Divorced in LA: When do I file the fee waiver?

[totaltossout]

California, LA.

The good news: This is not a messy divorce. We split everything (Which was not much) down the middle. There's no animosity. I haven't seen her in about a year, but emails are cordial.

So, I'd like to get the formal divorce process moving. I got one of those DIY Divorce books which was super helpful, but I have a question. I am a totally broke graduate student, so I'd like to file for the Fee Waiver. I think I'm a good candidate- I make about $250 a month and made a total of $6k last year. The rest is all loans.

However, do I file the Fee Waiver at the same time I file the Summons & Petition or do I need to file the Fee Waiver and see if its accepted BEFORE I file the Summons & Petition?

 

[Zigner]

You would file it concurrently.

Just a heads-up...with the current state of financial affairs, your request will effectively be a deferral, not a waiver. The court will almost definitely expect you to pay, even if it's through payments.

 

[Isis1]

You would file it concurrently.

Just a heads-up...with the current state of financial affairs, your request will effectively be a deferral, not a waiver. The court will almost definitely expect you to pay, even if it's through payments.

this is definitely true last time i went to court. was ordered to pay a percentage of the fee.

and good LAWRD! how do you survive on $250 a month in Los Angeles?