Homepage Attorney-Approved Divorce Settlement Agreement Document Free Divorce Settlement Agreement Template for the State of California

Form Breakdown

Fact Name Description
Purpose The California Divorce Settlement Agreement form outlines the terms agreed upon by both spouses regarding property division, child custody, and support obligations.
Governing Law This form is governed by the California Family Code, specifically sections related to divorce and marital dissolution.
Filing Requirement Both parties must sign the agreement, and it should be filed with the court as part of the divorce proceedings.
Modification Once finalized, the terms of the agreement can be modified only by mutual consent of both parties or through a court order.

Sample - California Divorce Settlement Agreement Form

California Divorce Settlement Agreement Template

This Divorce Settlement Agreement (“Agreement”) is made and entered into on this ___ day of __________, 20___, by and between:

Party A: ______________________________, residing at ______________________________.

Party B: ______________________________, residing at ______________________________.

Collectively referred to as “the Parties.” This Agreement is intended to settle all issues related to the dissolution of marriage pursuant to California Family Code Sections 2100-2329.

Recitals

The Parties were married on this ___ day of __________, 20___, in the City of __________, State of California. They have decided to dissolve their marriage amicably and have reached a mutual agreement on the division of their assets, debts, custody of children, spousal support, and any other relevant matters.

Terms of the Agreement

  1. Division of Property
    • Party A will receive the following property: _________________________________________________________.
    • Party B will receive the following property: _________________________________________________________.
    • The Parties agree to sell the following property and split the proceeds: ____________________________________.
  2. Debt Responsibility
    • Party A shall be responsible for the following debts: _________________________________________________.
    • Party B shall be responsible for the following debts: _________________________________________________.
  3. Child Custody and Support
    • Children’s Names: ____________________________________________________________________________.
    • The Parties agree to the following custody arrangement: ____________________________________________.
    • Child support will be paid by _______________ in the amount of $___________ per month.
  4. Spousal Support
    • Party A will pay Party B spousal support in the amount of $__________ per month for a period of __________ months.
    • Party B will not request spousal support from Party A.

General Provisions

This Agreement constitutes the entire understanding between the Parties regarding the matters addressed herein. Any modifications to this Agreement must be in writing and signed by both Parties.

The Parties acknowledge that they have entered into this Agreement voluntarily and with a full understanding of its terms. They affirm that they have had the opportunity to seek independent legal counsel.

Signatures

In witness whereof, the Parties have executed this Divorce Settlement Agreement as of the date first above written.

__________________________
Party A Signature

__________________________
Party B Signature

__________________________
Date

Common mistakes

Filling out the California Divorce Settlement Agreement form can be a daunting task. Many individuals encounter pitfalls that can complicate the divorce process. One common mistake is failing to provide complete information. Each section of the form requires specific details, and leaving any area blank can lead to delays or even legal complications.

Another frequent error is misunderstanding the difference between community and separate property. Many people mistakenly categorize assets that are considered community property as separate. This misclassification can significantly impact the division of assets and debts, leading to disputes that could have been avoided.

Individuals often overlook the importance of accurately documenting debts. When filling out the form, it’s crucial to list all debts associated with the marriage. Neglecting to do so can result in one party being held responsible for debts they were unaware of, creating financial strain post-divorce.

Additionally, some people fail to consider the tax implications of their settlement. For instance, the division of certain assets may have tax consequences that could affect both parties. Understanding how these implications work is essential for making informed decisions that will benefit both individuals in the long run.

Another common mistake is not addressing spousal support adequately. Parties may either overlook the necessity for support or fail to specify the amount and duration. This lack of clarity can lead to confusion and potential conflict after the divorce is finalized.

Moreover, many individuals do not account for future changes in circumstances. Life events such as job loss or health issues can alter financial situations. Including provisions for modifications in the settlement agreement can provide flexibility and reduce future disputes.

Some people underestimate the importance of legal advice. While it may be tempting to fill out the form independently, consulting with a legal professional can help clarify complex issues and ensure that the agreement is fair and enforceable.

Another mistake is neglecting to properly date and sign the document. A signed and dated agreement is essential for it to be valid. Without these crucial elements, the agreement may be deemed unenforceable, leading to further complications.

Finally, individuals often fail to keep copies of the completed agreement. Retaining a copy is vital for both parties to reference in the future. Without a record, misunderstandings can arise, potentially leading to disputes that could have been easily avoided.

In summary, filling out the California Divorce Settlement Agreement form requires careful attention to detail. By avoiding these common mistakes, individuals can navigate the divorce process more smoothly and set the stage for a more amicable resolution.