Legal Question in Family Law in California

Reply: Questions on filing for divorce.

1. What will it cost to file the papers myself? DEPENDS UPON THE COUNTY YOU LIVE IN 2. How much trouble is it to fill them out and file them? YOU NEED TO KNOW WHAT YOU ARE DOING 3. How long will it take? TOO MANY VARIABLES TO PROVIDE YOU WITH AN ANSWER - NEED MORE INFORMATION. 4. Is it recommended to use one of the online resources like legalzoom.com to get the papers done the right way the first time? I DO NOT KNOW ABOUT THAT SERVICE, BUT A QUALIFIED PARALEGAL CAN DO THE WORK FOR YOU. 5. What would happen if I were to file for divorce in California and then move to another state after filing, but before we're divorced? SHOULD BE NO PROBLEM.

I can not tell from your information if you qualify for a Summary Dissolution or not. We do offer paralegal support services and our paralegals are attorney supervised, very experienced, and we are accustomed to working with internet clients. Check out our web site at www.calattorney.net!

Brian Levy, Esq.

Re: Questions on filing for divorce.

The clerk of the court can give you the exact amount of the filing fees. They were just increased effective next week. But, shouldn't be more than a few hundred bucks. All you need is a Marital Settlement Agreement and a Proposed Judgment. Once the Judge enter the decree of dissolution it becomes final after six months. And, yes, you may leave the state whenever you like during the process just as long as you make any and all appearances required by the court. The local courthouse will have the necessary forms to file. Good luck and thanks for inquiring.

Re: Questions on filing for divorce.

The old addage goes...a person who represents him or herself has a fool for a client. However, yes, you can do this yourself, but there are so many hurdles to pass over. Directions re filing, etc., I cannot provide. Using any service other than the services of a lawyer is questionable at best. Finally, as long as you were a resident of California for six months prior to filing petition, you can leave state, however, it may make things even more complicated, unless, again, you have a lawyer to appear on your behalf. If other questions, please call. 800-685-6950