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Finalize your divorce

To finish your divorce or legal separation, you must turn in your final court forms.

 

If you have a court order or a written agreement, you must submit that too.

 

The court reviews your forms to make sure nothing is missing and there are no mistakes. If everything is correct, the judge signs your Judgment.

 

If you asked for a divorce, the Judgment will state the exact date your marriage or domestic partnership ends.

 

⚠️ Do not follow these steps if you're filed a joint petition for divorce or legal separation. If you filed a joint petition, follow these instructions instead:

The steps you need to take and forms you need to fill out vary a bit depending on:

  • If there's a default 
  • If you have a written agreement 
  • If your final orders address child custody or child support

Answer 2 questions and get the right instructions for finishing your divorce based on your situation. 

Get instructions to finish your divorce

At a glance

The process for finalizing a divorce

These are the general steps to finish your divorce whether or not you have a default, an agreement, or had a trial.

  • Fill out forms

    Fill out the final order to end your marriage (a Judgment) along with other forms. 

  • Submit forms to the clerk

    Make copies of the forms and prepare return envelopes. Mail or bring the forms and envelopes to the court clerk.

  • Wait

    A judge must review your forms. If everything is correct, the judge will sign.

  • Receive signed judgment

    You will receive the signed judgment in the mail or pick it up at the court.

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