What are Financial Disclosures in Divorce?

What is a Declaration of Disclosure?
California divorce law is designed to protect the transparent exchange of financial information in a divorce.  Thus, both parties must exchange full financial disclosures before a divorce can be finalized.

Will my tax returns, pay stubs, and bank accounts be public record?
Generally, no.  California law requires that each party serve his or her declarations on the other party but that these declarations are not filed with the Court.  Family Code Section 2104.  While the declarations do not need to be filed, the Court does require a proof of service that the declarations have been exchanged. 

When do I need to give the other side my financial documents?
California law requires that parties exchange financial documents within 60 days of a Petition or Response. However, this requirement can be waived by mutual agreement of the Parties.