Family Court California: What You Need to Know

If you’re dealing with a divorce, child custody, or spousal support in California, you’ll end up in family court. The process can feel confusing, but it’s not as scary as it looks. Below you’ll find the basics – how to start a case, what the court does, and tips to keep things moving smoothly.

Filing a Family Court Case

First step is filing the right paperwork. For a divorce, you’ll file a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. If you’re asking for child custody, you add a Request for Custody and Parenting Time. Spousal support requests use a Request for Support form. All these forms are available on the California Courts website or at your local courthouse.

Once the forms are filled out, you file them with the clerk and pay a filing fee (usually a few hundred dollars). If money is tight, you can ask the court to waive the fee. After filing, the court will assign a case number and a date for your first hearing.

Don’t forget to serve the other spouse or parent. That means delivering a copy of the paperwork in a way the law allows – either by a professional process server, certified mail, or a willing adult over 18. After service, you file a Proof of Service with the court so the judge knows everyone got the papers.

What Happens in the Court

Most family court matters are settled before they reach a full trial. The judge may set up a case management conference, where you and the other side talk about what you want and what the court expects. You’ll likely be asked to fill out a Financial Disclosure form – this shows the judge what each party earns, owns, and owes.

If you can’t agree on custody or support, the court may order mediation. A neutral mediator helps both sides find common ground. Mediation can save time, money, and emotional stress. If mediation fails, the case goes to a trial. At trial, each side presents evidence, calls witnesses, and argues why the judge should rule in their favor.

When the judge makes a decision, they issue a Judgment. The judgment covers division of property, child custody schedules, and support amounts. It’s a legally binding order, so you must follow it. If circumstances change – for example, a big change in income – you can ask the court to modify the order.

One practical tip: keep organized records. Save every court document, email, and payment receipt. Having a tidy file makes it easier to respond to court requests and speeds up any future modifications.

Finally, remember you don’t have to go it alone. California has many family law self‑help centers, and you can get free or low‑cost advice from legal aid groups. A short consultation with an experienced family lawyer can give you a clear roadmap and help you avoid common pitfalls.

Family court in California is designed to protect families and children while sorting out legal issues fairly. By filing the right forms, staying on top of deadlines, and being open to mediation, you can move through the process with less stress. Keep these steps in mind, and you’ll know exactly what to expect when you step into the courtroom.