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

Divorcing without a lawyer in Bakersfield is absolutely possible — and for many Kern County couples, it’s the simplest and most affordable way to end a marriage. California allows spouses to represent themselves (“pro se”) in divorce cases, and the Kern County Superior Court provides clear forms and procedures that make the process manageable without hiring an attorney.

This guide explains every step of how to file for divorce without a lawyer in Bakersfield, including California-required forms, Kern County filing procedures, timelines, and when legal help may still be beneficial.

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

Yes. California makes it straightforward to complete a self-represented divorce, especially if your case is uncontested.

A DIY divorce is ideal when:

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

• You want to avoid expensive attorney fees

• Your finances are relatively simple

• You want a direct, guided path to filing

• You prefer completing forms online rather than in a lawyer’s office

If disputes arise, you can always consult an attorney later — but most uncontested divorces in Bakersfield can be completed without one.

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

1. Confirm California’s Residency Requirements

Before filing for divorce in Bakersfield, either spouse must have lived:

• 6 months in California, and

• 3 months in Kern County

If you don’t meet this requirement yet, you can file for legal separation and later convert it to a divorce when the time requirement is met.

2. Gather the Required California Divorce Forms

California uses standardized Judicial Council forms, plus a few Kern County–specific documents.

Statewide California Forms

Most Bakersfield 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

Kern County Local Forms

Depending on your case, Kern County may require:

• Family Law Case Cover Sheet

• Local judgment forms

• Additional child-related forms if minors are involved

Divorce.com ensures all required California + county forms are prepared correctly.

3. File Your Forms With Kern County Superior Court

Bakersfield filings are handled in:

Kern County Superior Court — Metropolitan Division
1415 Truxtun Ave.
Bakersfield, CA 93301

Filing Fee

• California divorce filing fee: $435

• Fee waivers available using FW-001 and FW-003

You may file:

• In person

• By mail

• Electronically (for certain case types)

4. Serve Your Spouse

You cannot serve the papers yourself.

Approved service methods include:

• A friend or family member over 18

• A professional process server

• The Kern County Sheriff’s Office

• Certified mail (if approved by the court)

After service, file FL-115 (Proof of Service).

5. Exchange Mandatory Financial Disclosures

California requires full and honest financial transparency.

Both spouses must exchange:

• FL-150 (Income & Expense Declaration)

• FL-142 (Assets & Debts)

• Supporting financial documents (bank statements, tax returns, etc.)

• FL-140 (Declaration of Disclosure)

Disclosures are required even if everything is amicable.

6. Create a Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA)

Your MSA must address:

• Division of property and debts

• Custody and visitation

• Child support

• Spousal support (alimony)

• Health insurance and expenses

• Any special terms

A complete and detailed MSA is critical to a smooth uncontested divorce.

Divorce.com guides you through creating a court-ready agreement.

7. Submit Your Judgment Packet

To finalize your divorce, Kern County will require:

• FL-180 — Judgment

• FL-190 — Notice of Entry of Judgment

• Your signed Marital Settlement Agreement

• Child support worksheets (if minors)

• Kern County supplemental forms

Once reviewed and approved, the judge signs your judgment and the clerk mails copies to both spouses.

8. California’s Mandatory Six-Month Waiting Period

California imposes a six-month waiting period beginning the date your spouse is served.

This is the earliest date a divorce can be finalized — even if you complete paperwork sooner.

How Long Does an Uncontested Divorce Take in Bakersfield?

Typical Bakersfield timelines:

• 6–8 months for uncontested divorces

• Minimum 6 months required by California law

• Longer if documents are missing or disputed

Using structured forms and guided tools helps avoid delays common in Kern County filings.

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

Typical costs include:

• $435 filing fee

• $0–$100 for serving your spouse

• $0 if preparing forms yourself

• $499–$1999 using Divorce.com for full form + agreement prep

By comparison, attorney-led divorces in Kern County typically cost $10,000–$20,000+.

DIY divorce is by far the most cost-effective option.

When You Should Still Consider Hiring a Lawyer

Hiring a lawyer may be necessary if:

• Domestic violence or safety concerns exist

• Your spouse hides assets

• You own complex property (business, multiple homes, investment accounts)

• High-conflict custody issues arise

• One spouse refuses to negotiate

For straightforward, cooperative divorces, most Bakersfield couples complete the entire process without a lawyer.

Why Bakersfield Couples Use Divorce.com

Divorce.com helps California residents:

• Prepare all California + Kern County forms

• Create a complete and enforceable settlement agreement

• Avoid common filing errors

• Get step-by-step guidance throughout the process

• Access optional attorney support if needed

It’s the most affordable way to complete a Bakersfield divorce without hiring an attorney.

Final Thoughts

Divorcing without a lawyer in Bakersfield is entirely achievable — and often the best choice for couples wanting a straightforward, low-stress, low-cost process. With the right forms and clear guidance, you can complete your divorce confidently and efficiently.

Divorce.com helps you navigate each step of your Kern County divorce from filing to final judgment.