Divorce and dissolution of marriage in Ohio are two options for married couples can choose from when they want to end their marriage. Whether married couples choose dissolution of marriage over divorce depend on a variety of factors such as if both couples want to end the marriage.
Dissolution of Marriage Means the End of the Marriage is No One’s Fault
Dissolution of marriage is also considered a no fault divorce. This means a married couple wants to end their marriage, but no one did anything wrong. In other words, you and your spouse agree to divorce, but neither of you cheated or were cruel. For instance, you or your spouse may explain to the divorce judge that there were irreconcilable differences or incompatibility. Also, when spouses file the dissolution of marriage action, they agree on all terms such as custody, division of property and debts associated with ending the marriage.
Divorce Means That One Spouse is the Cause for the End of the Marriage
The second option in Ohio is divorce. A divorce generally occurs when one spouse wants to end the marriage and the other doesn’t or there some conflict over property or custody. As of 2010, there are approximately 11 reasons for a spouse to file for divorce. Let’s say you want a divorce. You may file for divorce based on adultery, fraud, cruelty and bigamy. Other reasons are that you and your spouse have lived apart for more than a year or habitual drunkenness.
A Divorce Can Become Dissolution of Marriage in Ohio
At any time, according to the Ohio Revise Code, a divorce action can be converted into the dissolution of marriage action. Let’s say you file for divorce because of fraud and your spouse contest it, but sometime during the divorce proceedings your spouse agrees to the divorce or terms of the divorce. Then you and your spouse can then file a motion to have the existing divorce action to become the dissolution of marriage. There is no additional cost or filing fees to convert the divorce into the dissolution of marriage action.
Seek Legal Help about Divorce and Dissolution of Marriage (Ohio)
Ending a marriage is never easy. So, it’s in your best interest to consult a lawyer specializing in divorce and dissolution of marriage. The divorce lawyer will advise you which divorce option is best and file the required paperwork.
