Divorce or dissolution of marriage is the final termination of a marriage, canceling the legal duties and responsibilities of marriage and dissolving the bonds of matrimony between married persons.  In most countries, divorce requires the sanction of a judge or other authority in a legal process.

For dissolution of marriage or legal separation in California, there are only two legal grounds.  The first is irreconcilable differences, meaning the marriage or partnership cannot be saved.  The other reason is incurable insanity which, unlike irreconcilable differences, must be proven.  Be aware that a formal judgment signed by a judge must be entered before it is final.  Any minute order from a hearing or a trial or a signed agreement without a judge's signature does not terminate the action.

In order to file your Petition for Dissolution of Marriage in California, you must make sure the Superior Court has jurisdiction over your case.  The most common way spouses are eligible to use a specific court system is by meeting the residency requirements.