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Deciding to end a marriage is one of the most personal choices you'll ever make. It can bring up questions about where you'll live, how you'll share time with your children and how to divide the life you built together. Our Petaluma divorce attorneys are here to answer those questions gently and honestly, so you can face each decision with a steady heart.
At Modern Family Law, we take the time to explain every part of a California divorce in plain language. When you understand what's ahead, you can make thoughtful choices that protect your family. We work side by side with you, listen to what matters most and help you plan for the life you're building next.
Schedule a Free ConsultationCalifornia is a no-fault divorce state, which means no one has to prove the other did something wrong. In most cases, one spouse simply states that the marriage has irreconcilable differences, meaning the relationship can't be repaired. You won't have to relive private hurts in a courtroom to move forward.
Once you've made the decision, a little planning goes a long way. Thinking about your goals early, and talking them through with a divorce attorney, can save you time, money and stress.
Conflict is often what makes a divorce harder and more expensive than it needs to be. A calm, respectful start can keep small misunderstandings from growing into bigger disagreements. That's why we help you set a constructive tone from the very first conversation.
Some people file on their own, and others prefer to have a divorce attorney prepare and file everything for them. Either way, it helps to know the steps. Keep in mind that the paperwork can grow quickly when your case involves support, custody or property, and we're happy to take that weight on for you.
To file for divorce in California, you or your spouse must have lived in the state for at least six months. To file in Sonoma County, one of you must also have lived in the county for at least three months. If you don't meet these requirements yet, you can file for legal separation and later ask to change it to a divorce once you qualify.
You'll start with a Petition (form FL-100) and a Summons (form FL-110), plus any other forms your situation needs. Take your time and be accurate, because these forms set out what you're asking for. If you and your spouse agree on everything, you may be able to file one joint petition together instead (form FL-700, available since January 1, 2026).
Petaluma divorces are filed with the Superior Court of California, County of Sonoma, at the Civil and Family Law Courthouse, 3055 Cleveland Avenue in Santa Rosa. You'll pay a filing fee unless you qualify for a fee waiver, and the clerk will stamp your forms and give you a case number.
Next, your spouse receives copies of the court-stamped papers. Someone 18 or older who isn't you must deliver them, then complete a Proof of Service of Summons for you to file. Your spouse then has 30 days to file a response.
California asks spouses and domestic partners to share written information about what they own and owe, along with their income and expenses. This is called disclosure, and it helps both of you make decisions with the full picture. You can serve your disclosures with your petition, and no later than 60 days after filing it.
California has a six-month waiting period. It begins on the date your spouse is served or first appears in the case, not the day you file. Once that time has passed and your final paperwork is complete, the judge can sign your judgment, often without either of you appearing in court. When the judge signs, your divorce is final and your new chapter can begin.
You don't have to sort through this alone. Our Petaluma divorce attorneys will listen closely, learn what matters most to you and offer clear, caring guidance so you can step into your next chapter with confidence.
Frequently asked questions
Cost depends mostly on how much you and your spouse agree on and how complex your finances are. Agreed divorces usually cost far less than contested ones. We explain our fees up front, and our SimpleStart™ program may let qualified clients begin with a reduced retainer.
Yes. You or your spouse must have lived in California for at least six months and in Sonoma County for at least three months before filing for divorce. If you don't qualify yet, you can file for legal separation first.
Yes. California requires at least six months from the date your spouse is served or appears in the case before the divorce can be final. Many couples use that time to work out their agreement.
Since January 1, 2026, spouses who agree on all issues can file one joint petition (form FL-700) together. It can make the process simpler and less adversarial, though you'll still share financial disclosures.
You can still move forward. If your spouse is properly served and doesn't respond within 30 days, you can ask the court to enter a default and finish your divorce.
Our team brings years of California family law experience to every Petaluma case. We go to great lengths to help you understand the process, because understanding brings peace of mind and better decisions.
Preparation helps reduce surprises along the way. We also know divorce can strain a budget, so we're upfront about our fees, and our SimpleStart™ program may let qualified clients start their case with a reduced retainer. Ask about it during your free consultation.
Divorce is a big life change, and moving forward takes time. Start by learning about the process, then give yourself room to rebuild your routine and enjoy a fresh start. With integrity and compassion, we're here to help you start over.
We're not fans of surprises, and we suspect you aren't either. Our free California calculators give you an early estimate of child support, spousal support, attorney fees, asset division and parenting time before your consultation.
Divorce touches many parts of family life. You don't need to know every detail, but each page below can help you feel more prepared.
Our Calculators
We’re not fans of surprises and we suspect you aren’t either. We built these divorce calculators just for you, so you know what to expect every step of the way.
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