Preparation
Begin the Process
Data Gathering
Negotiation & Settlement
Moving On

Onward’s Divorce Orientation

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Preparation
Begin the Process
Data Gathering
Negotiation & Settlement
Moving On

Begin the Process

The first formal step in the divorce process, where one spouse (the Petitioner or sometimes called the Plaintiff) files the required court documents and ensures the other spouse (the Respondent or sometimes called the Defendant) is properly notified according to state law.

1. Complete initial state/county court forms

2. File forms w/county court

3. Notify your Spouse

4. File proof of notification with court

Helpful Notes

  • If you and your spouse can agree to fill out and file forms together (“file jointly” or “co-petition”), it can save time and money.
  • The ways you can notify your spouse vary by state. In most states, filing can be done online or by mail, as well as in-person at your district or county court.
  • If you need or prefer to hire a lawyer, engage their services before these steps.

1. Complete initial state/county court forms

2. File forms w/county court

3. Notify your Spouse

4. File proof of notification with court

Helpful Notes

  • If you and your spouse can agree to fill out and file forms together (“file jointly” or “co-petition”), it can save time and money.
  • The ways you can notify your spouse vary by state. In most states, filing can be done online or by mail, as well as in-person at your district or county court.
  • If you need or prefer to hire a lawyer, engage their services before these steps.

If you are notified that your spouse has filed for divorce, you must review and formally respond to their filing within your state’s required timeframe, typically 20-30 days.

1. Review divorce documents given to you

2. Complete response to divorce documents
3. File response with court
4. Send a copy of response to Spouse

Helpful Notes

  • These steps only usually apply if you are NOT filing together (“filing jointly” or “co-petitioning”).
  • In most states, filing can be done online or by mail, in addition to in-person at your county court.
  • If you need or prefer to hire a lawyer, engage their services before these steps.
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