What’s Changing? A Breakdown of Key Updates
Streamlined Divorce Procedure (SB 1427)
• Effective January 1, 2026, SB 1427 amends Family Code §§ 2330–2331 and § 2342.5, enabling spouses to file a joint petition for dissolution or legal separation. The petition is deemed served on both parties and allows mutual court appearances. Revocation occurs if one spouse files an amended petition or response.
[Read the bill text and Legislative Counsel analysis].
Special‑Needs Trusts for Child Support (AB 2397)
• Chaptered June 26, 2024, AB 2397 amends Family Code § 3910, giving courts the explicit authority to direct child support for disabled children into a special‑needs trust (SNT) that complies with legal eligibility standards.
[View statutory text and legislative digest]
Expanded Filing Jurisdiction for Protective Orders (SB 554)
• Signed September 27, 2024, SB 554 amends Code of Civil Procedure § 527.6 and Family Code § 6301, allowing survivors to file restraining orders in California Superior Courts—including jurisdictions where the respondent lives, the abuse occurred, or where the petitioner resides or is temporarily located. Residency in California is no longer required.
[See chaptered text and advisory committee memo]Leginfo+15LegiScan+15California Courts+15
Firearms & Relinquishment in Protective Orders (SB 899)
• Effective January 1, 2026, SB 899 revises protective order procedures:
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Courts must inform restrained persons how to relinquish firearms/ammo and verify compliance.
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Violations must be reported to the prosecutor unless compliance is proven.
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Courts can schedule review hearings if there’s evidence of firearm possession.
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The bill also authorizes search warrants when non‑compliance is suspected and introduces use immunity if the respondent invokes the Fifth Amendment.
[Read the amended text and Legislative Counsel’s digest]
Arbitration & Mediation Reform (SB 940)
• Effective January 1, 2025, SB 940 introduces significant changes to California consumer arbitration and mediation:
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Affiliates can no longer mandate out‑of‑state arbitration; required discovery—including depositions—is allowed (with arbitrator’s permission) as if the matter were in a superior court.
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Consumers can opt for small‑claims court even if contracts mandate arbitration.
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The California State Bar oversees a voluntary certification program for mediators and arbitrators.
[Explore the bill summary]
📞 Have questions about these new California family law changes?
- Our team is here to help you understand how these reforms might impact your case.
- Contact Cullen Family Law Group today to schedule your confidential consultation.