--- title: "8 Things to Consider When Filing for a California Divorce" description: "Preparing for divorce can save time, money, and stress. Discover the 8 essential steps to take before filing for divorce in California, from gathering financial documents to choosing the right divorce process..." url: https://thecompletedivorce.com/what-to-do-before-filing-for-divorce-in-california/ date: 2026-06-01 modified: 2026-06-03 author: "Dina Haddad" image: https://thecompletedivorce.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/The-8-Things-to-Do-When-Getting-a-Divorce-in-Ca.webp categories: ["Uncontested divorce"] type: post lang: en --- # 8 Things to Consider When Filing for a California Divorce Contents - [ The 8 Things When Getting Divorce ](#The%208%20Things%20When%20Getting%20Divorce) - [ Take Control of Your Divorce ](#Take%20Control%20of%20Your%20Divorce) - [ 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 # Things to Consider When Getting Divorce (in California, U.S.) 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 process of getting a divorce is both an emotional and legal process, which is why preparation before filing for divorce matters. The right steps early on can reduce delays and [costs associated with your divorce](https://thecompletedivorce.com/divorce-costs-in-california/) as well as help minimize unnecessary conflict.  This guide serves as a practical checklist for preparing yourself and your spouse to go through the divorce process in California, US, in a more organized and controlled way. Expect to learn what you should know prior to filing for divorce, what documents and paperwork you need to gather, and how to prepare for the legal process productively leading to a [successful divorce](https://thecompletedivorce.com/ten-keys-to-successful-divorce).  For more than two decades, [The Complete Divorce](https://thecompletedivorce.com/) has served California with cheaper, more productive and amicable divorce options – letting parties take more control of their divorce. If you’ve prepared yourself, [subscribe and complete](https://thecompletedivorce.com/pricing/) your divorce without a hassle. 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. ## The 8 Things to Do When Getting a Divorce in California ![The 8 Things to do when getting a Divorce in California](https://thecompletedivorce.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/The-8-Things-to-Do-When-Getting-a-Divorce-in-Ca-1024x598.webp) This section works as a functional checklist of things you need to do prior to preparing for a divorce and minimizing potential areas of disagreement.  A lot of people see divorce as one of the most stressful events they have ever experienced. So, planning can make a significant difference. If you plan ahead, you will be able to better manage your expenses, avoid delays, and ultimately [conclude your marriage more peacefully](https://thecompletedivorce.com/how-to-end-a-marriage-in-california/). ### NOTE * These tips are the result of insight and guidance shared by Dina Haddad, the California Divorce Expert and the founder of The Complete Divorce Program.* ### 1. Deciding your divorce options Dina Haddad often says, “How you divorce matters,” because your choice will determine how much emotional distress, time and expense you experience during the process.  In California, there are three forms of divorce: 1. [**Uncontested Divorce**](https://thecompletedivorce.com/cheap-uncontested-divorce-in-california/)**:** Spouses agree on every term in the divorce.  2. [**Summary Dissolution**](https://thecompletedivorce.com/summary-dissolution-in-ca-divorce/)**:** Short-term marriages with few assets qualify for this simplified form of divorce.  3. **Contested Divorce:** When both spouses cannot reach an agreement on one or more terms in their divorce, a trial is required for a judge to decide. Learn more about [contested vs uncontested divorce](https://thecompletedivorce.com/contested-vs-uncontested-divorce-california/).  Understanding your [type of divorce](https://thecompletedivorce.com/types-of-divorce-california/) at the beginning allows you to be proactive about your divorce rather than reactive. ### 2. Get to know the process and paperwork The [divorce process](https://thecompletedivorce.com/how-to-file-for-divorce-in-california-by-yourself-2026-guide/) is often different based on the nature of your specific case. For instance, an uncontested divorce is generally less complicated than a contested case, which involves issues with child custody or other family law issues.  As a general rule in most California divorce cases, the divorce process will follow this typical format: - File Petition - Serve Divorce Papers - File Response - Complete Financial Disclosures - Prepare [Settlement Agreement](https://thecompletedivorce.com/california-marital-settlement-agreement-guide/) - Submit Final Judgment Knowing how this works as soon as possible will help prevent misunderstandings, errors in your [divorce forms](https://thecompletedivorce.com/california-divorce-forms/) or paperwork, and other problems. ### 3. Gather divorce documents Financial preparation is one of the most important steps in divorce. You need a realistic post-divorce budget and a clear understanding of your assets and debts. Gather all documents including: - Tax returns - Bank statements - Pay stubs - Real estate records - Retirement account statements - Credit card and loan balances. It will also be useful to review beneficiaries, separate important accounts where appropriate, and determine potential tax consequences before filing for divorce. ### 4. Divorce court and lawyer: Can you divorce without court proceedings and attorneys? Yes, many uncontested divorces in California are completed with limited court involvement, and you don’t have to hire a lawyer. This is why many couples explore [divorce without a lawyer](https://thecompletedivorce.com/divorce-without-a-lawyer-in-california/) or[ self-representation options](https://thecompletedivorce.com/self-representing-divorce-california-things-to-know/). The Complete Divorce was designed to help couples complete uncontested divorces more efficiently through guided support and reduced court involvement. This approach often works best for: - Amicable couples - Low-income California families - People who have been married for short periods ### 5. Ensure self-care when navigating divorce Divorce represents an ending to a relationship, with many people experiencing some degree of loss (grief) as well as stress or anxiety throughout the divorce process. Protecting your mental health is a priority. Focusing on: - Setting clear boundaries for yourself  - Engaging in physical activities that promote overall wellness  - Lean on trusted sources (friends &/or family) for support  - Seeking out [divorce recovery therapy](https://sanjosecounseling.com/therapy/divorce-recovery/) when it is indicated Having strong support systems can help you make better decisions regarding the legal and financial aspects of the divorce. ### 6. Use mediation for slightly contested divorce [Mediation](https://ffmediation.com/) can be helpful for couples who are in disagreement over several issues but would prefer to avoid going to court. This process uses a neutral third party to assist each side in finding common ground on their issues, rather than resorting to litigation. Generally, mediation is quicker, cheaper, and far less stressful than a litigated case. Most commonly, mediation is used when parties have differences involving scheduling with children, spousal support, and/or dividing property, and wish to preserve the option of obtaining a consent decree for an uncontested entry of Judgment. ### 7. Check your divorce eligibility for california Before you file, be sure to check if you qualify to get divorced in California. The general rule of thumb is that both spouses need to have lived in California for a minimum of six months.  Additionally, at least one spouse needs to have resided in the county where the case will be filed for at least three months. There is an additional requirement that you wait for six months from the time your spouse receives the paperwork before the divorce can become final. ### 8. Find easier and cheaper ways There are many ways to finalize your divorce more affordably depending on your financial situation and support requirements. **(a). DIY divorce** [In DIY divorce](https://thecompletedivorce.com/do-it-yourself-divorce-california-comprehensive-guide/) you will manage the divorce process utilizing available resources (educational materials, etc.) and minimal support. TCD offers a DIY product that includes portal access, course-based instruction regarding necessary legal forms, live workshops, and unlimited phone assistance for $49.99/month. However, this option does not include additional filing support, mediation services, and calculation assistance. **(b). The Complete Divorce fully guided divorce** In addition to the items listed in the [DIY product,](https://thecompletedivorce.com/) this service includes filing support, review of submitted paperwork by both parties, calculation assistance, and mediation services as needed. Pricing may vary based on individual service requirements. **(c). Self-representation divorce** In [this type of divorce](https://thecompletedivorce.com/self-representing-divorce-california-things-to-know/), you will complete and submit all documents necessary for the completion of the divorce yourself and may have to appear at court hearings. Some counties now provide electronic submission options through [e-filing.](https://thecompletedivorce.com/california-e-file-divorce-guide/) **(d)California Courts Self-Help Option** The [California courts self-help center](https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/) has resources available to help you fill out forms and find general procedures, as well as possible waivers of court filing fees if you are unable to pay for these costs. ## Ready to Take Control of Your Divorce? The better you prepare for your divorce prior to filing, the more you will be able to financially protect yourself, minimize conflicts, and reduce the time that is lost due to delays.  Understanding the types of divorces you have, gathering all necessary documentation, and identifying which process is best suited to your needs will significantly affect costs and stress.  No matter if you choose to file an uncontested divorce, mediate your divorce or represent yourself in court, having a structured plan is essential in maintaining control over the process.  [Start your divorce](https://thecompletedivorce.com/pricing/) for $49.99/mo and let’s be the professional service and divorce expert on your side so that you don’t have to hire the lawyers or visit the court. ## FAQ — Things to Consider When Getting Divorce Q. Will a judge deny an uncontested divorce? Yes. An uncontested divorce may be denied by a judge (or delayed) where all required forms have not been completed, disclosure information has not been filed, or the terms in the Settlement Agreement are ambiguous, unfair or unenforceable.  Q. What are the disadvantages of an uncontested divorce? You are responsible for accuracy. A poorly drafted agreement or failure to include all required financial information may result in potential future legal or financial consequences if not properly addressed. Q. How does the court go for uncontested divorce? The court will review your documents, as well as your disclosures and settlement agreement. In the event that all of the documentation meets the California court’s criteria, then there will be no trial. The judge will simply sign your final judgment. 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/what-to-do-before-filing-for-divorce-in-california.md/page/2/) [Page3](https://thecompletedivorce.com/what-to-do-before-filing-for-divorce-in-california.md/page/3/) [Page4](https://thecompletedivorce.com/what-to-do-before-filing-for-divorce-in-california.md/page/4/) [Page5](https://thecompletedivorce.com/what-to-do-before-filing-for-divorce-in-california.md/page/5/) [Next »](https://thecompletedivorce.com/what-to-do-before-filing-for-divorce-in-california.md/page/2/)