--- title: "California’s New Joint Petition: What It Is & Benefits" description: "California's new Joint Petition lets both spouses file divorce together — no process server, no adversarial labels, no unnecessary steps. Here's what it is, how it compares, and whether it's right for you." url: https://thecompletedivorce.com/californias-new-joint-petition-divorce/ date: 2026-05-25 modified: 2026-06-03 author: "Dina Haddad" image: https://thecompletedivorce.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/What-is-the-New-California-Joint-Petition.webp categories: ["Uncontested divorce"] type: post lang: en --- # California’s New Joint Petition: What It Is & Benefits Contents - [ What is Joint Petition? ](#What%20is%20Joint%20Petition?) - [ Joint Petition vs Traditional Filing ](#Joint%20Petition%20vs%20Traditional%20Filing) - [ Benefits of Joint Petition ](#Benefits%20of%20Joint%20Petition) - [ Simplfiy Your Joint Petition with Us ](#Simplfiy%20Your%20Joint%20Petition%20with%20Us) - [ FAQ ](#FAQ) Online Divorce Divorce smartly without a lawyer. Save yourself $10,000+. [ Start My Divorce ](https://buy.stripe.com/bJe8wO4Inbryg8y2Ar3ZK01) - 100% Legit Divorce Program # California’s New Joint Petition The Faster Way to File for Divorce Dina Haddad Founder & Attorney Mediator [ Facebook ](https://www.facebook.com/thecompletedivorce/) [ Linkedin ](https://www.linkedin.com/in/dinahaddad/) [ X-twitter ](https://twitter.com/MediatorDina) [ Youtube ](https://www.youtube.com/@divorcewithdina) [ Tiktok ](https://www.tiktok.com/@divorcewithdina) I’m Dina Haddad, a family law attorney-mediator in California. I’m so tired of couples not having a process that’s easy to complete their divorce. They are getting lost, wasting time and money, and beyond frustrated with their results.That’s why I created [The Complete Divorce](https://thecompletedivorce.com/). I took my successful mediation practice and condensed it into an affordable and winning program. ![](https://thecompletedivorce.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Dina-Haddad-1.webp) [ View Profile ](https://thecompletedivorce.com/about-us/) [The Joint Petition for Divorce](https://thecompletedivorce.com/fl-700-joint-petition-california/) in California allows you to submit a divorce petition together rather than filing separately as adversaries. It is best suited for divorcing parties who are amicable and are certain they will be an [uncontested case](https://thecompletedivorce.com/steps-to-uncontested-divorce-california-without-lawyer/).   This new method removes the service requirement for the [Petition (FL-100)](https://thecompletedivorce.com/fl-100-petition-divorce-online-california/) and [Response (FL-120)](https://thecompletedivorce.com/fl-120-how-to-complete-the-response-forms-for-a-ca-divorce/). However, both parties still have to pay their filing fee. If you and your spouse are certain you will resolve all your divorce issues, then the joint petition would be available to you.   [The Complete Divorce](https://thecompletedivorce.com/) offers cooperative filing support through a variety of online, completely self-guided, filing platforms, including completion of the Joint Petition or Petition of Dissolution of Marriage.   Our program is best for uncontested divorcing couples pursuing mutual divorce. Led by divorce expert, Dina Haddad, the program empowers people of all socio-economic backgrounds to divorce smartly and without a lawyer. [Subscribe and start your divorce](https://thecompletedivorce.com/pricing/). Modernizing California Divorce Complete your divorce without a lawyer. Move forward with peace of mind and avoid court rejections through our fully-assisted DIY divorce program. This program is founded and led by California divorce expert, Dina. - Court-approved forms - Divorce Portal - Expert Webinars - 24/7/365 Support - The MSA - Parenting Plan $49.99/mo No hidden fee. Cancel anytime. [ Start Divorce ](https://buy.stripe.com/bJe8wO4Inbryg8y2Ar3ZK01) ![](https://thecompletedivorce.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/google-icon.png)⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 2000+ California couples divorced. ## What Is a Joint Petition for Divorce in California? ![What is the New Joint Petition in California](https://thecompletedivorce.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/What-is-the-New-California-Joint-Petition.webp) Beginning a California divorce with a joint petition is an alternative, non-aggressive process. Rather than one person filing against another, both persons file together and agree that they will not require court intervention to resolve their divorce. In a joint petition using [form FL-700](https://thecompletedivorce.com/fl-700-joint-petition-california/), both parties sign and file at the same time.  A “deemed service” rule applies to this process which means that there is no requirement for a process server. Service of your documents is complete when the court accepts your filing.  Additionally, since you are both filing simultaneously, there will be no need for a Response (form FL-120) which reduces steps, paperwork, and stress. ## Joint Petition vs. Traditional Divorce Filing: Which One is Right for You? Your choice between a joint divorce petition in California and using the traditional Petition, FL-100, depends on your specific circumstances.  The Joint Petition option is ideal when both spouses will agree upon all property issues, child custody arrangements, spousal support obligations and wish to maintain their privacy through a cooperative process. You will want a great deal of certainty that you will be able to do so. The traditional divorce option is best suited for couples that have some uncertainty or want to minimise the additional work should the parties be unable to resolve all their issues.  For certain, parties that will be filing for relief from the court (such as a Request for Order for Temporary Spousal Support) will not be able to use the Joint Petition.  Parties with safety concerns related to domestic violence, or where either party requires immediate court-ordered support or a protective order, also would not qualify.  If you are unsure, consider filing the traditional method. Learn more about [traditional contested vs uncontested divorce](https://thecompletedivorce.com/contested-vs-uncontested-divorce-california/). The court filing fees are the same. The additional forms are insignificant compared to the work required to revoke a Joint Petition and file an amended Petition and Response. In our [“do-it-yourself” divorce](https://thecompletedivorce.com/how-to-file-for-divorce-in-california-by-yourself-2026-guide/), we provide you all the [necessary divorce forms](https://thecompletedivorce.com/california-divorce-forms/) and steps to keep it easy to do either method. If the parties’ ability to cooperate deteriorates during this time and they filed using a Joint Petition, they may convert their proceedings into a regular divorce proceeding by filing a Notice of Revocation (FL-715) which allows the matter to continue as a standard divorce proceeding. The parties will then need to file an amended Petition and Response and serve those on each other. ## What Are the Real Benefits of Filing a Joint Petition in California? ![4 Real Benefits of filing together in California](https://thecompletedivorce.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Real-Benefits-of-Filing-Together-in-California.webp) When you jointly file for divorce in California, you are able to reduce steps, [lower your divorce cost ](https://thecompletedivorce.com/divorce-costs-in-california/)to obtain a divorce, and support each other through the divorce process.  It will also provide you with the same level of legal protection and options as if you were filing separately. The following are the benefits of joint petition explained for [successful divorce](https://thecompletedivorce.com/ten-keys-to-successful-divorce). ### 1. It frees you from service fee or third party involvement When you jointly file for a divorce in California, you do not have to hire a Process Server to serve your spouse with the divorce papers.  Once the Court has accepted your Joint Petition For Dissolution Of Marriage (Divorce), service is deemed complete. This can save you money by avoiding additional costs.  It also makes the initial portion of your divorce case much easier. However, many courts also allow you to file the Petition and Response together or within a day of each other, without having a formal service. ### 2. It gives equal legal standing (petitioner 1 & 2) Both parties are treated equally (i.e., neither party acts as “Petitioner” nor “Respondent”), which eliminates the idea that one spouse has filed suit against the other.  It also encourages continued cooperation and maintains a more cooperative and equitable relationship from the beginning of the divorce process.  On the flip side, it is understood in family law that Petitioner and Respondent mean Party 1 and Party 2, and there is no plaintiff and defendant. ### 3. Immediate protection (ATROs) Once you both file for divorce, the California Courts automatically enter an automatic temporary restraining order (ATRO) against each of you.  The ATRO protects assets, insurance policies, and, when applicable, child-related arrangements. It also prohibits either party from making significant financial or legal decisions until the case is resolved.  In contrast, those filing a Joint Petition typically are not concerned about ATRO violations so this has little value. ### 4. No family or asset limits While summary dissolution is reserved for very specific situations, this alternative allows for filing jointly regardless of your having children, shared assets, or other complex financial arrangements, provided that you and your spouse are in agreement. It is a more inclusive and accessible alternative.  Again, this comparison is very limiting since a case with a Joint Petition and a traditional petition have the same required steps to move through their divorce after these initial filings. ## Simplifying California Joint Petition for Smarter Divorce Is it possible to get divorced in California as a couple? Yes. Joint Petition for Divorce California is one of the options for couples that wish to dissolve their marriages through cooperation. By filing jointly, a couple can avoid conflict and simplify the divorce process.  If you’re ready to proceed with your divorce, [The Complete Divorce](https://thecompletedivorce.com/complete-online-divorce-in-california/) has all the necessary resources and step-by-step guides to assist you in completing your joint divorce petition. Our program is meant for ease and smarter outside the court divorce solutions. [Subscribe today and start your mutual divorce](https://thecompletedivorce.com/pricing/). ## FAQ — California’s New Joint Petition Q. Does the 6-month waiting period still apply? Yes. Regardless of how or when you choose to file for a joint petition for divorce in California, state law mandates that there is at least a 6-month waiting period prior to being able to finalize your divorce. Q. Can I change a Joint Petition to a regular divorce? Yes. If you find that you cannot reach an agreement with your spouse after filing a joint petition, you may revoke your joint petition by completing the Notice of Revocation (California Courts FL-715) and continuing your divorce action as a regular divorce proceeding. Q. Is a Joint Petition as valid as a regular divorce? Yes. After the judge signs your final judgment, this document carries the exact same weight as any other divorce order issued through the courts of California. California premier divorce program. Making California divorce simple and lawyer-free. - Filing & Review Support - 1-on-1 Divorce Meeting - Child support calculations - MSA Filing Support ![](https://thecompletedivorce.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/google-icon.png)⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 2000+ divorced without a lawyer.  [ Start Divorce ](https://buy.stripe.com/bJe8wO4Inbryg8y2Ar3ZK01) You may also be interested in [![Divorce mediation in California](https://thecompletedivorce.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/What-is-Divorce-Mediation.jpg)](https://thecompletedivorce.com/divorce-mediation-in-a-california/) [ What is Divorce Mediation in a California? ](https://thecompletedivorce.com/divorce-mediation-in-a-california/) In mediation, you and your spouse work with a mediator [ Read more » ](https://thecompletedivorce.com/divorce-mediation-in-a-california/) Dina Haddad March 16, 2023 [![Separate Property in a California Divorce - Property Division](https://thecompletedivorce.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/dividing-separate-property-in-a-CA-divorce.jpg)](https://thecompletedivorce.com/how-to-prove-your-separate-property-in-a-california-divorce/) [ Unveiling the Secrets: How to Prove Your Separate Property in a California Divorce ](https://thecompletedivorce.com/how-to-prove-your-separate-property-in-a-california-divorce/) Community and Separate Property in a California divorce can pose [ Read more » ](https://thecompletedivorce.com/how-to-prove-your-separate-property-in-a-california-divorce/) Dina Haddad March 15, 2023 [![Uncontested Vs Contested Divorce](https://thecompletedivorce.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Uncontested-Vs-Contested-Divorce.webp)](https://thecompletedivorce.com/contested-vs-uncontested-divorce-california/) [ Uncontested vs Contested Divorce: Which one is Right in 2026? ](https://thecompletedivorce.com/contested-vs-uncontested-divorce-california/) Learn the difference between uncontested and contested divorce in California, [ Read more » ](https://thecompletedivorce.com/contested-vs-uncontested-divorce-california/) Dina Haddad May 18, 2026 « Previous Page1 [Page2](https://thecompletedivorce.com/californias-new-joint-petition-divorce.md/page/2/) [Page3](https://thecompletedivorce.com/californias-new-joint-petition-divorce.md/page/3/) [Page4](https://thecompletedivorce.com/californias-new-joint-petition-divorce.md/page/4/) [Page5](https://thecompletedivorce.com/californias-new-joint-petition-divorce.md/page/5/) [Next »](https://thecompletedivorce.com/californias-new-joint-petition-divorce.md/page/2/)