Santa Barbara Uncontested Divorce Attorney

Helping You Avoid Lengthy Litigation

An uncontested divorce is the easiest, most affordable, and least stressful way to dissolve a marriage. If you and your spouse are able to agree on the terms of your divorce, you will be able to avoid the process of litigation and the additional time and expense that comes with it. At Morales Law, P.C., we help couples throughout Santa Barbara County reach amicable agreements to settle their divorce proceedings, making it a more efficient and cost-effective process.

Our Santa Barbara uncontested divorce attorney can help you finalize your uncontested divorce. Contact us online or call (805) 422-7966 for a consultation.

Why Choose an Uncontested Divorce?

Uncontested divorces are the most common type of divorce and are beneficial for couples who are able to agree on the terms of their divorce. These types of divorces are often shorter and more affordable than contested divorces, which require litigation.

There are several reasons why you might choose an uncontested divorce, including:

• Getting divorced quickly – Uncontested divorces can be finalized in as little as a few weeks, depending on the jurisdiction and the specific details of the case.
• Reducing your legal costs – Because you and your spouse will not have to go through the process of litigation, you will be able to save money on legal fees.
• Protecting your privacy – Divorces that go to trial are a matter of public record. Uncontested divorces are more private and can help you keep your personal matters confidential.
• Reducing stress – Divorces can be stressful, but uncontested divorces are less contentious and more amicable. They can help you and your spouse maintain a good relationship, which is especially important if you have children together.
• Making your own decisions – In an uncontested divorce, you and your spouse will have control over the outcome of your divorce. You will be able to make decisions together rather than having a judge make decisions for you.

Requirements for an Uncontested Divorce in California

Uncontested divorces are not an option for all couples. To file for an uncontested divorce, you and your spouse must meet the following requirements:

• Residency requirement – Either you or your spouse must have been a resident of California for at least six months before you file for divorce. You must also have been a resident of the county where you file for divorce for at least three months.
• No contested issues – You and your spouse must be able to agree on all the terms of your divorce, including property division, child custody, and child support. If you are unable to agree on any of these issues, you will have to go through the process of litigation and file for a contested divorce.

How to Get an Uncontested Divorce

The first step in getting an uncontested divorce is to file a petition for divorce with the court. Once you have filed the petition, you will need to serve your spouse with a copy of the petition and a summons. If you and your spouse are in agreement, your spouse can simply sign a waiver of service, which will allow the divorce to proceed.

After the petition has been filed and your spouse has been served, you will need to fill out a series of forms with the court. These forms will include a settlement agreement, which will outline the terms of the divorce.

The terms of your divorce will depend on the specific details of your situation, but they may include:

• How your property will be divided
• How your debts will be divided
• Whether or not spousal support will be awarded
• How much child support will be paid
• How child custody will be divided

If you and your spouse are unable to agree on the terms of your divorce, you will have to go through the process of litigation.

Once all the forms have been completed, you will need to send them to the court. The court will review the forms and, if everything is in order, will grant the divorce.

Streamlined Uncontested Divorce Services in Santa Barbara

Living in Santa Barbara, you understand our community's unique charm and challenges. At Morales Law, P.C., we are deeply familiar with the local landscape and the specific needs of our clients. We know that navigating a divorce can be particularly stressful, especially considering the local cost of living and the impact on family dynamics. Our goal is to help you achieve a smooth and amicable resolution, allowing you to move forward with your life in this beautiful coastal city.

Santa Barbara County residents can benefit from the resources provided by local government entities such as the Santa Barbara County Superior Court and the County of Santa Barbara. These institutions offer valuable information and support for those going through a divorce. While we do not partner directly with these entities, we can guide you on utilizing their resources effectively.

One of the common pain points for Santa Barbara residents is the high cost of living, which can make the financial aspects of divorce particularly daunting. An uncontested divorce can help mitigate these concerns by reducing legal fees and expediting the process. Additionally, the privacy afforded by an uncontested divorce is a significant advantage in a close-knit community like ours, where maintaining confidentiality can be crucial.

Our Morales Law, P.C. team is committed to providing personalized service that reflects our deep understanding of Santa Barbara's unique environment. We are here to help you navigate the complexities of an uncontested divorce, ensuring that you and your spouse can reach a fair and amicable agreement. Whether you live in Montecito, Goleta, or downtown Santa Barbara, we are ready to assist you in achieving a peaceful resolution.