The fact is that California is a no-fault state and you do not need your spouse’s signature to get a divorce. If your spouse fails to file and serve you with a response, you can file a request for default against your spouse after 30 days. You can also file a proposed judgment for the court to approve.

What makes a divorce official?

A divorce decree is the final court document in a divorce. Legally speaking, a divorce isn’t final until you’ve signed your divorce decree, sometimes called a “divorce judgment” or “judgment for dissolution of marriage” depending on which state you reside, and a judge has rendered the seal of approval.

What happens if my husband refuses to sign divorce papers?

Your husband will then have to be served with the divorce petition and a court appearance will be scheduled. If he still refuses to sign, your case will proceed as a contested divorce and he will have to explain to the judge why he won’t consent to the divorce.

Can you get engaged in the middle of a divorce?

While there are no legal consequences to getting engaged while your divorce is taking place, be aware of how your spouse might react, and how that may in turn complicate your divorce. I’m in the middle of a divorce but have already fallen in love with somebody else.

When do you have to sign divorce papers?

You only sign papers if you are agreeing to what your spouse is asking for or agreeing to a settlement. If you go through a court proceeding, you appear in person and the judge makes the decision. Eva’s Question: My ex told me his lawyer drew up some papers to finalize our divorce and asked if I would sign them.

Can you date a man who is still in the process of divorce?

But you are correct in proceeding with a sense of caution. Not so much because he’s too busy with lawyers. Not because he listed himself as divorced but is really separated. But, most likely, because he’s still emotionally reeling from the death of his relationship.