refusal to sign dissolution papers

New York State

I got married in late 2003 in the state of California with the express purpose of helping someone in taking advantage of that state's requirements for educational financial aid. At the time, the person I was marrying did not qualify for financial aid, and was a dependent of her parents. In order to change that status, and help her qualify for financial aid, I signed legal documents to marry her. We also, separately, signed an agreement (not notarized) stating that the "marriage" was an arrangement--not a true marriage.

In October 2006, we broke up. In addition, never during our time of being "married" did we share residence. Since August 2004 I have been in New York State, she has been in California. The time limit to qualify for dissolution in California is 5 years. We are coming up to that deadline in January 2009.

I have been trying to get her to sign dissolution papers, which she has stated in email that she would sign, but she's "not gotten around to it" for years now. We are soon approaching the deadline, and I am unsure what to do. Can I file for dissolution in NY State? I would like to avoid lengthy court proceedings if possible. Please help in advising me on my options in both obtaining her signature on the California dissolution papers, or getting a dissolution in NY State, or anything that might help my case.

PS
We were at the time of marriage, and continue to be, just students. We share no assets, no children, no property, nothing of value. Please advise as to anything I should be careful of. Also, do I have any grounds for annulment, considering the fact that this was just some agreed-upon arrangement to get her financial aid? I suspect she may have ulterior motives for retaining the marriage. Am I at any sort of risk? She has moved on to other relationships, as have I, and I have proof of it.What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?

[tbyte]

You committed fraud. You possibly even broke Federal laws.
Maybe you should see an attorney about this, eh?

[angel1964]

TBTYE, that is the first smart thing I have ever seen you post. Buddy you married this girl illegally. Its like marrying an illegal alien to keep them in the country. You better get a lawyer.

[tbyte]

Maybe that's the first post of mine you've read that was short enough for you to comprehend.

[angel1964]

TBTYE, no that was the first post that you actually had a good point you loser. You are such a low life. Crawl back in your hole.