How to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Anaheim, CA (Complete Step-by-Step Guide)

Divorcing without a lawyer in Anaheim is completely possible — and for many couples, it’s the most affordable and straightforward way to finalize an uncontested divorce. California allows spouses to represent themselves in court (“in pro per”), and the Orange County Superior Court provides a clear structure for filing the required forms, serving your spouse, and finalizing your divorce.

This guide explains every step of the California DIY divorce process, including Orange County–specific procedures, required forms, costs, timelines, and when you may still need legal help.

Can You Really Divorce Without a Lawyer in Anaheim, CA?

Yes. Thousands of California residents complete their divorce each year without hiring an attorney. A DIY self-representation process works best when:

• Your divorce is uncontested

• You and your spouse agree on property, custody, and support

• You want to avoid high attorney fees

• Your finances and parenting issues are straightforward

• You prefer an organized, guided approach through California’s forms

If disputes arise later, you can still consult an attorney — but most uncontested Anaheim cases are fully manageable without one.

How to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Anaheim — Step by Step

1. Meet California’s Residency Requirements

To file for divorce in Anaheim, either spouse must have:

• Lived in California for at least 6 months

• Lived in Orange County for at least 3 months

If you haven’t met the timeframe yet, you can file for legal separation and later convert it to divorce.

2. Gather Required California Divorce Forms

California uses standardized statewide forms plus a few local requirements through Orange County.

Required Judicial Council Forms

Most Anaheim divorces require:

• FL-100 — Petition for Dissolution

• FL-110 — Summons

• FL-115 — Proof of Service

• FL-140 — Declaration of Disclosure

• FL-142 — Schedule of Assets and Debts

• FL-150 — Income & Expense Declaration

• FL-160 — Property Declaration

Orange County Local Forms

Depending on your case, you may also need:

• Family Law Cover Sheet

• Judgment checklist

• Local child custody forms (if applicable)

Divorce.com prepares all required California + Orange County forms for you.

3. File Your Divorce Forms With the Orange County Superior Court

Anaheim divorces are filed at:

Orange County Superior Court – Lamoreaux Justice Center
341 The City Drive
Orange, CA 92868

Filing Fee

• $435 for most dissolution petitions

• Fee waivers available (forms FW-001 and FW-003)

You may file:

• In person

• By mail

• Electronically (where available)

4. Serve Your Spouse Properly

You cannot serve the papers yourself. Acceptable methods include:

• A third-party adult (18+)

• Professional process server

• Sheriff’s civil division

• Certified mail (rare, needs court approval)

Once served, file FL-115 Proof of Service.

5. Exchange Mandatory Financial Disclosures

California requires full financial transparency before finalizing a divorce.

Each spouse must exchange:

• Income documents

• Lists of assets and debts

• Tax returns

• FL-140, FL-142, and FL-150 forms

This step ensures your settlement is fair and legally enforceable.

6. Create Your Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA)

Your MSA must address:

• Division of property and debts

• Child custody and parenting time

• Child support

• Spousal support (alimony)

• Medical and educational expenses

• Tax issues and future obligations

A complete MSA is crucial to a smooth uncontested divorce.

Divorce.com helps you produce a clear, court-ready agreement.

7. Submit Your Judgment Packet

To finalize your divorce, you must submit:

• FL-180 — Judgment

• FL-190 — Notice of Entry of Judgment

• Your Marital Settlement Agreement

• Orange County judgment forms

• Child support documents (if applicable)

A judge will review your packet and sign if everything is correct.

8. California’s Mandatory 6-Month Waiting Period

California imposes a 6-month waiting period beginning on the date:

• Your spouse is served or

• Your spouse responds

Even if you complete all paperwork early, your divorce cannot be finalized before this period ends.

How Long Does an Uncontested Divorce Take in Anaheim?

Most Anaheim uncontested divorces take:

• 6–8 months total (due to the mandatory waiting period)

• Faster if all forms are complete and accurate

• Longer if disclosures or service are delayed

Orange County is generally efficient with family filings, but accuracy is key.

How Much Does It Cost to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Anaheim?

Typical costs include:

• $435 filing fee

• $0–$100 for service of process

• $0 if preparing all forms yourself

• $499–$1999 using Divorce.com to prepare all forms + agreements

By comparison, attorney-led California divorces often cost $15,000–$30,000+, making DIY divorce far more affordable.

When You Should Still Consider Hiring a Lawyer

A DIY divorce may not be ideal if:

• Domestic violence or safety issues exist

• A spouse hides assets or obstructs the process

• You own a business or high-value property

• Parenting disputes are high-conflict

• One spouse refuses to sign or cooperate

For low-conflict cases, most Anaheim couples complete the process without legal representation.

Why Anaheim Couples Choose Divorce.com

Divorce.com helps California couples:

• Prepare all statewide + Orange County forms

• Build a complete Marital Settlement Agreement

• Avoid delays caused by incorrect filings

• Understand each step clearly

• Access optional attorney support when needed

It’s the most efficient, affordable way to complete a no-lawyer divorce in Anaheim.

Final Thoughts

Divorcing without a lawyer in Anaheim is entirely achievable — especially for couples with an uncontested case. With accurate forms, a solid settlement agreement, and clear guidance, you can complete your divorce quickly, affordably, and with confidence.

Divorce.com provides everything you need to file and finalize your Orange County divorce from start to finish.