California Legal Steps for a Divorce or Legal Separation involves a few key steps to ensure that the process is completed legally. First, the filing spouse must fill out the appropriate forms, such as the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage or Petition for Legal Separation. These forms must be filed with the county court clerk’s office. Second, the filing spouse must have the other spouse served with papers. This is usually done by a process server. Third, the responding spouse must file a response to the petition. This response must be filed within 30 days of the service of the petition. Fourth, the court will schedule a hearing to determine the issues of the case. This could include the division of assets, child custody, and spousal support. Fifth, the court will issue a judgment of dissolution or legal separation. This is the final step in the process. Types of California Legal Steps for a Divorce or Legal Separation include: 1. Uncontested Divorce/Legal Separation — This is where both parties agree to the terms and conditions of the divorce or legal separation. 2. Contested Divorce/Legal Separation — This is where one or both parties disagree with the terms and conditions of the divorce or legal separation. 3. Default Divorce/Legal Separation — This is when one or both parties fail to respond to the petition, and the court may enter a default judgment.