California DIY Divorce: A Complete Guide

California offers several pathways for couples seeking a DIY divorce without hiring attorneys. From the streamlined summary dissolution to the new joint petition process, understanding your options can save thousands in legal fees. This guide covers e-filing portals, mediation programs, and eligibility requirements for California's self-help divorce options.

Summary Dissolution: The Fastest Track

Summary dissolution is California's most streamlined divorce process, but it comes with strict eligibility requirements. To qualify, you must meet all of the following criteria under Family Code sections 2400-2406:

• Married less than 5 years
• No minor children together
• No real estate ownership
• Community property under $57,000 (excluding vehicles)
• Separate property under $57,000 per spouse (excluding vehicles)
• Community debts under $7,000 (excluding vehicle loans)
• Neither spouse requests spousal support
• Both spouses sign a property division agreement

If you qualify, both spouses file jointly using Form FL-800 (Joint Petition for Summary Dissolution). There's no service requirement since both parties sign together, and you pay only one filing fee.

Joint Petition for Dissolution (New in 2026)

As of January 1, 2026, California introduced a broader joint petition option through Senate Bill 1427. Unlike summary dissolution, the new Joint Petition for Dissolution (Form FL-700) is available to all couples who agree on all divorce terms—regardless of marriage length, property value, or whether they have children.

This new pathway eliminates the need for one spouse to serve the other and requires only a single filing fee. If you and your spouse can reach a complete agreement on property division, support, and custody arrangements, this option offers significant cost and time savings.

E-Filing and Online Portals

E-filing availability varies by county in California. Many superior courts accept electronic filing for family law cases, which can save time and trips to the courthouse. Check your county's court website through the California Courts directory to determine if e-filing is available in your jurisdiction.

The California Courts Self-Help Center provides step-by-step guidance, fillable forms, and instructions for completing your DIY divorce paperwork correctly.

Filing Fees and Fee Waivers

The current filing fee for a dissolution petition is approximately $435-$450 (varies by county). If both spouses file separately, each pays this fee. However, the joint petition options require only one payment.

If you cannot afford the filing fee, California offers fee waivers based on income eligibility. File Form FW-001 (Request to Waive Court Fees) along with your petition. Fee waivers cover the filing fee, service costs, and other court expenses.

Free and Low-Cost Mediation

If you want an uncontested divorce but struggle to reach agreement with your spouse, mediation can help bridge the gap. California offers several mediation options:

• Family Court Services: Free mediation for custody and visitation disputes (mandatory before contested custody hearings under Family Code section 3170)
• Court-Connected Mediation: Many courts offer reduced-cost mediation programs for property and support issues
• Private Mediation: For hire, offering more flexibility in scheduling and approach

The 6-Month Waiting Period

All California divorces require a mandatory 6-month waiting period (Family Code section 2339). Your divorce cannot become final until 6 months after service of the summons and petition (or the respondent's first appearance). This waiting period applies even to summary dissolutions and joint petitions. Review our California divorce timeline for detailed milestones.

Estimate Your Divorce Costs

Use our calculator to estimate your total California divorce costs, including filing fees, service costs, and potential mediation expenses. For a complete checklist of required documents, see our California filing checklist.