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Divorce in California is a no-fault process, meaning either spouse can file without having to prove wrongdoing. But while starting a divorce doesn’t require cooperation, finishing it can become difficult when one party refuses to participate in good faith.
In Los Angeles and throughout California, our experienced family law attorneys at Land Legal Group help clients navigate what’s commonly referred to as “stonewalling”—when one spouse deliberately slows, complicates, or avoids the divorce process.
If your spouse is dragging their feet, refusing to disclose financial information, or simply not responding to filings, there are legal remedies available to keep your case moving forward.
Understanding Divorce Delays in California
Delays can take many forms, and they’re not always immediately apparent.
In some cases, the resisting spouse simply refuses to respond to the divorce petition. In others, they may participate in early stages but avoid producing documents, cancel depositions, or ignore court deadlines. Some even use delay tactics as leverage—hoping to exhaust the other spouse emotionally or financially.
Common examples include:
- Failing to respond to service of process or ignoring it.
- Refusing to submit required financial disclosures.
- Withdrawing agreements at the last minute.
- Requesting unnecessary continuances.
- Failing to appear at scheduled hearings or mediation sessions.
While frustration is natural in these situations, California law provides tools to protect your interests and facilitate a smooth divorce process.
Legal Remedies When a Spouse Is Stonewalling
The California Family Code—and the court system—provide several pathways to move forward despite obstruction.
Here’s how we help clients break the stalemate:
- Request a Default Judgment
If your spouse was served correctly and fails to respond within 30 days, you can request a default. The court may proceed without their input, and you may be granted what you asked for in your petition, including custody, support, and property division.
- Motion to Compel Disclosure or Discovery
If your spouse refuses to provide financial information or answer questions during discovery, your attorney can file a motion to compel. The court may order compliance and impose sanctions or fines if your spouse continues to resist.
- Request for Order (RFO)
An RFO can be used to schedule a hearing on specific issues, such as temporary support, custody, or access to joint assets, while the larger case continues. This reduces the incentive for the delaying party to avoid negotiation.
- Imposition of Attorney’s Fees
Courts may order the stalling spouse to pay your legal fees if their conduct is found to be delaying the process unreasonably. This discourages frivolous delays and evens the playing field.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait for Cooperation
Delays in divorce can have real consequences—not just emotionally, but legally and financially.
You may be blocked from accessing marital assets, face continued uncertainty over custody arrangements, or lose momentum in the property division process. At Land Legal Group, our experienced Los Angeles divorce attorneys know how to recognize and respond to delay tactics swiftly and strategically.
You don’t have to wait for your spouse to “play fair.” California family courts are designed to provide fairness and finality, even when one party refuses to cooperate.
Ready to Move Forward?
If your divorce has stalled because your spouse is dragging their feet, you have options. At Land Legal Group, our seasoned Los Angeles County family law attorneys will advocate for your rights and use every legal tool available to keep your case on track.
Call us today at (310) 552-3500 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation and take the next step toward the resolution you deserve.
Related Links:
- What Can I Do If My Spouse Is Not Responding To Divorce Papers In California?
- Leading Signs of a High-Conflict Divorce (and Why You’re Going to Need an Attorney)
- What Can I Do About My Ex Violating Our California Child Custody Agreement?
- Spouse Drained Joint Account Before Divorce? Here’s What to Do
