Divorce Law

Dissolution

A dissolution of marriage is an action where the parties enter into an agreement to terminate their marriage. Neither party has to prove grounds to end a marriage by dissolution. This action is only started after the husband and wife have signed a separation agreement regarding all property, spousal support and any child-related issues. After jointly filing a Petition for Dissolution, a hearing will be scheduled by the court no less than 30 days but no longer than 90 days after the date of filing. At the hearing, the court will review the separation agreement, ask about the assets and liabilities and any parenting issues, and determine whether the parties understand and are satisfied with the settlement. If the court is satisfied that the agreement is fair, the parties agree and desire to end their marriage, the court will grant a dissolution and make the separation agreement an order of the court.

Divorce

While a dissolution starts with an agreement, a divorce is filed due to differences between the parties on one or more of the major issues, which include property division, spousal support and matters regarding the children. Once a divorce is filed, the court will usually issue temporary orders. Such temporary orders generally consist of restraining orders, allocation of parental rights and responsibilities, and child and/or spousal support. An experienced divorce attorney can help people decide whether to pursue a dissolution or a divorce.