Lancaster Divorce Attorney

What Are The Residency Requirements for a California Divorce?

California Family Code § 2320 outlines the residency requirements for a couple who wishes to get a divorce in the state. Exceptions to this rule exist for marriages being annulled, legal separation, and those in a same-sex civil union or domestic partnership. 

The Residency Requirements Are as Follows:

• One spouse must have resided in the state for a minimum of six months.
• That spouse must have resided in the county where the divorce is filed for at least three months.

While the Defense of Marriage act has been overturned, allowing for same-sex marriage and divorce in any state, couples who opted for a civil union or domestic partnership arrangement before the historic ruling can still run into legal issues when separating. Those in a same-sex non-marriage partnership must have entered into their formal relationship in California in order to apply for divorce. In some cases, if a same-sex couple’s current state of residency refuses to grant the divorce, then California may grant it instead.

How to Get a Quick Divorce in California

Most people want to get over their divorce as quickly as possible. Here's a guide to help streamline your divorce:

1. Choose the Right Grounds 
   • If you are able to, select "irreconcilable differences" as the grounds, is widely accepted and accelerates the process of divorce in CA.
2. Meet Residency Requirements 
   • To file for divorce in California, either you or your spouse must have lived in the state for at least six months, and in the county where you plan to file for at least three months.
3. Simplify Procedures by Negotiating Cooperatively 
   • If you and your spouse agree on major issues such as: property division, child custody, and support, consider using simplified procedures like summary dissolution or uncontested divorce. These processes can save time and reduce complexity.
4. Prepare and File Legal Forms 
   • Obtain the required divorce forms from the California Courts website. Your divorce attorney from The Jimenez Law Group, APC can also assist you in completing all of the required forms on time. Fill out the forms accurately, providing all necessary information and signatures.
5. Serve the Papers 
   • Serve the divorce papers to your spouse following the legal requirements. This can be completed in the following ways: 
     • By mail
     • Using a process server
     • Having your spouse sign a form acknowledging receipt
6. Exchange Financial Disclosures 
   • Both parties must exchange complete financial disclosures, including income, assets, and debts. Failure to disclose may result in delays or legal consequences.
7. Attend Court Hearings 
   • If your divorce is uncontested, you may be able to skip court hearings. However, if any issues remain unresolved, attend the hearings to present your case before a judge.
8. Finalize the Divorce 
   • Once all issues are resolved, obtain a judgment from the court finalizing your divorce. This typically takes at least six months from the date your spouse was served.

While following these steps can help expedite the divorce process in California, it's advisable to consult with an experienced Lancaster divorce attorney from The Jimenez Law Group to ensure compliance with all legal requirements and to receive personalized guidance throughout the proceedings.

How Long Does a Divorce Take in California?

It takes at least six months to get a divorce in California. The average timeline for a no-fault divorce is about 15 months. The timeframe for a fault divorce varies depending on the case's complexity. It can be anywhere between 6 months and several years. 

Additionally, if the divorce is contested, specific matters can’t be agreed upon, or more complex issues must be handled, the divorce proceedings can take longer. That’s why it’s best to consult an experienced and professional divorce lawyer in Lancaster, CA, who can answer any questions.

How Much Is a Divorce in California?

The cost of divorce in California will really depend on the complexity of the case and whether it is contested or not. Typically, the longer the divorce proceedings, the higher the cost.

Factors That Can Influence the Cost:

• If the couple have children which will result in a child custody agreement needing to be made
• If the couple has a complex estate or high-net asset worth which could complicate the property division process
• If the couple has to go to court for litigation of their divorce, instead of through mediation or a collaborative divorce
• If the couple disagrees in matters pertaining to spousal support

Providing Experienced & Compassionate Legal Representation for Your Divorce

Our law firm offers family-oriented legal services, meaning that we do everything in our power to keep your best interests and the best interests of any children involved at the forefront of the case. Contact us if you are in need of a divorce lawyer in Lancaster, CA. We are focused on providing our clients with thoughtful divorce representation and have helped hundreds of clients reach solutions.

Contact The Jimenez Law Group, APC today to schedule a consultation with our divorce attorney in Lancaster, CA.