Divorce often comes with financial and emotional consequences for couples. Understanding how long a divorce takes in California is a key first step to proceeding with your own divorce case. You should then hire an experienced divorce lawyer to explain your legal rights and options under California law, so you can take on your divorce with confidence.
Hire a Divorce Lawyer From Hoffer Family Law Firm
Even though divorce is a legal process, it involves a deeply personal transition for those involved. When facing divorce, you need a lawyer you can trust. Founded by attorney Jeffrey Hoffer, Hoffer Family Law Firm has been a leading family law firm in California for years. However, recognition is not a guarantee of future results. Selection criteria vary by organization.
His goal is to provide his clients with the legal knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their cases. Hoffer was named as one of the Ten Most Dependable Family Law Attorneys of the West by GoldLine Research, a distinction that reflects the trust his clients place in him. We are prepared to pursue every avenue in your unique case based on your specific needs and desires for the outcome.
California Divorce Laws
In 2024, 9% to 12% of residents in the United States were divorced, around 35,711,653 people. Comparatively, 7% to 10% of residents in California that year were divorced, around 3,351,657 people. While divorce can be intimidating, the process was designed to be accessible. To start your divorce, either you or your spouse must have lived:
- In California for at least six months
- In the county you’re filing in, for at least three months
Once you’ve consulted with Hoffer, you can then file your divorce and serve your spouse with the divorce papers. You can then work with your spouse and their lawyer to resolve your divorce issues. This can include:
- How to divide property
- The topic of spousal support payments
- Child custody and child support, if applicable
During your case, it’s vital to stay as calm and cooperative as possible. Depending on your financial situation, your emotional relationship with your spouse, and how prepared you are to compromise, the timeline of divorce can vary broadly.
Factors That Affect the Timeline of a California Divorce Case
Certain couples in California may qualify for summary dissolution, which is a quicker and cheaper divorce option. However, to get this type of divorce, you must not have:
- Children together or be pregnant at the time of divorce
- Real estate together
- Under $4,000 in debt, excluding auto loans
- Been married for five years or more
- More than $25,000 in community property
- More than $25,000 each in separate property
Additionally, you both must agree:
- About how to resolve your divorce issues
- To waive alimony
- To waive appeals
If you qualify, your divorce can be finalized within six months. However, if you can’t agree or don’t qualify, the process can take much longer to complete.
If you can’t cooperate or have a complex estate, or you work with an insufficient lawyer, your case may extend unnecessarily. Intense emotions between spouses are often the main factor behind a lengthy divorce process. It’s recommended that you secure help from an experienced attorney to make your case go as quickly and efficiently as possible. They can advocate on your behalf and help you avoid unnecessary arguments or combative behavior.
To understand the full process of divorcing in California, Hoffer offers his clients free access to his book, titled Ending Your Marriage in California: A Guide for Divorcing Wisely, available for order through our website.
FAQs
Q: What Is Mediation in a California Divorce?
A: In a California divorce, mediation is an alternative couple can choose before going through traditional court. During mediation sessions, a neutral mediator helps both parties communicate to resolve their divorce issues.
However, only the couple has control over the outcome. This means that if you can successfully negotiate during mediation with the help of your lawyer, you can retain money and assets you might have lost during a judge’s official ruling. Mediation can also save you time and money.
Q: What Happens if My Spouse and I Can’t Agree in Divorce Mediation?
A: If you and your spouse can’t agree in divorce mediation, the case then proceeds to court, where a judge has the final say. This can jeopardize the outcome of your case and potentially leave you with less than you desired. Acting calmly and politely during mediation can help encourage your spouse to cooperate as well, letting your legal counsel do the negotiating on your behalf. Resolving your divorce issues through mediation is favorable for many couples.
Q: Does a Prenuptial Agreement or Postnuptial Agreement Speed up the Divorce Process in California?
A: A prenuptial agreement or postnuptial agreement can help speed up the divorce process in California, depending on a few factors. Commonly called prenups and postnups, these legal documents outline the responsibilities and assets a couple has and are often followed during divorce to decide on topics like spousal support and the division of assets.
If the judge finds that the agreement is fair to both spouses and wasn’t signed involuntarily, they may follow it, and the divorce can finish quickly.
Q: How Can a Divorce Lawyer Help Me During My Divorce Case?
A: A divorce lawyer can help you during your divorce case by offering legal protection. They can listen to your situation, help create a custom strategy for your needs, file your case within the proper deadline, and represent you during legal proceedings. Having an attorney is a necessary layer of protection, no matter how amicable your divorce may be. Your spouse likely has their own legal counsel protecting them, and without an attorney, your rights may be violated.
Learn Your Rights From a California Divorce Attorney
The length of time a divorce can take depends on what you want out of your divorce. No matter your goals for your case,reach out to Hoffer Family Law Firm today to schedule a confidential consultation with Hoffer. We represent clients living in Los Angeles County, including Simi Valley and Calabasas, as well as Ventura County and throughout California.
