process.”
And if you start with MutualFile and later realize you need an attorney for a specific question or final sign-off, that's okay too. Everything you've organized in MutualFile comes with you — your timeline, your documents, your disclosures — so your attorney's billable hours go toward actual legal judgment, not paperwork catch-up.
A few things worth knowing
- California-specific by choice. Every form, every step, every county filing requirement is built around California courts. Not adapted — built.
- Your data stays yours. 256-bit encryption, private by default. We don't sell your data and never will.
- Built on official California Judicial Council forms. The documents MutualFile generates use the same standardized forms used by every family law attorney in the state — the ones California courts actually expect to see.
- No credit card to start. Begin your case, complete your interview, and see exactly what you're working with — before you pay anything.
Ready to see if MutualFile is right for you?
Start your case in minutes. No credit card required.