California Divorce Guide
Everything you need to know about divorce in California. 33 in-depth guides covering your rights, costs, and options.
Property Division
Community Property (50/50)
Filing Fee
$435–$450
Waiting Period
6 months
Residency
6 months state, 3 months county
Divorce Type
No-Fault Only
Custody
Joint Custody Presumption
Key Facts About California Divorce
- ✓Community property state — strict 50/50 split
- ✓6-month mandatory waiting period
- ✓10-year marriage threshold for potentially permanent alimony
- ✓Automatic Temporary Restraining Orders (ATROs) on filing
California Divorce Guides
California Property Division
Community property (50/50) rules — what gets divided, what stays yours, and how courts handle the house, retirement, and debts.
California Spousal Support & Alimony
How spousal support is determined, types of support, factors judges consider, and realistic expectations for your case.
California Child Custody Laws
Joint custody presumption, legal vs. physical custody, common schedules, and mistakes to avoid.
California Divorce Process & Timeline
6 months waiting period. Step-by-step process from filing to final judgment.
California Divorce Costs & How to File
Filing fee: $435–$450. Attorney costs, mediation, fee waivers, DIY options, and how to keep costs down.
California Child Support
How child support is calculated
California Uncontested Divorce
When both spouses agree
California Divorce Mediation
Resolving disputes without court
California Divorce & Taxes
Tax implications of divorce
California Divorce & the Family Home
What happens to the house
California Common-Law Marriage & Divorce
Recognition, rights, and how to divorce without a marriage certificate
California Adultery & Divorce Laws
How cheating affects alimony, property, and custody
California Alienation of Affection
Can you sue the person who broke up your marriage?
California Contested Divorce
When you can't agree
California Divorce with Children
Complete guide for parents
California Divorce & Domestic Violence
Getting divorced safely
California Divorce & Retirement Accounts
Dividing 401k, pension, IRA
California Divorce & Debt
Who pays which debts
California Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements
How prenups affect divorce
California Legal Separation vs. Divorce
Key differences and when to choose each
California Collaborative Divorce
Working together with attorneys
California Moving with Children After Divorce
Relocation rules and requirements
California Modifying Custody & Support Orders
Changing court orders after divorce
California High Net Worth Divorce
Complex assets and high-income cases
California Military Divorce
Special rules for service members
California Divorce & Business Ownership
Protecting or dividing a business
California Health Insurance After Divorce
COBRA, marketplace, and coverage options
California Grandparent Visitation Rights
When grandparents can seek visitation
California Dating During Divorce
Legal risks and practical advice
California Annulment
When and how to annul a marriage
California Filing for Divorce Online
Online filing options and services
California Divorce & Immigration Status
How divorce affects visas and green cards
California Father's Rights in Divorce
Custody, support, and equal parenting
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Legal Disclaimer: These guides cover California divorce law for general informational purposes only. Laws change frequently. Always consult a licensed California family law attorney for advice specific to your situation.