Divorce Lawyer in Sacramento, CA — Your Complete 2025 Guide

Finding the right divorce lawyer in Sacramento, California is one of the most important steps you’ll take during a challenging transition. Whether you're navigating child custody, dividing assets, or seeking a smoother uncontested divorce, this guide gives you everything you need to know about divorcing in Sacramento — including attorney costs, local courts, residency rules, requirements, and more affordable alternatives.

Do You Need a Divorce Lawyer in Sacramento?

A divorce lawyer can be essential if your case involves:

• Child custody, visitation, or parenting disputes

• High-conflict communication

• Complex financial matters or business ownership

• Real estate, pensions, or retirement accounts

• Contested spousal support

• Domestic violence, restraining orders, or safety concerns

But you may NOT need an attorney if your case is uncontested, meaning you and your spouse agree on:

• How to divide property and debts

• Parenting schedules and custody

• Child support and spousal support

• Pension, retirement, and asset division

• Who will remain in the marital home

In those cases, Divorce.com can prepare or even file your Sacramento divorce forms for far less than hiring a lawyer.

Where to File for Divorce in Sacramento, CA

All divorce cases in Sacramento are handled by the Superior Court of California, County of Sacramento.

Primary Filing Location

Gordon D. Schaber Sacramento County Courthouse
720 9th Street
Sacramento, CA 95814

This courthouse handles:

• Divorce and legal separation filings

• Child custody and visitation

• Child support and spousal support

• Domestic violence restraining orders

• Mediation and mandatory settlement conferences

Sacramento also supports e-filing, which can accelerate uncontested cases.

California Residency Requirements for Divorce

To file for divorce in Sacramento County, you must meet California’s residency rules:

• At least 6 months of residency in California, AND

• At least 3 months of residency in Sacramento County

If you do not yet meet these requirements, you can file for legal separation and later convert it to a divorce.

How Divorce Works in Sacramento, CA

California uses a no-fault divorce system. You do not need to prove wrongdoing.

Here’s how the Sacramento divorce process works:

1. File the Petition and Summons (FL-100 & FL-110)

This begins your case in Sacramento Superior Court.

2. Serve Your Spouse

They have 30 days to respond.

3. Financial Disclosures (Mandatory)

California requires both spouses to exchange:

• Declaration of Disclosure

• Income & Expense Declaration (FL-150)

• Schedule of Assets & Debts (FL-142)

4. Parenting Requirements (If Children Are Involved)

Sacramento County requires parents to complete:

• A parenting plan

• Mediation through Family Court Services if custody is contested

5. Case Resolution

Uncontested cases may move directly to judgment.
Contested divorces may require:

• Case management conferences

• Hearings

• Mandatory mediation

• Trial (if unresolved)

California’s 6-Month Waiting Period

No divorce can be finalized until six months after the respondent is served — even if everything is uncontested.

How Much Does a Divorce Lawyer Cost in Sacramento?

Attorney fees in Sacramento are typically lower than in Los Angeles or San Francisco — but still significant.

Typical costs:

• Hourly rate: $250–$450

• Uncontested divorce with an attorney: $3,000–$6,000

• Contested divorce: $10,000–$25,000+

• High-asset cases: $40,000–$100,000+

Your total cost depends on conflict level, assets, and how quickly agreements are reached.

Local Divorce Lawyers in Sacramento, CA

Here are trusted Sacramento divorce lawyers from your directory:

1. Bartholomew & Wasznicky LLP

https://www.divorcepage.com

2. The Law Office of Cameron M. Fernandez

https://www.cameronfernandezlaw.com

3. Boyd Law — Sacramento Office

https://www.boydlawsacramento.com

These firms handle contested cases, custody litigation, mediation, and high-asset divorce.

More Affordable Alternatives to Hiring a Lawyer

If your Sacramento divorce is uncontested, you may not need to pay thousands for a traditional attorney.

Divorce.com offers three options:

Paperwork Only — $499

We prepare all California divorce forms based on your circumstances.

We File for You — $999

We prepare and file your documents with the Sacramento Superior Court.

Fully Guided Divorce — $1999

Work 1:1 with a divorce specialist who manages the entire process for you.

These options are ideal for couples seeking a straightforward, low-stress solution.

When You Should Choose a Lawyer Instead

You should hire a Sacramento divorce lawyer if:

• Your spouse refuses to negotiate

• There are conflicts over parenting time

• There are safety or domestic-violence concerns

• Substantial assets or multiple properties are involved

• You believe your spouse is hiding money

• Your case may go to trial

Why Divorce.com Is a Smart Choice for Sacramento Couples

• California-specific divorce forms

• Flat, predictable pricing

• Filing services available

• Expert case specialists

• Faster than traditional law firms

• Significantly more affordable for uncontested cases

Divorce.com helps Sacramento couples move forward with clarity and peace of mind.

Start Your Sacramento Divorce Today

Whether you choose a lawyer or go with an online solution, starting the process is the most important step. Divorce.com makes it easy, affordable, and streamlined for Sacramento families.