5 Essential Facts About Form Fl-100

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The form FL-100, also known as the "Petition— Marriage/Domestic Partnership" form, is a crucial document in the California court system. It is used to initiate a divorce or domestic partnership dissolution proceeding. If you are considering filing for divorce or dissolution of a domestic partnership in California, it is essential to understand the basics of the FL-100 form. Here are five essential facts about the FL-100 form that you need to know.

What is the FL-100 Form?

The FL-100 form is a petition filed by one spouse or domestic partner to initiate a divorce or dissolution proceeding in California. The form is used to provide the court with basic information about the marriage or domestic partnership, including the names of the parties, the date of marriage or registration of the domestic partnership, and the grounds for the divorce or dissolution.

What Information is Required on the FL-100 Form?

The FL-100 form requires the following information:

• The names and addresses of the parties
• The date of marriage or registration of the domestic partnership
• The grounds for the divorce or dissolution (e.g., irreconcilable differences, domestic violence)
• A statement of the relief sought (e.g., dissolution of the marriage, division of property)
• A declaration that the parties have been residents of California for at least six months and of the county where the petition is filed for at least three months

How to File the FL-100 Form

To file the FL-100 form, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Fill out the form: You can obtain the FL-100 form from the California courts website or from your local court clerk's office. Fill out the form completely and accurately, making sure to include all required information.
2. Sign the form: You will need to sign the form in front of a notary public.
3. File the form: Take the signed form to your local court clerk's office and file it with the court. You will need to pay a filing fee, which varies depending on the county.
4. Serve the other party: After filing the form, you will need to serve the other party with a copy of the petition and a summons.

What Happens After Filing the FL-100 Form?

After filing the FL-100 form, the court will process the petition and issue a summons. The summons will be served on the other party, who will then have 30 days to respond to the petition. If the other party does not respond, you may be able to proceed with the divorce or dissolution by default. If the other party does respond, the case will proceed to the next stage, which may include mediation, discovery, and trial.

Do I Need an Attorney to File the FL-100 Form?

While it is possible to file the FL-100 form without an attorney, it is highly recommended that you seek the advice of a qualified family law attorney. An attorney can help you navigate the complex process of divorce or dissolution and ensure that your rights are protected.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the FL-100 form is a critical document in the California court system, used to initiate a divorce or dissolution proceeding. Understanding the basics of the FL-100 form is essential for anyone considering filing for divorce or dissolution in California. By following the steps outlined above and seeking the advice of a qualified family law attorney, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that the process proceeds smoothly.

We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of the FL-100 form and its role in the California court system. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.