The experience in a divorce process doesn’t need to be as tedious as rocket science before it is completed. And one of the ways to speed up a divorce process is by knowing the amount of money it would cost you in the place where you reside. However, it is necessary to note that the amount to get a divorce approved is not the same for all states in the United States. Divorce In California
In California, to set the ball of a divorce process rolling, you would have to start by paying a filing fee of about $435; while with the presence of kids, the average legal fee for divorce costs about $26,300, and without kids, it would cost about $17,500.
What Duration Can The Divorce Process Take?
Now, what makes these prices to be on the high or low side most times has to do with the number of issues presented, the time it takes for a settlement to be agreed upon, and the type of process that is used. Also, before a legal divorce can be fully certified, it could take about eight to 20 months. But on the average side, the length of time for the completion of a divorce case is 15 months right from the first day that the divorce is filed in court to the day that it is given.
Moreover, some factors are capable of extending the duration process if they are present. These factors include:
- The involvement of children between a couple; a few months could be added to the divorce process because of this.
- If you have valuable assets or businesses.
- The rate of responsiveness of one’s spouse; means that if a spouse is not cooperating or convinced in getting a divorce, the process could be stalled.
- If either of the couple is seeking spousal support, the divorce process could be delayed.
- If either of the couple or the attorney handling their divorce case is on a tight schedule, then the divorce process may not be as quick as expected.
Is It Possible To File For a Divorce without an Attorney in California?
Fortunately, you can kick-start a divorce process in California without the presence of a lawyer. However, it is better to have a lawyer close to you as a guide. This is to avoid any complications that may arise from any contested issues as it would be handled professionally. But it is not officially compulsory to have a lawyer before you obtain a divorce. And if your case is being tried before a judge, you can represent yourself, although this is not advisable.
What Are The Types Of Divorce Present In California?
Two main types of divorce are recognized in California, and they are:
- Contested divorce
- Uncontested divorce
Contested divorce: this occurs when both spouses disagree on some angles of the divorce or all of them. The moment this happens, it simply means that there would be a trial before a judge to settle matters between the two disgruntled parties. This is what mainly makes a divorce process to be elongated.
Uncontested divorce: here, there is agreement on all the aspects of divorce between the spouses. And since there is a mutual understanding to end their marriage, it is not pertinent for them to appear before a judge. This divorce type is a cheap and fast one compared to the regular one. Also, apart from having the choice to get professional help, it is possible to use an online divorce service; this is a DIY procedure that helps in bringing the marriage to an end quickly.
What Other Divorce Procedure Is Available In California?
Apart from the contested and uncontested divorce procedure present in California, there is another made easy procedure known as “Summary Dissolution.” However, you must satisfy several conditions to qualify for it.
Summary Dissolution is simply a shortened version of the traditional divorce process, and it usually requires fewer paper works in court. Under this, once both spouses have agreed and filed all the necessary paperwork with the court, a 6 month waiting period will ensue. And once the waiting period is over, divorce will take place.
The conditions that may qualify a couple to get a summary dissolution would include:
- There are no minor children between the spouses.
- The number of years of which they were married is not more than 5 years.
- The couple has no important asset or property, such as owned or mortgaged house.
- The overall value of marital property is less than a specific amount; that is, between $25000 and $35000, which does not also include the value of vehicles.
- Both of them forfeit any right to spousal support.
Conclusion
In conclusion, getting a divorce in California may not necessarily be something that should rip you off every penny you have worked for. If you are interested in getting a divorce without racking your brain, simply talk to a lawyer, and he will put you through it.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much money should I have before I can get a divorce in California?
You must have at least $26300 if kids are included or $17500 if kids are not present. - Do I need a Lawyer before I can get a divorce?
No, you can get a divorce without a lawyer; all you need is to agree with your spouse about getting a divorce without the need for a brawl, and you would get it through an online divorce service. - How long can the divorce process take?
It can take an average of 15 months, but the time could be reduced to six months if you and your spouse have a mutual agreement to divorce without quarrels. - What other money is involved in the divorce process?
Before you can start a divorce process in California, you would have to pay a filing fee of $435.
