How Long Does a Divorce Take in California? (2026)

How long a divorce takes in California comes down to two things you can largely predict: how quickly you finish the paperwork, and how long the state requires you to wait before finalizing. Here's the 2026 timeline.

Finishing the paperwork: a weekend

For an uncontested divorce, most people complete the questionnaire and documents in a weekend or less. It's the step people dread most and finish fastest.

California's waiting period

After you file, California generally requires a six-month waiting period after your spouse is served. (Cal. Fam. Code § 2339 sets the 6-month waiting period.) A mandatory waiting period can't be skipped, so it's usually the biggest single factor in your total timeline.

Court processing and finalizing

On top of the waiting period, the Superior Court clerk needs time to process everything, and a busy county can add a few weeks. Once the waiting period passes and your paperwork is in order, a judge signs the decree, sometimes without a hearing.

Realistic estimate

For a typical agreed California divorce, plan on a few weeks to a few months from filing to final decree. A contested divorce, by contrast, can drag on for a year or more.

This guide is general information, not legal advice, and rules change, always confirm current requirements with your county court or a licensed attorney. When you start with us, your forms and checklist are tailored to your state and county automatically.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a divorce cost in California in 2026?

Preparing an uncontested divorce in California with SimplyDivorceOnline is a flat $149, plus your county court's filing fee ($435 per spouse (2026); couples who agree can file one joint petition, Form FL-700, for a single $435 fee). That's a fraction of hiring an attorney, which commonly runs $10,000+ for a contested case.

How long does a divorce take in California?

Most people finish the paperwork in a weekend. After you file, California generally requires a six-month waiting period after your spouse is served, usually the biggest factor in your overall timeline.

Do I need a lawyer to get divorced in California?

No. If you and your spouse agree on the terms, you can file an uncontested divorce in California yourself using the correct court forms. A lawyer is mainly worth it if your case is contested or involves complex assets, a business, or a custody dispute.

Can I get divorced in California if my spouse won't cooperate?

Yes. California, like every state, allows a no-fault divorce, so your spouse cannot block it. If they don't respond after being properly served, the court can grant a default divorce.

Where do I file for divorce in California?

You file with the Superior Court in the county where you (or your spouse) live, using the Petition, Form FL-100 (or joint Form FL-700). Your county clerk processes the case; California's official court website has current forms and fees.