Streamlined Divorce in California: Is Summary Dissolution Right for You?

Posted on Aug 18, 2025 by Griswold LaSalle Staff

Streamlined Divorce in California

Considering a California divorce, but hoping for a less complex and costly process? You might qualify for a Summary Dissolution. This simplified procedure is designed for couples who meet specific criteria, allowing for a quicker and more amicable separation. It’s an excellent option for an uncontested divorce California. 

At Griswold LaSalle, we understand that even in straightforward cases, navigating the legal requirements can be daunting. This blog post will break down the essential qualifications for a California Summary Dissolution, and the steps involved, to help you determine if this path is right for you.

What is a Summary Dissolution?

A Summary Dissolution is a simplified divorce process available in California for couples whose marriages meet certain conditions. It’s often referred to as an “uncontested divorce” because both parties must agree on all aspects of their separation, including property division and debt.

Do You Qualify for a Summary Dissolution in California?

To be eligible for a Summary Dissolution, all of the following conditions must be met, outlining the key divorce requirements California:

  • Short Marriage: Your Marriage or registered domestic partnership must have lasted less than five years from the date of marriage to the date of separation. This is often referred to as a short marriage divorce.
  • No Children: You have no minor children together (born or adopted), and neither party is pregnant. This is a common characteristic of a no children divorce. 
  • Limited Debt: Your total community debt (debts incurred during the marriage, excluding car loans) must be less than $7,000.
  • No Real Estate: You do not own or lease any real estate (house, land, or other building). An exception exists for rented homes/apartments if the lease ends within one year of filing.
  • No Spousal Support: Neither party is seeking spousal support from the other.
  • Agree on Property Division: You and your spouse must have a complete agreement on how to divide all your community and separate property and debts. This speaks to the importance of property division divorce. 
  • Limited Assets: This is a key aspect of a limited assets divorce. 
    • Your combined community property (assets acquired during marriage, excluding cars and retirement accounts) must be worth less than 57,000.
    • Each of you individually must have separate property (assets acquired before marriage, after separation, or through inheritance/gift) worth less than $57,000.
    • Remember to include the value of retirement accounts (like 401ks or pensions) in your calculations, as these are considered property.
  • Residency: For most couples, one of you must have lived in California for the last six months and in the county where you file for the last three months.
    • Residency Exceptions:
      • If your domestic partnership was registered in California, you don’t need to meet the residency requirement. You can also end your partnership through the Secretary of State at no cost if you qualify for a summary dissolution.
      • Same-sex couples married in California but residing in a state that does not recognize their marriage can file for divorce in the California county where they were married.

Important Note: If even one of these conditions is not met, you cannot use the Summary Dissolution process.

The Summary Dissolution Process: Forms and Filing

If you meet all the requirements, the divorce process California involves completing and filing specific forms with the court. Key forms include:

  • Summary Dissolution Information (form FL-810): A required packet for both parties to read.
  • Income and Expense Declaration (form FL-150): One for each party.
  • Property Division Worksheets OR Disclosure Forms: You can either complete worksheets for determining the value and division of community and separate property and obligations, or use the Declaration of Disclosure (FL-140) and Schedule of Assets and Debts (FL-142) of Property Declaration (FL-160).
  • Joint Petition for Summary Dissolution (form FL-800): This is the main filing document.
  • Judgement of Dissolution and Notice of Entry of Judgement (form FL-825): The final judgement form.
  • Property Agreement: A written agreement detailing how you’ve divided your property and debts.

There is a filing fee of $435. However, fee waivers are available if you meet certain income requirements or receive public benefits. If only one party qualifies for a fee waiver, the other party still need to pay the full fee.

Once the Joint Petition for Summary Dissolution is filed, the divorce will be final six months later. During this six-month period, either party can file a Notice of Revocation or Petition for Summary Dissolution (form FL-830) to stop the divorce.

Is a Summary Dissolution Right for You?

While a Summary Dissolution can be more efficient and cost-effective way to end your marriage, it’s crucial to ensure your meet all the strict requirements. Missteps or failure to disclose all assets and debts can lead to complications down the line when ending a marriage California.

Need Assistance? Contact Griswold LaSalle

Even with a simplified process, having legal guidance can provide peace of mind and ensure everything is handled correctly. If you’re considering a Summary Dissolution in California, contact the experienced team at Griswold LaSalle. We specialize in California family law and can help you determine your eligibility, prepare the necessary paperwork, and guide you through every step of the process. Whether you need a Hanford divorce attorney or a Fresno divorce lawyer, our team is here to assist.