Want to know what you need to do next? Whether you're just thinking about divorce, are in the middle of one, or are navigating your post-divorce life, here are the top resources for people in California. We've ordered them according to the typical step-by-step flow of divorce. And, as always, reach out to us if you have more specific questions.
Just thinking about divorce?
First, your official date of separation matters, so read this article. You have three options for how to end your marriage in California. Read about them here. We also recommend reading our article about why it's better to move forward with a divorce that's inevitable vs. waiting for the "right time" (hint: there's no perfect time).
Choosing the right legal help for your divorce
Nothing frustrates us more than lawyers who don't do their job properly. Choose the right legal help for your divorce – read our advice.
Which Hello Divorce plan is best for me?
Take our quiz, or refer to our summaries of each plan to determine how we can best help you during your divorce – and make it as affordable as possible.
California divorce process flowchart
Visualize the divorce process from start to finish with this handy flowchart. It explains all the steps that need to be taken before you can finalize your divorce.
The 3 steps to divorce in California
The divorce process in California is complicated. But don't worry, Hello Divorce has broken it down into three easy-to-follow steps with its California Divorce Navigator. Find out how Hello Divorce can help you during each step in this article.
Most common California divorce questions
Get answers to the top 10 questions people like you ask our Hello Divorce managers during their intro calls here.
How to file for divorce in California
This article guides you through how and in what county to file a divorce petition and summons (both are required) in California. If you have children, you'll also need to file a UCCJEA.
Serving your spouse
This article guides you through how to serve your spouse divorce papers in California. Learn more about serving your spouse here.
What to do if you've been served with divorce papers
Learn what to do next and what to expect in this article, and find out if and how you should respond here.
Complete list of California divorce forms
Access all the forms you will need here.
Financial disclosures
Learn about all the required financial disclosures in California divorce in this article.
California child support calculator
Get an estimate of California child support by filling out this form. The results will help inform your position for mediation or negotiation with your spouse. However, this only provides an estimate and is not a formal calculation.
Spousal support in California
Learn all about spousal support, or alimony, by reading this article.
Preparing for court
Court is only necessary in California if you are unable to come to an agreement. There are several types of hearings you may need to attend. If you need to appear at any court hearings, you'll want to dress appropriately. Read or dos and don'ts here.
My QDRO has been filed. Now what?
Read this article to understand everything you need to know about your Qualified Domestic Relations Order(s) (QDRO), which will divide your retirement plan(s). Need assistance with your QDRO? Our trusted partner, SimpleQDRO, can help.
Check the legal status of your divorce case
In most California counties, you can check the status of your case online by entering your case number and/or name.
Final judgment / Finalizing your divorce
Use our judgment checklist to ensure that you complete every document you need to get your California divorce judgment past picky court clerks and into the hands of the judge who will sign off on it and grant your divorce.
Restoring your former (maiden) last name
If you would like to keep your name the same, then there is nothing you need to do during the divorce process. If, however, you would like to have your former name restored, doing so is a simple process. This article addresses the steps you need to take to restore your former name before or after your divorce has been finalized.
7 life-changing lessons one learns after divorce
What life lessons or skills did you learn during or after the divorce process that have given you more perspective and/or joy? Learn more here.
Free divorce checklists and worksheets
Check out all of our free downloadable/printable Hello Divorce checklists and worksheets to help you stay organized and less overwhelmed.
Are you covering everything in your Divorce Agreement?
See what most people include in their Agreements with our free download.
