Premier Los Angeles Divorce Attorneys –
Navigating divorce in Los Angeles requires understanding both California law and local court procedures. Our firm has guided countless clients through this process, and we’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you anticipate what lies ahead.
Phase 1: Preparation (Weeks 1-4)
Filing Requirements
– Residency: At least one spouse must have lived in California for 6 months, and in LA County for 3 months
– Grounds: California is a no-fault state (“irreconcilable differences”)
– Initial Documents: Petition for Dissolution (FL-100) and Summons (FL-110)
Pro Tip: The Stanley Mosk Courthouse currently processes filings 2-3 business days faster than other LA locations.
Phase 2: Response Period (Weeks 4-12)
Your spouse has 30 days to respond after being served. During this time:
– Temporary orders may be established for:
– Child custody/support
– Spousal maintenance
– Use of marital residence
– Financial disclosures (FL-142) must be exchanged
Recent Change: As of 2025, LA courts are requiring more detailed cryptocurrency disclosures.
Phase 3: Discovery & Negotiation (Months 3-6)
Asset Division Considerations
Community property laws apply to:
– Real estate (including out-of-state properties)
– Retirement accounts (QDROs may be required)
– Businesses established during marriage
LA-Specific Insight: Judges increasingly consider separate property contributions to community assets.
Phase 4: Resolution (Months 6-12+)
Three Potential Paths
1. Settlement Agreement (60% of our cases)
– Drafting marital settlement agreement
– Filing stipulated judgment
2. Mediation (30% of cases)
– Average 3-5 sessions
– Typically $5,000-$15,000 total cost
3. Trial (10% of cases)
– LA County currently has 8-14 month wait for trial dates
– Average trial lasts 2-5 days
Final Steps
– Judgment Entry: FL-180 form
– Effective Date: 6 months + 1 day after filing/service
– Post-Divorce Matters: Often overlooked modifications to:
– Beneficiary designations
– Estate plans
– Insurance policies
Why Proper Guidance Matters
The difference between an optimal and unfavorable outcome often comes down to:
✅ Strategic timing of filings
✅ Precise financial disclosures
✅ Negotiation approach tailored to your judge
Our attorneys bring decade of LA-specific experience to each case. For a consultation regarding your situation, please contact us at (310) 917-1044.
