Divorce Petition in California
Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: April 2026
California Requirements
- At least one spouse must have been a California resident for 6 months and county resident for 3 months
- Petition (FL-100) and Summons (FL-110) must be served on the other spouse
- Community property is divided equally unless parties agree otherwise
- Six-month waiting period from date of service before divorce is final
- Financial disclosure declarations (FL-150) required from both parties
Filing Location
Superior Court (Family Law Division)
Filing Fee
$435–$450
Statute Reference
How to Complete This Form
- 1Confirm that you meet your state's residency requirements for filing.
- 2Gather financial records, including income statements, bank accounts, debts, and property valuations.
- 3Obtain the appropriate divorce petition forms from your court or court website.
- 4Complete the petition, including grounds for divorce, proposed property division, and custody arrangements (if applicable).
- 5File the petition with the court clerk and pay the filing fee.
- 6Serve the petition on your spouse according to your state's service requirements.
- 7Attend any required hearings, mediation sessions, or settlement conferences.
Download Form Template
Download a template for the Divorce Petition customized with California-specific requirements and instructions.
Divorce Petition in Other States
Other Forms in California
When to Talk to a Lawyer
- Your divorce involves significant assets, a business, retirement accounts, or disputes over child custody.
- There is a history of domestic violence, hidden assets, or your spouse has hired an attorney.
This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.