Under the Family Law Act of 1969 the term "dissolution" was exchanged for "divorce". The soonest a dissolution can become final is 6 months and 1 day after service of summons and petition on the Respondent, which was reduced from the full year previously required.

The proceeding is commenced by filing a Petition in Superior Court. No one is blamed for the marriage problems as California is a no fault dissolution state. You can request counseling if you desire. After service on the Respondent, a default can be taken in approximately 30 days if your spouse does not respond.

If you and your spouse are in agreement as to the issues involved in dissolving the marriage and remain in agreement, no hearing is usually required. Our goal is to assist you in preparing your case uncontested. However, it is not always in your best interests legally to proceed with a case uncontested. After one of our attorneys reviews your proposed agreement, you will be advised accordingly.

Instructions to Client

This questionnaire must be filled out completely. Every question and every part of a question must be answered in order that we may best serve your needs in the dissolution. If the question does not apply to you, please put "N/A".

Names and addresses must be complete and accurate. Balances of money, where indicated, should be rounded off to the nearest dollar. If you are unaware of money owing, put down an approximation, or state that you don't know. If your spouse keeps the financial records, then so state.

Set forth exact dates. If you are unsure, estimate. Where required to set forth the value of property, estimate the "fair market value" (the amount for which it could be sold today), free and clear of all mortgages, deeds of trust, contracts, or other liens.

The word "property" includes real property, tangible and intangible personal property, money or rights to money (any moneys that you are owed such as damage lawsuits, notes, accounts receivable, etc.) and anything else of value, including pension or retirement plans, possible social security benefits, etc.