Filing for divorce in California involves several steps and requires specific documents to ensure the process is legally compliant. At Law Offices of David C. Beavans, we assist the San Diego public with personalized legal guidance to navigate the complexities of divorce and achieve a fair resolution.



Key Documents Needed to File for Divorce in California

• Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (Form FL-100)
• This is the primary document that officially begins the divorce process. It outlines basic information about the marriage, including property, custody, and support requests.
• Summons (Form FL-110)
• This notifies your spouse (the respondent) that you have filed for divorce and provides essential information, including legal restrictions and the timeline to respond.
• Property Declaration (Form FL-160)
• If you have significant assets or debts, you may need to file this form to declare and describe the property and obligations to be divided.
• Declaration Under Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) (Form FL-105)
• If you have minor children, this document is required to provide information about the children’s residence history and any pending custody cases.
• Income and Expense Declaration (Form FL-150)
• This form details your financial situation, including income, expenses, and debts. It’s critical for determining spousal support, child support, and other financial matters.
• Proof of Service of Summons (Form FL-115)
• This form confirms that your spouse has been formally served with the divorce papers, as required by California law.
• Parenting Plan (if applicable)
• A document outlining proposed custody and visitation arrangements for minor children.
• Fee Waiver Request (Form FW-001) (if applicable)
• If you cannot afford the court filing fees, you can request a fee waiver with this form.

Additional Considerations

• Residency Requirement: At least one spouse must have lived in California for six months and in the county where the divorce is filed for three months.
• Community Property State: California’s laws require equitable division of assets and debts acquired during the marriage.

How Law Offices of David C. Beavans Can Help

Filing for divorce can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Law Offices of David C. Beavans, we provide experienced legal support to San Diego residents, ensuring all necessary documents are prepared accurately and submitted on time. Whether you’re facing a straightforward or complex divorce, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today for a consultation and let us help you move forward with confidence and peace of mind.