A waiver of rights form is a document used to record that a person understands and voluntarily gives up particular legal rights. It should identify the rights involved and the effect of giving them up. Signing a waiver is more than acknowledging receipt of a document.

In California Family Law

There is no single waiver form for every family law issue. The form depends on the right and the type of case. Examples include:

• Parentage: The Advisement and Waiver of Rights Regarding Determination of Parental Relationship (FL-235) is used when the parties agree to a judgment establishing parentage. It records their understanding and waiver of rights associated with having the court decide the issue.
• Financial disclosure: Spouses may use the Stipulation and Waiver of Final Declaration of Disclosure (FL-144) if the requirements of Family Code section 2105 are met. This does not excuse them from exchanging required financial information or allow them to hide assets. They must confirm that they have fulfilled their disclosure duties.

A waiver should be read for its specific effect. Agreeing to waive one requirement does not mean giving up every right in the case.