California county guide
Divorce in Alameda County
Where to file in Alameda County, what it costs, the local rules that apply and where to find help, checked against official court and clerk websites.
Alameda County at a glance
The local facts
Court
Superior Court of California, County of Alameda
Where
Oakland
Filing fee
$435
Residency
6 months in California, 3 in the county
Official website
Self-help
Checked against official court and clerk websites in September 2026. Fees and local rules change, so confirm with the the court before you file.
Where to file in Alameda County
Divorces in Alameda County are handled by the Superior Court of California, County of Alameda.
File in the superior court of the county where you or your spouse has lived for the last 3 months.
Each California court sets its own e-filing rules; check the court's website before you file online.
Official website: alameda.courts.ca.gov. Divorce and self-help information: family law page.
Who can file here
One spouse must have lived in California for 6 months and in the county for 3 months right before filing (Family Code 2320). Read the law.
That 3-month county rule is why it matters which county you file in: if you moved recently, you may need to file where your spouse lives, or wait.
What it costs
The Alameda County court lists the divorce filing fee as $435 (fee schedule).
California's first filing fee for a divorce is $435 statewide (January 2026 schedule). A few counties add a courthouse surcharge.
If you cannot afford the fee, file a Request to Waive Court Fees (FW-001).
Local rules and help in Alameda County
All family law papers are filed at the Hayward Hall of Justice, 24405 Amador Street, Hayward. Source.
The the court's family law page has current forms, hours and fees.
The forms you will use
California divorces use California Judicial Council forms. KindSplit's Paralegal fills in California's official forms from your case, and you check every answer before you download them. See forms and filing.
Read the full California divorce guide for waiting periods, property, custody and support.
Other California county guides
Los Angeles County · San Diego County · Orange County · Riverside County · San Bernardino County · Santa Clara County · Sacramento County · Contra Costa County · Fresno County
Straight answers
Alameda County, plain answers
Where do I file for divorce in Alameda County?
Divorces in Alameda County are handled by the Superior Court of California, County of Alameda. File in the superior court of the county where you or your spouse has lived for the last 3 months.
How much does it cost to file for divorce in Alameda County?
The clerk lists $435. California's first filing fee for a divorce is $435 statewide (January 2026 schedule). A few counties add a courthouse surcharge. If you cannot afford the fee, file a Request to Waive Court Fees (FW-001).
Do I have to live in Alameda County to file there?
One spouse must have lived in California for 6 months and in the county for 3 months right before filing (Family Code 2320). File in the superior court of the county where you or your spouse has lived for the last 3 months.
Is there help in Alameda County if I do not have a lawyer?
All family law papers are filed at the Hayward Hall of Justice, 24405 Amador Street, Hayward. The clerk's family law page lists current forms, hours and fees.
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