Can You Get Divorced Without a Lawyer?
Yes! In California, you have the legal right to represent yourself. For simple uncontested divorces, most couples don't need expensive lawyers.
When You Can Divorce Without a Lawyer
Self-representation works best when your situation is straightforward:
You CAN file without a lawyer if:
- You and your spouse agree on all major issues
- You have no minor children, OR agree on custody
- You have no significant property disputes
- Neither spouse owns a business
- No domestic violence is involved
- You're both willing to cooperate
Consider a lawyer if:
- Your spouse is uncooperative or hostile
- Complex assets (retirement, stock options, real estate)
- Custody is heavily disputed
- There's a history of domestic violence
- One spouse owns a business
- High-value debts need division
How to File for Divorce Without a Lawyer
Gather Your Information
Basic details about you, your spouse, your marriage, and any shared property or children.
Complete the Required Forms
California requires 10+ Judicial Council forms: FL-100, FL-110, FL-115, FL-120, FL-141, FL-142, FL-150, FL-170, FL-180, and more.
File with the Court
Submit your forms to your county's Superior Court clerk and pay the filing fee ($435-450).
Serve Your Spouse
Your spouse must be officially notified. They can sign an acknowledgment or be served by a third party.
Wait for Response Period
Your spouse has 30 days to respond. After 6 months, your divorce can be finalized.
Forms You'll Need
California divorce requires specific Judicial Council forms. Here's what DivorceBuddy prepares for you:
Main form that starts your divorce
Official notice to your spouse
Proves spouse was notified
For spouse to respond
Financial disclosure cover
Property and debt division
Financial declaration
If spouse doesn't respond
Statement for judgment
Final divorce document
Required for LA County
Common Challenges When Filing Alone
Form Errors
❌ One wrong checkbox can get your filing rejected
✓ DivorceBuddy validates every field before you file
Legal Terminology
❌ Forms use confusing legal jargon
✓ Our chat explains everything in plain English
Missing Deadlines
❌ Strict timelines for responses and filings
✓ We track your timeline and send reminders
Incomplete Filings
❌ Courts reject incomplete packets
✓ DivorceBuddy ensures all required forms are included
Why DivorceBuddy is Better Than DIY
AI-Guided Questions
Answer simple questions in a conversation, not confusing legal forms
Error Prevention
Our system catches mistakes before they become rejections
All Forms Included
Every California Judicial Council form you need, properly filled out
Spanish Support
Full bilingual support for English and Spanish speakers
Step-by-Step Guidance
Know exactly what to do next at every stage
Affordable Price
Just $149 for complete document preparation