Question 1

What is MutualFile?

Accepted Answer

MutualFile is an online platform that helps you prepare and file divorce documents in California. We guide you through a simple interview, generate your court forms, and e-file them directly with the court.

Question 2

Is MutualFile a law firm?

Accepted Answer

No. MutualFile is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. We are a technology platform that helps you prepare documents. If you need legal advice, you should consult a licensed attorney.

Question 3

Who is MutualFile for?

Accepted Answer

MutualFile is designed for couples seeking an uncontested divorce in California. This means both spouses generally agree on the terms of the divorce, including property division, custody, and support.

Question 4

What if my divorce is contested?

Accepted Answer

If you and your spouse cannot agree on the terms of your divorce, MutualFile may not be the right fit. We recommend consulting a licensed attorney for contested divorces, complex asset situations, or cases involving safety concerns.

Question 5

How is MutualFile different from other online divorce services?

Accepted Answer

MutualFile e-files your documents directly with the court — no printing, mailing, or courthouse trips. We also let both spouses collaborate on the same case, and our AI-assisted review checks your forms for errors before filing.

Question 6

Can I use MutualFile if I have children?

Accepted Answer

Yes. MutualFile supports cases involving minor children. The guided interview will ask about custody, visitation, and child support so the correct forms are prepared for your situation.

Question 7

How long does the interview take?

Accepted Answer

The AI-guided interview typically takes about 15 minutes. You can save your progress and come back anytime — you don't need to complete it in one sitting.

Question 8

What information do I need to get started?

Accepted Answer

You'll need basic personal information (names, dates of birth), your marriage date, date of separation, information about any minor children, and a general overview of your income, assets, and debts.

Question 9

What documents does MutualFile generate?

Accepted Answer

MutualFile generates the court-approved forms required for your California divorce filing. The specific forms depend on your situation, including whether you have children, property, or support arrangements.

Question 10

Can I review my documents before filing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You always review and approve all documents before anything is filed with the court. If something needs to be changed, you can go back and update your answers.

Question 11

What happens after I complete the interview?

Accepted Answer

After you finish the interview, MutualFile generates your court forms and runs an AI-assisted review. You'll review everything in your document hub, and when you're ready, we e-file directly with the court.

Question 12

Can I save my progress and come back later?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Your progress is saved automatically. You can close the browser and pick up right where you left off whenever you're ready.

Question 13

What if I make a mistake on my forms?

Accepted Answer

MutualFile includes an AI-assisted accuracy review that flags common errors before filing. If you spot something after filing, we can help you prepare amended forms.

Question 14

Can my spouse use MutualFile too?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can invite your spouse to collaborate on the same case. Each of you completes your own sections separately, and you can work through shared decisions together on the platform.

Question 15

What can my spouse see?

Accepted Answer

If you invite your spouse, they may see shared case information, including personal, financial, and divorce-related details. You are responsible for deciding what information to share.

Question 16

Does my spouse need to use MutualFile?

Accepted Answer

No. Spouse collaboration is optional. You can complete your filing without your spouse using the platform, though collaboration can make the process smoother for uncontested divorces.

Question 17

How does e-filing work?

Accepted Answer

Once you approve your documents, we submit them directly to the court through certified electronic filing systems. No printing, mailing, or courthouse visits required. You'll receive confirmation when your documents are accepted.

Question 18

Does MutualFile guarantee my divorce will be approved?

Accepted Answer

No. Courts have sole authority over acceptance and processing of divorce filings. MutualFile helps you prepare and submit documents, but we cannot guarantee court acceptance or approval.

Question 19

How long does the divorce process take?

Accepted Answer

California has a mandatory 6-month waiting period from the date the respondent is served. The total timeline depends on your county's court processing times and the complexity of your case. MutualFile does not control court timelines.

Question 20

What if the court rejects my filing?

Accepted Answer

If the court requires corrections, we'll notify you and help you understand what needs to be updated. You can make changes and refile through the platform.

Question 21

Which California counties does MutualFile support?

Accepted Answer

MutualFile supports e-filing in California counties that accept electronic filings. Coverage is expanding — start your case to see if your county is available.

Question 22

What is the California court filing fee?

Accepted Answer

The court filing fee in California is currently $435 for the petitioner and $435 for the respondent. Fee waivers may be available if you meet income requirements. These fees are paid directly to the court and are separate from MutualFile's service fees.

Question 23

What is the 6-month waiting period?

Accepted Answer

California law requires a minimum 6-month waiting period from the date the respondent is served before a divorce can be finalized. This is a state requirement that applies to all divorces, regardless of how they are filed.

Question 24

Are court filing fees included?

Accepted Answer

No. Court filing fees are separate and paid directly to the court. These fees vary by county. MutualFile's fee covers document preparation and e-filing service only.

Question 25

What is your refund policy?

Accepted Answer

Because MutualFile provides digital document preparation services, refunds are limited once work has begun. For full details, please see our Refund Policy page.

Question 26

How are payments processed?

Accepted Answer

All payments are securely processed by Stripe. MutualFile does not store your full credit card number or CVV.

Question 27

Why is MutualFile cheaper than a lawyer?

Accepted Answer

MutualFile uses technology to automate the document preparation process, which keeps costs low. A traditional divorce attorney may charge $3,000–$15,000 or more. MutualFile handles the paperwork and filing for a fraction of that cost.

Question 28

Are there any hidden fees?

Accepted Answer

No. MutualFile uses pay-as-you-go pricing — you only pay for the stage you're on. Court filing fees are separate and paid directly to the court. There are no surprise charges or subscriptions.

Question 29

Is my information secure?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All data is encrypted in transit (TLS) and at rest. We use industry-standard security measures including secure storage and access controls. For full details, see our Privacy Policy.

Question 30

Does MutualFile use AI?

Accepted Answer

Yes. MutualFile uses artificial intelligence to guide you through the interview process and assist with document preparation. AI-generated content may contain errors and must be reviewed by you before filing.

Question 31

Can I delete my data?

Accepted Answer

Yes. California residents have the right to request deletion of their personal information under the CCPA/CPRA. Visit our contact page to submit a deletion request.

Question 32

How does MutualFile protect my data?

Accepted Answer

All data is encrypted with 256-bit encryption in transit and at rest. We use secure cloud infrastructure, strict access controls, and regular security reviews. Your personal information is never sold to third parties.

Question 33

Is my data shared with my spouse?

Accepted Answer

Only if you choose to invite your spouse to collaborate. When you do, shared case information becomes visible to both parties. You control when and whether to invite your spouse.

Frequently Asked Questions

General

The Process

Spouse Collaboration

Filing & Court

Cost & Payments

Privacy & Security

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