How to file for divorce: a U.S. preparation checklist
A practical sequence for checking eligibility, choosing the correct court, preparing papers, serving your spouse, meeting disclosure duties, and obtaining a final judgment.
Overview
A practical sequence for checking eligibility, choosing the correct court, preparing papers, serving your spouse, meeting disclosure duties, and obtaining a final judgment.
What to review
- Confirm residency, legal grounds, venue, filing fees, fee-waiver rules, and any mandatory waiting period.
- Identify every required petition, summons, local form, and request for temporary orders before filing.
- Arrange legally valid service; you generally cannot serve the papers yourself, and proof of service must be filed.
- Calendar response, disclosure, mediation, hearing, and case-management deadlines.
- Inventory children, income, property, debts, insurance, retirement accounts, taxes, and urgent safety concerns.
- Do not assume filing alone ends the marriage; obtain and retain the signed final judgment or decree.
What to do next
Begin with the official court self-help site for your state and the local court rules for your county. The California sources below illustrate a common sequence, but their forms and deadlines should not be reused in another state without verification.
Official sources and further reading
- Start a divorce case — California Courts Self-Help Guide
- Divorce forms — California Courts Self-Help Guide
- How to get a copy of a divorce decree or certificate — USAGov
This article provides general educational information and is not legal advice. Rules and outcomes depend on your facts and jurisdiction. Consult a qualified local professional before acting.
Jurisdiction
United States overview; family law, forms, deadlines, and outcomes vary by state and county
Review status
Editorially reviewed by the LegalGPT Editorial Team. Not independently reviewed by a licensed attorney.