Divorce Basics

Uncontested Divorce FAQ

Get answers to common questions about uncontested divorce, including how much it will cost, how long it will take, and whether you're a good candidate for this simple and quick way of getting divorced..

What Is a Dissolution of Marriage?

A dissolution of marriage is almost always the same thing as divorce. Learn about the rare exceptions.

What Is a Divorce Settlement Agreement?

A divorce settlement agreement is a written document that goes by many names, depending on where you live. It can be referred to as any of the following:

No-Fault vs. Fault Divorce

Learn the differences between fault and no-fault divorces and which path might be right for you.

Basic Divorce Residency Requirements in Your State

A complete guide to the residency requirements for divorce in all 50 states and D.C.

Divorces and Finances: Does the Separation Date Affect Spouses' Property Rights?

In every divorce, there's a date after which property one spouse acquires is no longer considered marital property. Learn how courts decide in a divorce when property becomes a spouse's separate property.

What Is Pro Se Divorce?

If you want to file a “pro se” divorce—in other words, represent yourself—you can. But is it a good idea to get divorced without a lawyer?

Marital Settlement Agreements

Learn about marital settlement agreements, what they can resolve and how they're enforced.

How to Get a Cheap Divorce

Spending thousands of dollars on your divorce isn’t required. Here are some options for getting divorced on a budget.

Same-Sex Divorce: Everything You Need to Know

Married gay couples have the same right to get divorced as straight couples. But they might face particular complications, including issues around parental and property rights..

The Complete Divorce Guide for Stay-at-Home Moms

Stay-at-home parents face unique challenges during a divorce. Find out how to prepare for the legal, financial, and personal consequences of divorce as a stay-at-home mom or dad.

Sexless Marriage and Divorce

If you’re in a marriage without physical intimacy, it can help to learn the possible causes, what you can do to try to save your relationship, and—if those efforts don’t work—whether the lack of sex can be grounds for divorce.

6 Strategies for Surviving a High-Conflict Divorce

Signs of a high-conflict divorce include bullying, blaming, and demanding behavior from one or both spouses. Get advice from a divorce coach on how to de-escalate arguments and minimize the fallout.

How Much Does a Divorce Cost?

A real-world guide to typical divorce costs, the factors that make some divorces more expensive than others, and what you can do to lower the cost of your own divorce.

The Essential Divorce Checklist: 10 Steps to Prepare for Your Divorce

Without question, going through a divorce can be an emotional and challenging experience. Whether you're filing for divorce or your spouse surprised you with the request, a divorce checklist can help you get through this difficult time.

Top 10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Divorce Attorney

Choosing the right divorce lawyer isn’t just about who picks up the phone first—it’s about finding someone with the right expertise for your unique case. Here's what to ask before you commit.

Do-It-Yourself Divorce: Top Ten Tips

Some tips for representing yourself in your divorce.

Ten Things To Do If Divorce Is Imminent

If you’re convinced that your marriage is irretrievably broken and you’re headed for divorce, here are ten steps to take.

5 Divorce Predictors and How to Overcome Them

No marriage is doomed to fail. But there are proven factors that can raise the chance that you'll divorce. Find out what they are and how to beat the odds.

5 Benefits of Working With a Divorce Coach

The emotional and practical upheaval of ending a marriage can be tricky to navigate alone. A divorce coach guides you through the divorce process in ways that can help you make the best decisions for you and your family.

The Walkaway Wife Syndrome

It's well-documented that women initiate divorce more than men. But why are husbands sometimes blindsided by a wife's sudden desire to end a marriage?

The 5 Stages of Divorce Grief

Grieving the loss of a spouse after a divorce is normal. In fact, divorce is sometimes called a "social death." Learn about the 5 stages of divorce grief and how to know when to get help to work through them.

Top Tips for Surviving Your Divorce With a Narcissist

How to deal with this difficult personality type during a divorce.

How to Hire a Family Law Attorney

Handling a divorce, custody dispute, or adoption? Learn when legal representation might help—and when you may be able to manage a family law matter on your own.

Top 10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Divorce Attorney

Choosing the right divorce lawyer isn’t just about who picks up the phone first—it’s about finding someone with the right expertise for your unique case. Here's what to ask before you commit.

Divorce Decree vs. Divorce Certificate: What's the Difference?

Divorce decrees are not the same as divorce certificates. Find out when you might need a copy of your divorce decree instead of your divorce certificate.

How to Get a Copy of a Divorce Decree

Learn more about the steps you can take to obtain a copy of your divorce decree.