Six Month Waiting Period For Divorce

California Family Law Section 2339(a) states that no judgment of dissolution is final for the purpose of terminating the marriage relationship of the parties until six months have expired from the date of service of a copy of summons and petition or the date of appearance of the respondent, whichever occurs first.

Thus, in California, you cannot get divorced prior to six months after service of the initial pleadings. This is the earliest date you can be divorced, and most divorce cases take longer. If you have an agreement prior to six months, you can still prepare the final paperwork, but the divorce will not be final until the six-month period.

If you have questions about divorce, call Morales Law, P.C. for a free consultation (805) 422-7966