Costa Mesa Summary Dissolution Lawyer

About Our Team

Our legal team brings extensive experience handling summary dissolution cases throughout Orange County. We understand the nuances of local court procedures, the documentation required by the Orange County Superior Court, and the timelines involved.

Whether you need help drafting your property settlement agreement, reviewing your financial disclosures, or verifying that your joint petition is properly completed, the Law Offices of Lisa R. McCall is here to help make the process as smooth as possible. Our attorneys have more than four decades of combined experience and can confidently help you resolve your divorce.

What Is Summary Dissolution in California?

Summary dissolution is a simplified divorce process that was established under California Family Code §2400. Unlike a standard dissolution, which usually includes court hearings, financial disclosures, and extended timelines, a summary dissolution allows eligible couples to dissolve their marriage by filing a joint petition with the court.

The process is specifically designed for couples who meet strict qualifying criteria. It is one of the most efficient paths to divorce available for people in California. With the average California divorce costing $17,500, a summary dissolution might be a viable choice for many couples.

Understanding summary dissolution laws is critical before you decide to pursue one. California imposes the following eligibility requirements that both spouses must satisfy, including:

• The marriage must have lasted no more than five years from the date of the marriage to the date of separation.
• There are no minor children born or adopted before or during the marriage, and one spouse is not pregnant.
• Neither spouse owns real property (including a lease of one year or more).
• Unpaid debts acquired during the marriage do not exceed $7,000, excluding car loans.
• The total fair market value of community property assets is less than $57,000.
• Both spouses agree to waive spousal support and have a signed property settlement agreement.
• At least one spouse has lived in California for six months and in Orange County (or the county of the filing) for three months prior to filing.

As of early 2026, the Joint Petition for Dissolution has expanded to allow almost any couple to jointly petition for a dissolution, even if they do not meet those criteria. The new requirements under SB 1427 are that the couples provide the following information:

• The number of children born during the marriage, their ages, and dates of birth
• A list of issues that the spouses intend to resolve, such as child custody, support, spousal support, property division, etc.

This new law expands affordable dissolution to couples who previously did not meet the requirements for a summary dissolution, but do agree on how to resolve those pivotal issues.

The Mandatory Six-Month Waiting Period

Even though summary dissolution is considered the “fast track” for ending a marriage in California, it is important to understand that the process is not instantaneous. Per California law, there is a mandatory six-month waiting period from the date the Joint Position for Summary Dissolution is filed until the divorce is finalized.

During this time, either spouse maintains the right to revoke the petition if they change their mind or realize that the summary dissolution no longer fits their needs.

Our firm can monitor all timelines closely so that your status as a single person is restored at the earliest possible date. We can help you navigate this waiting period with the peace of mind that your paperwork is accurate and that no procedural errors will extend your wait beyond the statutory minimum.

How a Costa Mesa Summary Dissolution Attorney Can Help?

While summary dissolution is designed to be simpler than a traditional divorce, it is still a legal proceeding with specific filing requirements, deadlines, and court procedures. Mistakes in your paperwork or eligibility assessment can result in delays, rejection of your petition, or unintended legal consequences.

Hire a summary dissolution lawyer from our firm to carefully review your circumstances, confirm your eligibility, and handle every aspect of the filing on your behalf.

Is Summary Dissolution Right for You?

Summary dissolution is not available for everyone, and it is not always the right choice even when you qualify. For couples who have more complex financial situations, disputes over property, or concerns about future support, a traditional dissolution may provide more effective protections and options.

Attorney Lisa McCall can take the time to understand your unique circumstances and help you determine which path forward is the most appropriate to safeguard your long-term interests and provide a fair distribution of all marital assets.

The Law Offices of Lisa R. McCall – Costa Mesa Summary Dissolution Law Firm

The Law Offices of Lisa R. McCall provides dedicated and professional legal advocacy with a focus on family law, divorce, and appellate matters. Our seasoned legal team approaches every case with a balance of strength and compassion. We understand that legal challenges involving child support, custody, and property division can impact what is most important to you, your home, and your family.

Hire a Summary Dissolution Lawyer in Costa Mesa

If you are ready to take the next step, the Law Offices of Lisa R. McCall is here to help. Our Costa Mesa summary dissolution attorney can offer compassionate, knowledgeable representation for individuals navigating one of life’s most challenging transitions. We can handle summary dissolution cases with care, efficiency, and a deep commitment to our clients’ well-being.

Contact our office today to schedule a confidential consultation. We can review your eligibility, answer your questions, and help you understand your options under California’s summary dissolution laws. Whether you are just beginning to explore your options or are ready to move forward, we are here for you every step of the way.