Today, people move around more often than they once did. It is not uncommon for a couple to live in one state, decide to divorce and one of the spouses moves to another state.
Filing for divorce from another state can be difficult because of each state’s residency requirements. Most states have a required residency of six months in order to file for divorce.
If you have recently moved and do not meet the residency requirements of your new state, you have some options:
- File in your spouse’s state – you will have to appear in that state for each court date
- Legal separation – many states waive the residency requirement when granting a legal
separation - Wait it out – You can always settle back and wait out the six-month’s residency requirement
before filing for divorce
If you or your spouse has recently moved and you’re filing for divorce, it is important to talk to a family law attorney to learn about your residency requirements and other steps in the divorce process.
Contact the Orange County family law offices of Amy M. Montes for the help you need. We will guide you through your issues so you can focus on moving forward with your life.
