Summary
A new law in California, effective January 1, aims to make divorce less expensive and faster by allowing couples to file joint petitions for $435. The law broadens eligibility for this joint filing process to include more couples, including those with children and greater assets, but it requires both parties to agree on key terms like property division beforehand.
Key Facts
- The new law allows couples to file a joint petition for divorce or legal separation for $435.
- It was signed by Governor Gavin Newsom and took effect on January 1.
- Previously, only couples meeting strict criteria could use joint petitions; now many more can, as long as they agree on key issues.
- The law creates a middle ground between summary divorce and regular divorce proceedings.
- Couples must agree in advance on custody, support, and property division to use this new process.
- The joint filing marks the start of the case, eliminating the need for a process server.
- Divorcing couples with children must provide details about the children and intended resolutions.
- The divorce rate in California was 7.45% in 2023, one of the country's lowest.
