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How to File for Divorce in Los Angeles, CA

Step-by-step guide to filing for divorce in Los Angeles, CA. Requirements, costs, and timelines. California is a community property state.

Property Type

Community

Filing Fee

$435–$450

Median Cost

$14,500–$62,000

Annual Divorces

130,000+

Understanding How to File for Divorce in Los Angeles, CA

To file for divorce in Los Angeles, CA, you must meet California’s residency requirement of 6 months. The filing fee is $435–$450. There is a mandatory waiting period of 6 months before the divorce can be finalized.

California only allows no-fault divorce. You file on the grounds of irreconcilable differences or irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.

An uncontested divorce in California typically costs $14,500 and takes 2–4 months. Contested cases average $62,000 and can take 12–18 months or longer. The governing statute is Cal. Fam. Code §2310.

Common Questions

How long do you have to live in California to file for divorce?
California requires 6 months of residency before you can file for divorce. Cal. Fam. Code §2310 governs the filing requirements.
Is California a community property or equitable distribution state?
California follows community property rules, meaning marital assets are generally split 50/50.
How much does a divorce cost in California?
Filing fees in California range from $435–$450. The median total cost is approximately $14,500 for uncontested divorces and $62,000 for contested cases.
How long does a divorce take in California?
California has a mandatory waiting period of 6 months. Uncontested divorces typically finalize in 2–4 months, while contested cases can take 12–18 months or longer.
How is child support calculated in California?
California uses the Income Shares model, based on both parents' combined income. The formula considers both parents' incomes, number of children, health insurance costs, and childcare expenses.

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Related Resources

This page provides general information about how to file for divorce in Los Angeles, CA and is not legal advice. Verify current statutes with Cal. Fam. Code §2310 or consult a licensed California attorney. Last reviewed March 2026.