If the respondent does not serve disclosures, the petitioner can still finish the case without them. Considering filing a partition action?Understand the process and how a real estate attorney can help. Discover how to file for divorce in San Diego stress-free. Follow our clear instructions for a smooth process. In California, parties to a divorce must "lay all their cards on the table," so to speak, regarding all of their assets and debts. Step 1: Fill Out And File The Divorce Forms. The first person to file divorce papers with the court is called the petitioner. Below are some frequently asked questions and answers about divorce law in San Diego, click on the following areas for more information. There are forms (known as financial disclosures) that both spouses should fill out and exchange.