How long does it take to get divorced in California?
First Steps The first time frame is dependent upon both parties. The party wishing to dissolve the marriage must petition with family law. The respondent has 30 days to respond to the petition. One party will then typically file for an Order to Show Cause hearing, at which point a judge will issue custody of minors, a restraining order if necessary, and take care of any other issues. This process can take up to 60 days. Discovery Process The discovery process requires both parties to divulge information about all of their belongings, their expenses and their incomes. Both parties then undergo depositions and written testimonies for divorce court purposes. The amount of time will vary based on the complexity of earnings and other estate issues. Marital Settlement Agreement or Court If a settlement agreement can be made after the discovery process, the two sides can sign the Marital Settlement Agreement and then sign the Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage papers to end the marriage. If
