If you are in a domestic partnership, you may be interested in getting divorce quickly and easily through a "summary dissolution." In that case, you may not need to go to court, however, it's always in your best interests to discuss your case with a divorce attorney about how to end your domestic partnership.
Not everyone qualifies for a summary dissolution; according to the California Courts, most people have to seek a standard divorce.
When a domestic partnership is registered in California, the domestic partners are not required to meet any residency requirements. This means that you can proceed with a summary dissolution in California, even if you and your partner are now living in another state.
Please note that summary dissolutions are divorces, they are NOT the same as a legal separation.
Do we qualify for a summary dissolution?
In order for your domestic partnership to qualify for a summary dissolution, you and your domestic partner must meet all of the following requirements:
- You both desire to end your domestic partnership.
- On the date that you file your Notice of Termination of Domestic Partnership, you will not have been registered domestic partners for more than 5 years.
- No children have been born or adopted during your domestic partnership.
- Neither you, nor your partner are pregnant.
- Neither of you own any land or buildings.
- Neither of you are renting any land or buildings, except for your home, and you not in a 1-year lease.
- Since the date of your domestic partnership, you and your partner do not owe more than $6,000 in debts (not including auto loans).
- You both agree that neither of you want partner support.
- You both agree to sign a written agreement about dividing your property and debts.
It is not easy to qualify for a summary dissolution. Whether you do meet the above requirements or need to obtain a regular divorce, we invite you to reach out to a Los Angeles divorce lawyer at Claery & Hammond, LLPfor further advice and legal support.
Contact our firm today for a complimentary consultation!
