Short answer: FL-100 tells you who started the case, which kind of case they selected and the issues they want included in the eventual judgment. It is a request—not a ruling—and it does not mean the marriage is already over.
What does FL-100 tell you?
The form is organized around the basic shape of the case. Read the completed version—not a blank online copy—and note:
- Case type. Divorce, legal separation or annulment.
- People and dates. The petitioner, respondent, marriage date and claimed separation date.
- Children. Whether the parties have minor children together and whether child-related orders are requested.
- Property and debts. How the petitioner characterizes property or debts and what they ask the court to address.
- Support and other requests. The boxes checked on pages 2–3 show issues the petitioner wants the court to decide.
What does the Petition not prove?
FL-100 records one party’s statements and requests. By itself, it does not prove that:
- every statement or date is correct;
- the court agrees with the requested property, support or custody outcome;
- the other party was properly served;
- a Response was or was not filed; or
- a judgment or temporary order has been entered.
Those are separate facts supported by separate records. CourtAhead keeps them separate because a filed allegation, proof of service and signed order do different jobs.
What should you check if you received FL-100?
- Look for FL-110. A standard case-start packet usually includes the family-law Summons.
- Record how and when the packet arrived. Do not infer the service date from the Petition’s filing date.
- Compare every attachment. Children, property and additional requests can add forms or pages.
- Check for a separate FL-300. A Request for Order can create a hearing and a different response workflow.
- Verify court and case information. Note the county, courthouse, case number and any file stamp visible on your copy.
Not sure what else came in the packet?
Select the form numbers you can see and get a plain-language packet map without guessing about filing or service status.
What if you are preparing FL-100?
California Courts says most people starting a standard divorce use both FL-100 and FL-110. Extra forms may apply when the parties have children, a fee waiver is requested, temporary orders are needed or a local court requires additional forms.
Use the official step-by-step starting-divorce guide and check your court’s local requirements. A completed form saved on your computer is not filed until the court accepts it.