Dissolution of Marriage

When you hear 'dissolution of marriage,' it's the legal term for what most people simply call divorce. The word 'dissolution' means to legally dissolve — or undo — the marriage contract. When the process is complete, both spouses are legally single and free to remarry.

The process begins when one spouse files a petition with the family court and ends when the judge signs a final judgment. In between, the court addresses everything that needs to be resolved: how property gets divided, who pays support to whom, and how children will be cared for. The complexity and timeline vary greatly depending on whether the spouses agree on these issues.

In most states today, you can get a dissolution without proving anyone did anything wrong — this is called a 'no-fault' divorce. You simply state that the marriage is 'irretrievably broken' or that you have 'irreconcilable differences.' This removes blame from the process and focuses on what happens next.

Understanding that dissolution is a legal process — not just a personal decision — helps you prepare for what's ahead. Courts require specific paperwork, timelines, and agreements before they'll grant a dissolution. Knowing what the process involves helps you gather the right documents and make informed decisions.

The terms of your dissolution (property division, support, custody) become legally binding court orders. Understanding what you're agreeing to — before you sign — is essential to protecting your financial future and your relationship with your children.