There is no particular advantage to winning the race to the courthouse. It is also possible, if both parties agree to all the terms, to have one person file and obtain an uncontested divorce. The law provides that it takes six months from the date the other person is served with the divorce papers. Often issues can be resolved sooner, and the parties sign an agreement rather quickly. This agreement is entered with the court in the form of a judgment.
Some divorces go on for years.
If one party claims such differences, the divorce will most likely be granted. It does not matter who did what to whom. The law will divide up the community property in an equitable manner without any fault-finding or blame. It is possible for some people to obtain their own divorce. If you do want to represent yourself, you may seek the assistance of the Family Law Facilitator located on the sixth floor of the Family Law Courthouse in Orange.