When Is My Divorce Final?

Regardless if you were already served with divorce papers or are simply considering the prospect of divorce, the San Diego divorce attorneys at Cage & Miles, LLP can assist you in limiting the impact a divorce can have on your future, your lifestyle, and your finances. You should not have to go through this emotional process on your own. Reach out to us today!
Get Personalized Legal Support

The right legal support can change everything. Take the first step today and connect with an attorney who understands your needs.

Find My Attorney

When spouses begin the process of divorce, generally one of the first things they might be wondering is when it will all be over. After all, divorce is not exactly a walk in the park. It is an emotional experience and, regardless of who initiated it, chances are that you do not want to have to endure it longer than is necessary. While you might be ready to end this as soon as possible, you will have to face a mandatory waiting period before you can begin moving on.

Filing and Waiting

Even if you and your spouse are in total agreement when it comes to every critical issue, you cannot secure a divorce immediately. In California, the residency requirement for divorce is 6 months, so if you or your spouse have not lived in the state for at least that long, you will have to wait before you can file and serve your petition for divorce. Once you are able to file, your spouse will have 30 days to answer. However, if your spouse requests more time to respond, the court will likely grant it.

Additionally, you will have another waiting period of 6 months that begins on the date you serve your spouse with divorce papers, though not necessarily when you file your petition. As soon as this waiting period ends, assuming you and your spouse have reached an agreement, your attorney can submit it to the court and the judge will sign it into a decree of divorce. If you and your spouse have yet to reach an agreement, you will have to either take your case to trial to reach a settlement or use a different method, such as mediation or collaborative divorce, in order to come to reach a resolution.

Divorce Attorneys in San Diego

Regardless if you were already served with divorce papers or are simply considering the prospect of divorce, the San Diego divorce attorneys at Cage & Miles, LLP can assist you in limiting the impact a divorce can have on your future, your lifestyle, and your finances. You should not have to go through this emotional process on your own. Reach out to us today!

Call our office at (858) 943-2060 to request a consultation.

Get Started Today

Get matched with the right attorney for your case

Schedule a confidential, no-obligation conversation with our team.
We’ll discuss your unique situation and match you with the attorney best suited to help you move forward.

Find My Attorney
Legal Insights & Tips

Related Articles

View All Blog Articles
A bronze balance scale stands in front of a row of dark blue law books.
Family Law

Can I File for Divorce In California If My Spouse Is Out of State?

Yes, you can file for divorce in California even if your spouse lives in another state—but there are specific residency, jurisdiction, and service requirements that must be followed. This blog explains how California handles out-of-state divorces, including residency rules, property and custody jurisdiction, and proper service of process under CCP §415 and Family Code §5700.201.
AUTHORS
PRIMARY SERVICES
SECONDARY SERVICES
Read Article
Can I File for Divorce In California If My Spouse Is Out of State?
A judge’s gavel rests on a torn divorce document with two wedding rings beside it.
Family Law

Domestic Violence and Divorce in California: What You Need to Know

Domestic violence can take many forms—physical, emotional, financial, or psychological—and has a major impact on how divorce cases are handled in California. This blog explains how allegations of abuse influence custody, support, and property division, and outlines the legal protections available to ensure safety and stability for survivors.
AUTHORS
PRIMARY SERVICES
SECONDARY SERVICES
Read Article
Domestic Violence and Divorce in California: What You Need to Know
A couple sits at a table with divorce papers in front of them, their wedding rings placed on top of the document.
Family Law

Divorce for High-Income Couples in California: What to Expect

High-income divorces in California are complex due to intricate financial portfolios, business interests, and privacy concerns. This blog explains the unique challenges these couples face—such as asset valuation, fluctuating income, and public scrutiny—and emphasizes the importance of experienced legal counsel to protect wealth, privacy, and long-term financial stability
AUTHORS
PRIMARY SERVICES
SECONDARY SERVICES
Read Article
Divorce for High-Income Couples in California: What to Expect
No CONTRIBUTORS found.