Santa Barbara Joint Petition for Dissolution Lawyer

SB 1427: A New Era for Amicable Divorce in California

Breaking up is never easy, but the legal process of ending a marriage just got a lot simpler in California. As of January 1, 2026, Senate Bill 1427 has officially gone into effect, making uncontested divorces more efficient and accessible than ever before.
For couples who agree on the terms of their dissolution, SB 1427 removes several traditional legal hurdles:

• A Unified Start: Through the new Joint Petition for Dissolution (Form FL-700), both spouses file together from day one. This signals to the court—and each other—that you are working toward a mutual, non-adversarial resolution.
• No “Serving” Necessary: Because you are filing jointly, there is no need for formal service of process. This avoids the added stress, delay, and expense of having papers served on a spouse.
• Faster Results: The law eliminates the traditional 31-day waiting period typically required for a default. You can now submit your written agreement and proposed judgment immediately after filing.

Why Professional Guidance Still Matters:

While the new law streamlines the procedure, it does not change the complexity of the decisions you have to make regarding your finances, property, and children. This is where an attorney-mediator becomes a valuable asset:

1. Ensuring Legal Soundness: A joint filing is only as good as the agreement behind it. We help you draft a Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA) that clearly defines every detail—from retirement accounts to tax implications—to prevent future litigation.
2. Facilitating “Sticky” Points: Even in amicable divorces, disagreements can arise. As neutral third parties, we help you navigate these points fairly, ensuring both voices are heard and the final agreement is truly mutual.
3. Protecting Your Children’s Interests: At Drury Pullen, we also provide Minor’s Counsel services. This role serves as an independent voice for your children, dedicated to protecting their health, safety, and welfare while fostering a positive co-parenting relationship for the future.
4. Peace of Mind: An attorney-led process ensures that all required disclosures are completed correctly and that your judgment meets strict court standards, preventing unnecessary delays caused by rejected paperwork.

Ready to start your next chapter?

Our legal services combine the efficiency of the new SB 1427 process with expert oversight. Contact us today to see how we can help you achieve a faster, more civilized resolution.