Most states in 2021 are “no fault” divorce states. That means that if one spouse wants to terminate the marriage, the other spouse cannot prevent him or her from doing so. It also means that when a judge decides the underlying issues, his or her determination will not be based on who s/he believes to have caused the break-up, or, put differently, whose conduct the judge believes to have been more culpable. In other words, a judge will not consider issues such as infidelity or undesirable behavior in the final judgment. This also means that absent certain circumstances, the marital estate or the property that has been purchased, accumulated or improved during the marriage, will be divided equally, irrespective of fault. If you have been served divorce papers, or are considering separating or filing for divorce please contact our nationwide team of divorce lawyers for a complimentary case analysis. They will explain your rights to you and fight vigorously to protect them, your financial interests and your children. You can also visit @divorcelawyers to begin your free case examination.
- Common Grounds For Divorce
- Irreconcilable differences, Incurable insanity:
There are two grounds for divorce in most states. These are irreconcilable differences and incurable insanity. Incurable insanity is a medical condition that must be substantiated by a doctor, because this condition is difficult to prove. Hence, very few divorces are based on incurable insanity. Accordingly, the most common ground for dissolution of marriage is irreconcilable differences. Therefore, since divorces are not based on fault, a court will not inquire into the reasons why one party wants a divorce. - Residency Requirements:
- Six months is the norm in most states: In order to file for dissolution of marriage, a party must have resided in the state for a minimum of six (6) months, and in the same county for a minimum of three (3) months. People who don’t meet this requirement are not eligible to file for divorce in some cases.
- Legal Separation- an alternative when residency requirements are not met:
Depending upon the circumstances, a party may opt to file for legal separation until s/he meets the residency requirement. When parties are legally separated, their property is divided and support issues are determined. Also, property acquired by either party, after they’ve been legally separated, will no longer be classified as community property. It will be the separate property of the acquiring spouse. However, the parties will continue to remain legally married until the marriage is dissolved. In other words, the marital status will not be changed. Since the marital status is not terminated, most parties prefer to wait until they meet their states residency requirements, so that they can file for dissolution of marriage. However, if a party elects to file for legal separation, the action may be converted into a dissolution action once the residency requirements are met.
- Irreconcilable differences, Incurable insanity:
Legal separation is a viable option for clients who anticipate that they will have to leave the state, or the country, for an extended period of time.
Division of Assets Most states are Community Property State. That means that, absent certain exceptions, all property that is acquired or improved during marriage will be divided equally amongst the parties when the marriage is dissolved. Property that was inherited or acquired before marriage, will continue to be the separate property of the acquiring spouse. However, the community may be entitled to a credit for value enhancing improvements that were made to a spouses separate property while the parties were married. The rules regarding property division, and the exceptions thereto, can get complicated. Therefore, it is best to retain an attorney who is experienced in property valuation in order to guide you through this process, and to get you the best deal possible under existing law. Division of property can affect your rights in real estate, stock plans, retirement benefits, business ownership interests, and other investments.
Settlement vs. Litigation
Divorce can be an emotionally draining time for all concerned. It is often said that people going through a divorce are good people who are at their worst. This can also be a financially draining time for the parties. Thus it is always in everyone’s best interest to try to negotiate an agreement with regards to major issues such as custody, support, and division of property. If the parties can settle most of the major issues, they can save a great deal of money and emotional energy. They also maintain control over the matter, which is usually better than leaving the final decision to an outsider, such as a judge.
In some instances, I have been able to settle all of the issues without proceeding to trial. In fact, if the parties are able to reach an agreement, the divorced can be finalized simply by filing the required paperwork. The parties may never even need to go to court. In situations where the parties are unable to reach a settlement, I use my litigation skills and experience to vigorously represent my clients at trial.