General Steps to Getting a Dissolution or Legal Separation of Civil 2026

1. Click ‘Get Form’ to open it in the editor. Begin by reviewing the document thoroughly to understand the requirements for your dissolution or legal separation.
2. Decide how you will file: jointly with your partner in front of a Notary Public or Court Clerk, or individually. This choice affects how you complete subsequent forms.
3. File in the appropriate County where you or your partner resides. Complete the Case Information Sheet (JDF 1000), Petition (JDF 1250), and Summons (JDF 1251) if filing alone, and pay the filing fee.
4. Review any documents received from the court carefully, noting important dates such as Initial Status Conference. If filing jointly, proceed directly to Step 6.
5. If filing alone, ensure personal service is completed by a disinterested party who provides copies of all necessary documents to your partner.
6. Complete required forms including JDF 1111, JDF 1256, and JDF 1258. Ensure all forms are signed before a notary before submission.
7. Attend the Initial Status Conference if required, bringing all completed forms and documentation for review by the court.
8. If mediation is necessary due to unresolved issues, participate actively and provide proof of mediation to the court.
9. Prepare for a Contested Hearing by gathering evidence and completing the Pretrial Statement (JDF 1129) for submission prior to the hearing.
10. Once all documents are complete and filed correctly, await issuance of your Decree after fulfilling any waiting periods.

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