Divorce in Modesto is a forms-based practice for attorneys. The family courts in California rely upon Judicial Council forms to standardize filings and process the heavy volume of cases in family court. Fortunately for self-represented parties, this standardization using Judicial Council forms makes family court more accessible. To help self-represented parties filing divorce in Modesto this page contains links to the most frequently used family law forms in Stanislaus County.
Note – always use free local resources like the Stanislaus County Self-Help Center and Family Law Facilitator’s Office if you’re preparing your own paperwork. These local resources can review your forms for completeness and offer some procedural guidance. Better yet, if you can afford to hire a divorce attorney for a flat fee to prepare your paperwork you won’t have to solely rely on these self-help resources or draft your own forms.
Dissolution, Legal Separation and Nullity
This 52-page Dissolution, Legal Separation, and Nullity form packet is the first step to filing a divorce in Modesto. (That is if you’re not hiring a family law attorney). The forms packet will walk the self-represented party through the Summons, Petition for Dissolution, UCCJEA if there are minor children, and related forms for the next steps. If you’ve been served with divorce papers this packet will also help you file a response.
Request For Order Without Temporary Emergency Orders
This 39-page Request for Order Without Temporary Emergency Orders is another frequently used packet that helps self-represented parties request a hearing and court order or to request a change to an existing order. The request for order can be for custody, visitation, spousal support, child support, attorney fees, and other issues. Do not use this form before a Petition has been filed. Remember, it’s always advisable to use free local resources like the Self-Help Center or Family Law Facilitator’s Office before filing forms in family court.
Note – if you need to file a Request for Order With Temporary Orders use this packet and speak with the self-help center or family law facilitator’s office.
Stipulation and Order for Custody and/or Visitation of Children Packet
Parties can agree on custody and visitation. This 14-page Stanislaus County family law packet titled “Stipulation and Order for Custody and/or Visitation of Children Packet” will help parties turn their own custody and visitation agreement into a court order. Before entering into a stipulation for custody or visitation it’s important to learn about your rights and the substantive law. To learn more about Calfornia’s child custody and visitation laws contact a local attorney or self-help resources. Child custody agreements can have an impact on child support and other family law issues.
