About Uncontested Divorce Document Preparation
An uncontested divorce generally means the spouses are not asking the court to decide disputed issues. They may have no property or children, or they may have reached written agreement about property, debts, support and parenting matters.
Even agreed cases require accurate opening papers, disclosures and final judgment documents. A By The People office can type the selected forms from the customer’s information and prepare settlement paperwork from terms the parties provide.
California availability: This page concerns self-help document preparation for California matters. Services, procedures and pricing vary by independently owned office.
Documents and information commonly requested
The exact package depends on the customer’s selected service, instructions and local requirements. Common items may include:
- Petition and summons
- Proof of service forms
- Financial disclosures
- Marital settlement agreement
- Default or appearance forms
- Judgment package
How document preparation works
Tell the local office what has been agreed and provide complete financial and family information. The office will identify the documents the customer has selected, prepare them at the customer’s direction and explain its own filing-assistance process.
You remain responsible for reviewing the completed documents, confirming that your information and directions were entered correctly, signing where required and meeting applicable deadlines. Ask the local office which clerical filing, recording, publication, notary or service options it offers.
Common questions
What does uncontested divorce document preparation include?
The service can include opening documents, disclosures, an agreement supplied by the parties and final judgment paperwork. Exact requirements vary by location and case.
Is uncontested divorce document preparation available at every California By The People office?
No. Service availability, process, timing and pricing vary among independently owned California offices. Contact the office that would prepare your documents.
Can a By The People office tell me what choices to make?
No. The customer must select the service and provide the decisions and information used to prepare the documents. Offices do not provide legal advice or representation.
Are filing, recording, publication or service fees included?
Third-party charges are separate unless the local office specifically states otherwise in its written quote.