Create and File Forms for Divorce in California

Gather Information and Documents for Your Divorce Case

You’ll need to collect important information and documents to support your divorce (dissolution of marriage) filing. While your own statements are part of the evidence, having supporting records makes your case stronger and helps the court process your divorce smoothly.

Type 1: Marriage Certificate
You’ll need a copy of your marriage certificate to prove that a legal marriage exists and to start the divorce process.

Type 2: Property and Debt Information
List and collect documentation for all property you and your spouse own — such as real estate, vehicles, and valuable items — as well as any debts like loans or credit cards.

Type 3: Child-Related Information (if applicable)
If you have children together, include information about their living arrangements, expenses, and schooling. You may also need to provide records related to child support or custody arrangements.

Type 4: Communication Records
In some cases, printed or electronic messages (texts, emails) can help clarify agreements or timelines related to property, children, or separation.

Type 5: Court or Legal Documents
If there are any prior family law cases between you and your spouse — such as restraining orders or child custody filings — include copies of those documents.

Type 6: Personal Statement
You can also write a personal declaration explaining your situation, including details about your marriage, separation, and what you’re requesting from the court (for example, spousal support or custody).

Find out if you qualify to file for a divorce in California by taking a quick eligibility screening. You can start by entering your ZIP code in the Start box at the top of this page.

After completing the eligibility screening, this website will guide you through each step needed to create your divorce case documents.

For your understanding: To file for a divorce (dissolution of marriage) in California, you must complete and submit a set of official court forms. These forms include questions about your marriage, property, finances, and, if applicable, your children.

The most important form is called the Petition — Marriage/Domestic Partnership (Form FL-100), which officially starts your divorce case.

This website also lets you digitally sign and e-file your divorce forms directly with the court.

While other online resources may help you prepare court forms, they do not let you officially file them. To formally start your divorce case, you must submit your documents to the court clerk — a step known as filing. There are two ways to do this, and both have the same legal effect:

1. Online (E-filing)
2. In person at the courthouse

E-filing is more convenient since you can do it anytime. If you file after business hours, your filing date will be the next court day.

Divorce cases in California are filed with your county’s Superior Court. Once your filing is complete, the court will assign you a case number, officially starting your divorce case.

Attend a Hearing:
In a California divorce case, the court may schedule a hearing depending on the issues involved — such as child custody, support, or property division. During the hearing, both spouses (or their attorneys) can present evidence, financial documents, or testimony to support their requests.

If one spouse does not attend the hearing after being properly served with notice, the judge may proceed without them and issue orders based on the available information. In uncontested cases, the court may finalize the divorce without requiring a hearing at all.

After the Hearing:
Once the hearing is complete, the judge may issue a final judgment of divorce. You can obtain a certified paper copy of the judgment for your records — this document serves as official proof that your marriage has been legally dissolved.

The final judgment outlines important details such as property division, child custody, support, and any other court orders. Unlike protection orders, a divorce judgment does not expire; it remains valid permanently unless modified by the court.