Not every marriage is a fairytale. Some come to an end for many different reasons and at different points of the marriage. While some divorce proceedings become a long, drawn-out battle involving difficult topics, other divorces can be quick and simple. If you decide to divorce your spouse, there are many issues that you and your spouse must address. These issues can be complicated and difficult. But if not, you may be able to end your marriage in a short and quick manner. An experienced Fresno divorce attorney can guide you through the process and ensure your divorce proceeds smoothly and as quickly as possible.
What Is Summary Dissolution?
What if you and your spouse are looking for a quick divorce? You might be wondering if that is even legally possible in the State of California. If the specific facts surrounding your divorce permit, a quick divorce may be possible. You can file a Joint Petition for Summary Dissolution. If your divorce qualifies, this type of divorce proceeding will not require you to appear in front of a judge. It will be a quick process where you simply file your papers and ask for your marriage to be dissolved.
How Do I Qualify for a Summary Dissolution?
To qualify for a summary dissolution, you and your spouse must meet all the following requirements:
- You must have been married for less than 5 years. The number of years you are married is determined from the date you and your spouse got married to the date you separate.
- You have no children together at any time before or after your marriage. This includes both naturally born or adopted children.
- You do not own any interest in any real property. The only exception is a lease of a residence that you both live in which satisfies the following requirements:
- The lease does not include an option to purchase
- The lease terminates within one year from the date you file your petition
- You do not owe more than $6,000 in debt since you got married (car loans do not count)
- You have less than $38,000 worth of property which you acquired during your marriage (again cars do not count)
- You both agree that neither spouse will get spousal support
- You have a signed agreement that divides all property, including debts and cars
- You meet the residency requirement:
- Either you or your spouse must have lived in California for the past six months and in the county where you are filing the petition for summary dissolution
Filing for a summary dissolution is not as easy as it sounds. In order to successfully file the petition and end your marriage it is best to consult with and hire an experienced Fresno divorce attorney to help you through the process.
Call an Experienced Fresno Divorce Attorney
If you are in the process of getting a divorce or plan on initiating one, it is important that you have a knowledgeable attorney fighting for your rights. For more information or to schedule a complimentary consultation with a Fresno divorce attorney, please call Gurjit Srai (209) 323-5558 or complete our online form.