File for Divorce in California by County
California is a no-fault divorce state, meaning you don't need to prove wrongdoing to end your marriage. To file, at least one spouse must have lived in California for at least 6 months and in the filing county for at least 3 months. The court filing fee is $435 statewide — the same in every county. Fee waivers are available if you qualify.
Every divorce in California has a mandatory 6-month waiting period from the date your spouse is served before the divorce can be finalized. During this time, you'll exchange financial disclosures and work toward a settlement agreement. If both spouses agree on all terms, the process is called an uncontested divorce — which is faster, less expensive, and doesn't require court appearances.
Each county has its own Superior Court with specific procedures, processing times, and e-filing options. Select your county below to see local court information, filing instructions, and tips specific to your courthouse.
How MutualFile Helps
MutualFile guides you through your California divorce from start to finish. Answer a guided interview, and we generate all required court forms — including the Petition (FL-100), Summons (FL-110), financial disclosures, and Judgment (FL-180). We review your paperwork for errors and give you court-ready documents plus step-by-step instructions for filing them with your county's Superior Court. Starting at $199.
California's new Joint Petition (SB 1427) lets both spouses file as equals — no process server, no “petitioner vs. respondent.” Learn how it works.
Select Your County
Choose your county to see local court details, e-filing options, and filing tips.
Southern California
Bay Area
Central Valley
Inland Empire
Central Coast
Northern California
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to file for divorce in California?
California courts generally charge approximately $435 to $450 for each spouse's first appearance — one fee for the Petition and one for the Response. The base fee is set statewide, but some courts add local surcharges, so confirm the current amount with your county court. Fee waivers are available if you cannot afford the fee. MutualFile's document preparation service starts at $199, and you file the completed paperwork with the court yourself.
How long does a divorce take in California?
California has a mandatory 6-month waiting period. In a traditional divorce it runs from the date your spouse is served; in a joint petition (SB 1427) it runs from the date you file. This is the legal minimum — no divorce can be finalized sooner. The total timeline depends on how quickly you complete paperwork, exchange disclosures, and reach an agreement. An uncontested divorce with complete paperwork can be finalized shortly after the 6-month mark.
Do I need a lawyer to file for divorce in California?
No. You are not required to have a lawyer for a divorce in California. Many people successfully file on their own or with a document preparation service like MutualFile. If your case involves complex assets, custody disputes, or domestic violence, consulting an attorney is recommended.
Can I file for divorce online in California?
You can complete the entire preparation process online. Many California counties also accept e-filing for family law cases, while others require filing in person or by mail. MutualFile prepares your court-ready forms online and gives you step-by-step instructions for submitting them to your county's Superior Court. Filing options can vary by county and document type — select your county above for specific details.
Start Your California Divorce Online
MutualFile guides you through every step — from interview to court-ready documents and filing instructions for your county's Superior Court.
Start your case for freeThis page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Court procedures, fees, and processing times may change. Visit your county's Superior Court website for the most current information. If you have questions about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney.