The issue with divorces obtained in the Dominican Republic and validity is the issue of residency requirements.  States have residency requirements before filing for divorce. Generally 6 months.  The Dominican Republic is 24 hours I believe. You need to be aware that not all states recognize a divorce granted in the Dominican Republic. In fact, only a few states in the United States - such as Maryland and New York - recognize Dominican divorces as valid. Most states, including California, consider such divorces invalid unless the parties first establish residency in the Dominican Republic. Additionally you need to be aware that the United States Supreme Court has ruled that all unilateral foreign divorces, where only one party signs the paperwork, are invalid.  Good luck.