How to File for Divorce in Long Beach, California

Residents of Long Beach who meet residency requirements should file a divorce petition at the Long Beach Courthouse.

State law mandates that specific residency requirements are met prior to filing for divorce in California. One spouse must have resided in the state for at least six months and lived in the county of filing for at least three months. Residents of Long Beach are under the jurisdiction of the Los Angeles County Superior Court and may file a petition for dissolution of marriage at the Long Beach Courthouse. The appropriate forms are available through the Los Angeles County Superior Court and the family law facilitator offers general assistance to litigants who are not represented by an attorney.

Instructions

1. Obtain a petition for dissolution of marriage (Fl-100) and summons (FL-110) online at the California Courts website, as well as form FL-105 titled "Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act" if there are minor children from the marriage.

2. Access a family law cover sheet (FAM-020) through the Los Angeles Superior Court website.

3. Print all applicable forms. The forms can be filled out electronically or printed and handwritten in ink.

4. Complete the forms with the required information. Provide the date of marriage and separation. List any minor children of the marriage, as well as the children's age and date of birth. Include assets and debts of the marriage. Utilize the California Court's form FL-160 to list additional community or separate property if you require more space.

5. Indicate the relief you are seeking from the court, such as legal and physical custody of the children, visitation and child or spousal support. Attach the appropriate forms as required by your selection.

6. Make at least two copies of all completed documents.

7. Visit the Long Beach Courthouse to file your paperwork with the clerk. Have all copies file stamped and retain one copy for your records and another copy for service on your spouse.

8. Pay the required filing fee. At the time of publication, the fee to file a petition for dissolution of marriage is $395. Submit a fee waiver request (FW-001) if you are unable to afford the filing fee.

References

• California Courts: Prepare for Filing Your Case
• California Courts: Filing Your Case
• Superior Court of California County of Los Angeles: Family Law - Self Help
• Superior Court of California County of Los Angeles: Civil Fee Schedule

Resources

• Superior Court of California County of Los Angeles: Family Law Forms
• California Courts: Forms - Filing for Divorce or Separation