How Can I Verify That My California Divorce Filing Has Been Filed?

You may verify the filing of a divorce by calling the court

In California, you may file divorce through an attorney, in person, by mail or by fax. The process is started by filing a petition with the Superior Court in your district and paying the required filing fee. Whether you hired an attorney and want to verify that your case has been filed, or sent the petition in yourself and want to make sure it has been received, you may verify the filing of your case by contacting the Superior Court in which it was filed.

Instructions

Verify by Phone

1. Locate the contact information for the Superior Court in your county. This is available online at the California Courts website or in your local telephone book.

2. Call the Superior Court in your county. Explain to the person that answers that you are calling to verify the filing of a divorce and they will transfer you to the appropriate person. Once you are transferred, they should be able to find your case by your name, but if you have a common name, you may have to provide the respondent's name as well.

3. Ask the court clerk for your case number. You will need this number for any future filings and correspondence with the court. Keep this for future reference.

Verify in Person

1. Go to the clerk's office for the Superior Court in which your case is filed to obtain a file-marked copy of your petition to verify the filing of your case. This is ideal if you have not received a copy previously. Keep a file-marked copy of the petition for your records.

2. Ask the clerk to verify the filing of your petition, ask for the case number and request a copy of the petition.

3. Pay the clerk. There may be a small fee for the copies you receive, but it is usually only $1 per page. You may also request a certified copy, which the clerk endorses as being authentic.

Call Your Attorney

1. Contact your attorney if you filed your case with one.

2. Ask your attorney or paralegal for your case number for your records.

3. Request a copy of your petition from your attorney. Your attorney's office should provide a copy of the petition to you for your records.

References

• HG.org: The California Divorce Process
• California Courts: Find a Court