If you’re going through a divorce in California, chances are you’ll face “discovery”—the formal process where both sides gather information about finances, assets, and more. This phase can be time-consuming and stressful, but there’s good news: you can make it faster, easier, and less expensive if you know how to help your attorney respond to discovery in a California divorce.
Here are practical, actionable tips that every client should know.
Respond Quickly
Discovery responses are usually due within 30 days. The clock starts ticking as soon as the opposing party serves the request—not when you feel ready to deal with it. If your attorney doesn’t have enough time to respond, it could waive objections or require a you to pay for a motion for an extension.
What you can do:
-
Even before your receive requests, make sure you know your passwords for all financial accounts so that you’ll be able to access the information quickly and easily when the requests come in.
-
Check in regularly so you’re aware of pending deadlines.
Source: California Courts – Discovery in Family Law
Be Honest and Specific
Your attorney can only protect you if your responses are accurate. Guessing, hiding details, or providing vague answers can backfire—resulting in motions to compel, sanctions, or loss of credibility in court.
What you can do:
-
If you don’t know the answer, say so. Your lawyer can help you frame it properly.
-
Don’t try to “sound legal”—just be truthful and specific.
Source: SacLaw – Responding to Interrogatories
Organize Your Documents
Discovery often includes requests for documents—like bank statements, tax returns, or credit card records. If you dump a pile of papers on your attorney’s desk or send 50 screenshots with no labels, it takes time to sort through—and you may get billed for every minute.
What you can do:
-
Label files clearly: “Wells Fargo – Joint Checking – Jan–Mar 2024”
-
Combine PDF files by account or category
-
Use sticky notes or short memos to explain unclear transactions
- Use ChatGPT or other AI to help you create summary charts for your attorney of the information that is being provided.
Share What You’re Worried About
Discovery isn’t just about answering—your attorney also needs to know what to request from your ex. If there’s a hidden account, a mystery loan, or an overvalued asset, your input could be the key to uncovering it.
What you can do:
-
Share your concerns about what might be missing
-
Point out any inconsistencies in your ex’s financial disclosures
-
Let your lawyer know if something “feels off”
Return Signed Verifications Promptly
Your written responses must be signed under penalty of perjury. If you delay signing or reviewing them, your attorney can’t finalize the response—leaving your side exposed to procedural penalties. Even if your attorney prepares the responses, you must personally sign the verification for any answers provided under oath. Your attorney can sign the objections, but only you can verify the actual responses, as required by California Code of Civil Procedure § 2030.250.
What you can do:
-
Review your responses as soon as they’re ready
-
Flag any factual errors and return the signed verification without delay
Source: CCP § 2030.250
Communicate Clearly
Attorneys are juggling tight deadlines and complex issues. The clearer your communication, the better—and faster—they can help you.
What you can do:
-
Use bullet points or numbered lists if replying to multiple questions
-
Keep your messages concise and organized
-
Don’t bury key info in long emails—lead with what matters
Trust the Legal Strategy
It’s natural to want to push back on intrusive questions. But discovery responses must comply with the law—even when they feel personal. Your attorney can object where it’s legally appropriate—but trying to “hide the ball” can backfire.
What you can do:
-
Let your attorney decide which objections are legally valid
-
Don’t demand that your lawyer fight every question—focus on the big picture
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to help your attorney respond to discovery in a California divorce will save you time, money, and stress. When you stay organized, communicate clearly, and respond quickly, your attorney can focus on what matters most: getting you the best possible outcome.
Need experienced help navigating divorce and discovery? The team at the Law Offices of David Knecht is here to guide you every step of the way. Call us at (707) 451-4502 to schedule your consultation.
